Working Title: Director of Workforce Development and Legislative Liaison
Job Class: State Program Administrator, Coordinator
Agency: Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation
Job ID : 92759
Location : Eveleth
Telework Eligible : Yes, please see details in Job Summary
Full/Part Time : Full-Time
Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 03/13/2026
Closing Date : 04/06/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation - MAPE
Division/Unit : IRRRB Eveleth / Development
Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift; 8:00am - 4:30pm
Days of Work : Monday - Friday
Travel Required : Yes - Up to 25% of the time
Salary Range: $37.26 - $55.42 / hourly; $77,798 - $115,716 / annually
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees - MAPE
FLSA Status : Exempt - Administrative
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 Director of Regional Workforce Development and Legislative Liaison position contains a hybrid of duties in the legislative and workforce development areas. This position works in partnership with Minnesota North College to develop, manage and coordinate regional workforce development initiatives that have a significant impact on education and economic development in northeastern Minnesota. This position also provides guidance and support to the Business Development and Community Development teams on all matters related to workforce development.
Working under the direction of the Commissioner, the incumbent supports and represents the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR) on legislative and agency related policy matters. Serves as the primary contact on all legislative matters and guides the agency's staff on legislative relations. Leads and coordinates the development of agency legislative proposals, initiatives and strategies consistent with agency goals/priorities and with strategic priorities established by the Governor's Office, other state agencies and external agency partners. Supports Minnesota North College's workforce development academic programs and serves as a key legislative and policy liaison in support of the College's interests.
The position has a contributory impact on the IRRR's budget of approximately $70 million through proper execution of position responsibilities.
This position is located at our Eveleth office, with travel as needed to St. Paul during legislative sessions and beyond, and to Minnesota North College campuses as needed.
This position may be eligible for a mixture of in-office and telework. If approved for telework, incumbent may telework two (2) days per week and will be required to complete a telework agreement.
The following qualifications are required of all applicants seeking consideration for this position. Only applicants whose application materials clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for the position.
To facilitate proper credit, please ensure that your resume clearly indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
Minimum Qualifications
Four* (4) years of professional experience which includes advising management regarding proposed legislation, policies, and programs.
*Bachelor's degree in public administration, communications, political science or other closely related field as determined by the agency can substitute one (1) year of experience; Master's degree substitutes for eighteen (18) months of experience.
Knowledge of workforce development programs and strategies.
Knowledge of and ability to accurately interpret and communicate the policies, procedures and statutes governing the agency.
Thorough knowledge of the overall structure and operations of state government and the legislative and budget processes.
Possess the skill to analyze complex, difficult, and technical issues affecting IRRR programs and initiatives as well as federal and state policies.
Exceptional strong, persuasive oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally both verbally and in writing.
Interpersonal skills and abilities to collaborate and work cooperatively and effectively with both private and public entities, groups and organizations.
Experience working with a diverse clientele including the commitment to equity and diversity in the work environment.
Valid MN Driver's License.
Preferred Qualifications
An understanding of higher education institutions and the ability to interact with college administrators and faculty.
Experience in resolving or coordinating the resolution of a variety of problems involving the most critical issues affecting legislative policies.
Sensitivity to the political atmosphere with skill to balance the need for responsible legislative policy development.
Broad working knowledge of Minnesota state government contract and grant requirements and processes, and capital project and asset preservation budgeting, planning and implementation.
Knowledge of governmental business practices and experience dealing with administrative policies and procedures.
Additional Requirements
This position requires successful completion of the following:
Ability to transport oneself to external meetings or obligations.
It is the policy of the Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation all employees submit to an employment and criminal background check prior to employment.
In accordance with the Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation's Fleet Safety Program, employees driving on agency business who use a rental or state vehicle shall be required to follow Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation's vehicle use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check.
If approved for telework, the employee will be required to complete a telework agreement. This is subject to change with notice. Telework eligible for applicants that reside in Minnesota.
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.
