Communications Manager 1

Job DetailsWorking Title: Media & Public Affairs DirectorJob Class: Communications Manager 1Agency: Commerce DepartmentJob ID: 90772Location: St. PaulTelework Eligible: YesFull/Part Time: Full-TimeRegular/Temporary: UnlimitedWho May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekersDate Posted: 12/11/2025Closing Date: 01/02/2026Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Commerce DeptDivision/Unit: CommunicationsWork Shift/Work Hours: Day ShiftDays of Work: Monday - FridayTravel Required: Yes (up to 15% within Minnesota)Salary Range: $ $62.41 / hourly; $90,577 - $130,312 / annuallyClassified Status: ClassifiedBargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Manager/UnrepDesignated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: YesThe 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 SummaryHybrid work schedule available, up to 50% telework depending on business needs. Telework can be outside of the state of Minnesota if the candidate lives in a state bordering Minnesota and lives 50 miles or less from the primary work location. Primary work location will be the Golden Rule Building in St Paul.Internal candidates should contact the Human Resources Representative listed on the job posting with questionsThe Media & Public Affairs Director leads proactive communications strategy for the Minnesota Department of Commerce, in close collaboration with the Communications Director, Chief of Staff, and Commissioner. Operating with a high level of autonomy, this position manages major media relations, public affairs, and consumer engagement efforts, while aligning communications plans with agency priorities and strategic goals.QualificationsMinimum Qualifications4 years of strategic, high-level management, and leadership experience that includes:Communication and Public Relations experience at the state, Tribal, federal, or local government, or equivalent private sector experience.Demonstrated supervisory or leadership experience, organizational and interpersonal skills to direct, develop and engage staff.Leadership experience can include experience as a supervisor, lead worker, team lead, project lead, or completion of a State of Minnesota leadership program (e.g., ELI or SLI) or comparable leadership program.A bachelor's degree in the areas of Mass Communications, Journalism or Public Relations or a closely related field can be substituted for one (1) year of experience.An advanced degree in Mass Communications, Journalism or Public Relations or closely related field can be substituted for eighteen (18) months of experience.Applicants who meet the above requirement will be further evaluated on:Ability to plan and implement external communication campaigns, media relations activities and events.Strong public relations and interpersonal skills to develop internal and external relationships with collaborators, key stakeholders and news media.Strong project management skills, ability to effectively use Asana or other project management system.Excellent skills in writing and editing, with advanced skills in developing press releases and media materials.Tech savvy, with ability to learn and use new technology and communication tools, such as GovDelivery, Adobe or other software.Proficiency in creating, posting and sharing creative, engaging social media content for an organization, and assessing analytics, for Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.Preferred QualificationsMore than four (4) years of experience in journalism and public relations.Experience in government service.Extensive knowledge of and experience working with in a regulatory environment.Physical RequirementsRequires occasional moving of articles such as boxes, accounting records, laptop computer, and portable printerAdditional RequirementsJob offer is contingent upon passing reference checks to verify job-related credentials, a criminal background check and drivers' license check prior to appointment.Application DetailsHow to ApplySelect "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at or email For additional information about the application process, go to ContactIf you have questions about this position, contact Amy Uhlendorf at or 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 Amy Uhlendorf at About Commerce DepartmentCommerce protects the public interest through a broad range of regulations and programs. We oversee more than 40 industry areas in Minnesota and license about 250,000 professionalsand businesses to ensure that their services and products are fair, accessible and comply with state laws.Working together to improve the state we love.What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?A sense of purpose in their workConnection with their coworkers and communitiesOpportunities for personal and professional growthBenefitsAs 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 leave12 paid holidays each yearLow-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plansFertility care, including IVFDiabetes careDental and orthodontic care for adults and children6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted childrenPension 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 deathShort-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injuryTax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent careResources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-beingSupport to help you reach your career goals:Training, classes, and professional developmentTuition 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 )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 performanceCommon sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issuesDaily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder carePrograms, 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 EMPLOYERSMinnesota 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 DISABILITIESMinnesota 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 or email and let us know the support you need.