Communications specialist

This position determines priorities and objectives for the management of day-to-day media relations, crisis communications and communications issues for the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) including the BCA’s Force Investigations Unit, which investigates officer-involved use-of-force incidents in Minnesota upon the request of a local jurisdiction.  

As a strategic communications expert, this role involves developing messages, providing information on public safety issues and services to the public, and interacting with state, national, and international media on sensitive or life-or-death issues. The position also serves as a senior communications advisor to assigned divisions and programs, and to DPS as a whole when needed.

 The position will be responsible for crisis communications as well as creating, executing and maintaining media and communications strategies and tactics for DPS. The position exists to ensure that media and communications strategies enhance the reputation of assigned divisions and programs, mitigate the impact of critical issues, and informs the public of critical information from assigned divisions.

 The position determines priorities and objectives and manages strategic oversight and direction for assigned divisions and programs to promote, support and enhance the image, goals, mission and vision of DPS. This position also will plan and implement complex communication plans ensuring efforts are effective and reach almost every Minnesotan.

 The position is responsible for managing media and communications strategies and recommending the use of social media and digital platforms to maximize the reach of assigned divisions and programs messaging. This position works closely with law enforcement partners across Minnesota as well as the DPS communications director, deputy communications director and division leadership.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

**To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month, day and year for each job held.**

• Three years of professional experience in strategic communication planning and crisis communications
• Strong writing skills and an understanding of accepted journalistic and AP style
• An understanding of traditional and social media including both earned and paid media
• Knowledge of photography, videography and graphics
• Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds 

*A Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, English or another related field may substitute for 1 year of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree
• Experience recommending or implementing communications plans for community engagement and outreach
• Professional experience in managing and writing for multiple social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X
• Strong research skills and ability to translate complicated topics or research into easy-to-understand and engaging content

Physical Requirements

 Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file folders and small tools. May need to maintain a stationary position for long periods of time while carrying out job duties.

Additional Requirements

It is the policy of the Department of Public Safety that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment, includes the following components:

1) Criminal history

2) Reference check

3) Drug screen 

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 job information line 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 Dama Abuta at dama.abuta@state.mn.us or 651-201-7387.

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 Dama Abuta at dama.abuta@state.mn.us.

About Public Safety Dept 

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,200 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

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.