Public Affairs Specialist
Job Summary
As a public affairs specialist, this position will develop and execute internal and external communications strategies to support a wide range of environmental issues with specific focus on Minnesota Pollution Control Agency priorities, including climate change. As a member of the communications and outreach team, this individual will write, edit, and distribute messaging and materials for use in digital and print platforms, and develop communications materials to support media and outreach events with key stakeholder groups.
Working with the agency’s government relations team, this position will develop message frameworks for MPCA policy recommendations and coordinate the development of communications materials for legislative initiatives. The position will also serve as liaison with the commissioner’s office, writing official remarks for members of the commissioner’s office, preparing presentations, and staffing events the commissioner and other senior leaders may attend.
Minimum Qualifications:
Candidates must clearly demonstrate the following qualifications:
- Two (2) years of professional experience in media relations or three (3) years of paraprofessional experience supporting media relations efforts. Experience must include drafting a wide range of written materials (including proactive messaging and materials), developing and maintaining effective relationships with potential partners and spokespeople, and coordinating media events.
- **A bachelor’s degree in a liberal art, including but not limited to communications, journalism, marketing, political science, public relations or directly related field may substitute for a year of experience.**
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills, with ability to distill complex topics into clear and concise analyses.
- Ability to integrate, develop, and execute a communication plan, craft messages, content strategies, and writing in a variety of platforms.
- Accomplished project management skills to independently and effectively manage multiple projects at a time in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Human relation and communications skills sufficient to collaborate, work effectively and create understanding within a wide-range of stakeholders, partners, and interest parties.
Preferred Qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in a liberal arts, including but not limited to communications, journalism, marketing, political science, public relations or directly related field.
- Knowledge of political process and/or experience working in a political environment.
- Experience working with rural communities and/or agricultural issues.
- Experience creating and executing media events with various stakeholders, as well as securing media coverage.
- Ability to consult with programs and identify which, among a broad range of communication strategies, would best suit the program’s needs.
Why Work For Us
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 pollution does not have a disproportionate impact on any groups of people.
The State of Minnesota offers a comprehensive benefits package including low cost medical and dental insurance, employer paid life insurance, short and long-term disability, pre-tax flexible spending accounts, retirement plan, tax deferred compensation, generous vacation and sick leave, and 11 paid holidays each year. We emphasize work-life balance, and strive to have an inclusive workplace for everyone.