Working Title: Communications Director
Job Class: Communications Manager 1
Agency: Human Rights Dept
Job ID : 89451
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 : 10/08/2025
Closing Date : 10/28/2025
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Human Rights Dept / Human Rights-Managerial
Division/Unit : Leadership/Cont Improvement
Work Shift/Work Hours : Days
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 (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : 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.
The vision of the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) is to create a world where everyone can live with dignity and joy, free from discrimination. As the Communications Director, with a small team of staff, you will lead the development and execution of strategic communications, public relations, and marketing efforts that advance this vision. In this role, you'll serve as an agency leader building relationships across divisions, translating complex work into clear and compelling messages, and guiding how MDHR communicates internally and with the public. Success in this position requires strong emotional intelligence and an asset-based approach to storytelling that strengthens the agency's reputation, protects Minnesota's civil rights law, and builds a Minnesota that is free from discrimination.
Hybrid Work Environment
This position is eligible for up to a 50% hybrid telework arrangement. With a telework agreement, onsite attendance will be required for team meetings or as requested by management to meet business needs. Completion of a telework agreement will be required. Please review the Telework Policy (https://mn.gov/mmb-stat/policies/1422-telework.pdf) for details.
Minimum Qualifications
A cover letter is required as part of your application. Please ensure your cover letter highlights your relevant experience, your interest in this position at MDHR, and your approach to communications.
Four (4) years of experience in communications or public relations demonstrating leadership in strategy development, messaging, and media relations.
Leadership experience can include experience as a supervisor, lead worker, team lead, project lead, or formal leadership program. A bachelor's degree in Mass Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing or a closely related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience. An advanced degree in these fields may substitute for up to eighteen (18) months of experience.
Candidates meeting the above experience qualification will be further evaluated on:
Knowledge of communications planning, media relations, and crisis communications principles and practices.
Writing, editing, and verbal communication skills to craft messaging that translates technical and culturally sensitive information into clear, compelling content across a variety of media channels for diverse audiences.
Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with media, legislators, and/or attorneys, with strong awareness of political dynamics.
Ability to manage multiple projects and relationships in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and adapt to change.
Ability to motivate others and work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders (including executive leadership) in high pressure and shifting environments.
Alignment with the Department's vision, mission, and values and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or higher in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public affairs, or a related field.
Experience leading communications for a government agency, nonprofit, or mission-driven organization.
Experience serving as an organizational spokesperson and managing high-profile or crisis communications.
Experience advising executives or senior leaders on communications strategies and message development.
Experience directing, motivating, and evaluating staff as a direct supervisor or manager.
Knowledge of the Minnesota Human Rights Act, civil rights laws, or related legal and policy frameworks.
Knowledge or experience with State accessibility standards.
Proficiency with communications tools and platforms, including content management systems, analytics tools, and social media management applications.
Additional Requirements
Successful applicants must pass employment reference checks prior to employment. A written assessment or work sample may be part of the interview process.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.
Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Please indicate what assistance is needed.