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Minnesota Careers

Regional Information Officer / Communications Specialist 2

Minnesota Careers, New Ulm, MN, United States

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At the DNR, we are committed to the conservation and management of the state's natural resources for outdoor recreation, economic development, and a sustainable quality of life. Apply with us and find your path.

Job Details

Working Title: Regional Information Officer
Job Class: Communications Specialist 2
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

  • Job ID: 84271
  • Location: New Ulm
  • Telework Eligible: Yes
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 02/21/2025
  • Closing Date: 03/13/2025
  • Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
  • Division/Unit: Operation Services Division / OCO Region 4
  • Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
  • Days of Work: Monday - Friday
  • Travel Required: Yes
  • Salary Range: $28.82 - $42.31 / hourly; $60,176 - $88,343 / annually
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
  • FLSA Status: Nonexempt
  • Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking to fill one (1) Regional Information Officer in New Ulm, MN.

This position exists to lead, develop, and execute a proactive regional communication and outreach program with cross-divisional and statewide impact and implications. This position is under the administrative direction of the OSD regional manager with program guidance from the assistant communications director and the regional director. This position coordinates agency-wide, cross-divisional communication initiatives which are regionally based but with statewide impact. This position provides leadership, strategic direction and overall guidance on communications, public relations, and outreach issues for the Regional Management Team (RMT).

This position will train for and serve when assigned as member of the Regional Incident Support Team (RIST) or an assigned Incident Management Team (IMT) as the Public Information Officer so that emergency operations are supported and facilitated in collecting, communicating, and reporting incident information to the appropriate administrative leadership and general public. The position will also serve as the regional communications coordinator in crisis situations as appropriate or assigned.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Develop internal and external media content for multiple communication platforms and regional, divisional, and agency-wide customers that communicates agency priorities and enhances the end users' experience through informational and public relations efforts.
  • Develop and execute regional communication and outreach efforts that have regional and statewide impact and that support DNR's strategies and initiatives. Lead statewide communications efforts for events and initiatives that originate or take place in the region.
  • Serve as the regional communication authority; provide media training and policy guidance for agency staff and the regional director in support of agency communication needs.
This position may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete a telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis for meetings, training, onboarding, or as needed by supervisor.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications
  • Two (2) years of professional level experience in communications, marketing, journalism, and outreach.
    • A bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or a closely related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
  • Experience in lead work sufficient to provide media training and policy guidance and motivate staff.
  • Experience in public relations, sufficient to serve as the media spokesperson regarding crisis communications and sensitive issue management.
  • Experience with providing communications in a public environment, including working with internal and external stakeholders, government and non-government partners, or local officials.
  • Knowledge of journalistic principles, including AP style proficiency sufficient to write compelling media releases.
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills sufficient to address complex communications and public relations challenges.
  • Photography, and videography skills sufficient to create and edit social media posts and media visuals.
  • Audio production skills sufficient to create radio actualities and assist in podcast creation.
  • Organizational and time management skills sufficient to delegate and manage multiple projects.
  • Project management and facilitation skills sufficient to manage complex communications planning efforts.
  • Ability to write comprehensive, multi-faceted communications plans.
Preferred Qualifications
  • A bachelors degree in communications, marketing, journalism or closely related field.
  • Knowledge of natural resources and outdoor recreation issues and management.
  • Knowledge of the legislative process and political landscape.
  • Knowledge of DNR goals, policies and procedures sufficient to develop communication plans and programs.
Additional Requirements

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record.

Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status).

It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
  • Conflict of Interest Review
  • Criminal History Check
  • Education Verification
  • Employment Reference / Records Check
  • License / Certification Verification
Application Details

How to Apply

Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers .

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Christina Anderley at christina.anderley@state.mn.us or 507-444-1513 .

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us . To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Rebecca McMillen at rebecca.mcmillen@state.mn.us .

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth
Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • 12 paid holidays each year
  • Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
    • Fertility care, including IVF
    • Diabetes care
    • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
  • 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
  • Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
  • Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
  • Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
  • Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Support to help you reach your career goals:
  • Training, classes, and professional development
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:
  • A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
  • Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
  • Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care


Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.