Job Description
Working Title: Assistant Director of Communications Job Class: Communications Manager 1 Agency: Pollution Control Agency - Job ID : 87334
- Location : St. Paul
- Telework Eligible : Yes
- Full/Part Time : Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
- Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted : 07/15/2025
- Closing Date : 08/04/2025
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-Managerial
- Division/Unit : Operations Division / Communications and Outreach Section
- Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
- Days of Work : Monday - Friday
- Travel Required : No
- Salary Range: $43.38 - $62.41 / hourly; $90,577 - $130,312 / annually
- Classified Status : Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union : 220 - Manager/Unrep
- FLSA Status : Exempt - Executive
- 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 As the Assistant Director of Communications at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), you will manage the operations for the agency's Communication and Outreach section and assist in the development and execution of the broad communications strategy for this regulatory agency. This individual oversees media relations, public affairs, crisis and issues communications, social media, creative, and internal communications programs that serve the agency's seven diverse operating divisions to ensure coordination and integration throughout the agency. The position must identify opportunities to raise the visibility of agency programs and priorities through proactive media relations, events, and other activities and serves as spokesperson for the agency on contentious issues. The incumbent will advise and mentor staff and develop communications plans. This position reports to the director of communications, and will work directly with the Commissioner's Office and other senior leaders, ensuring the agency's strategic communications programs align with the Governor's communications goals and the agency's vision and mission.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Two years managerial experience leading teams with experience in the strategic planning, implementation, and administration of an organization's communications program that includes oversight and expertise in several communication areas (i.e. media relations, social media, crisis and issues communications, visual communications, internal and external communications) OR
Five years of closely related professional-level experience as described above, of which supervisory or managerial experience is included.
Experience leading complex and multi-faceted teams in newsrooms or communications teams.
Experience in shaping and executing complex communications efforts in a deadline-driven, fast-paced environment.
Extensive media relations skills sufficient to quickly respond to often-difficult requests and proactively pitch stories to best tell the agency's story.
Extensive issues and crisis communications experience sufficient to manage actual and emerging issues with minimal direction.
Strong knowledge of political process and/or experience working in a political environment.
Experience in managing, leading, and/or developing staff sufficient to motivate, direct, and continuously improve their skills and abilities.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. 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.
Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree or advanced degree in journalism, strategic communications, or related field.
Certification in and/or demonstrated training with FEMA ICS structure.
Communications experience related to environmental programs.
Experience working in an organization with multiple locations and programs.
Experience working in a political environment and ability to manage complex and/or politically sensitive communications efforts while remaining calm and professional even under stressful circumstances.
Ability to create a diverse and inclusive working environment with internal and external parties.
Ability to share a clear vision and to think, plan and lead strategically.
Experience managing program budgets sufficient to ensure office goals are met and agency goals are supported.
Human relations skills sufficient to effectively interact with internal and external business partners, to create and maintain a positive, professional working environment for staff as well as positive image for external clients/citizens, to deliver decisions and information, and to resolve disagreements.
Exceptional writing and editing skills and demonstrated success in content strategy.
Ability to manage multiple relationships and projects concurrently in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment; a great degree of flexibility with the proven ability to adapt to change.
Additional Requirements Position duties may require travel, but driving is not a minimum qualification or essential function of this position. Employees who may drive for state business will need their driver's license checked prior to operating a state vehicle.
Those applicants that are determined qualified will be asked to submit two work samples. 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 .
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Patty Atchison at patty.atchison@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 Patty Atchison at patty.atchison@state.mn.us .
About Pollution Control Agency Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.
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
- Tuition reimbursement
- 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.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, Temporary work, Part time, Work at office, Local area, Remote work, Visa sponsorship, Work visa, Flexible hours, Shift work, Day shift, Monday to Friday,