Communications Manager - Communications Specialist 3

Position Information Title: Communications Manager – Communications Specialist 3 Job ID: 94603 Location: St. Paul, Minnesota Salary: $32.40–$47.76 hourly; $67,651–$99,722 annually Telework Eligible: Yes (up to 50%) Work Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday (Day Shift) Overview Help shape the conversation around one of Minnesota’s most important public policy challenges: health care affordability. The Communications Specialist will lead strategic communications efforts for the Minnesota Department of Health’s Center for Health Care Affordability, translating complex research and policy issues into clear, compelling messages that inform policymakers, stakeholders, the media, and the public. Responsibilities Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic communications plan that promotes the Center’s priorities, research, policy initiatives, and stakeholder engagement efforts. Create and manage high‑quality communications content across multiple platforms, including websites, social media, newsletters, reports, presentations, and other public‑facing materials. Translate complex health policy, economic, and research information into accessible, audience‑focused communications for policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. Serve as trusted communications advisor to Center leadership, providing counsel on messaging, positioning, media interactions, legislative briefings, stakeholder meetings, and public presentations. Build public awareness and trust by ensuring communications are accurate, transparent, timely, and aligned with agency goals while navigating complex and high‑profile policy issues. Telework & Travel Position is eligible for up to 50% telework for applicants residing in Minnesota or within 50 miles of the assigned work location. Travel is required up to 10% of the time. Minimum Qualifications Three (3) years of experience in communications or public relations, including at least two-thirds of the following: Experience writing and editing content for multiple audiences and formats, such as websites, newsletters, reports, presentations, social media, or media materials. Experience managing digital communications channels, such as websites, social media platforms, email communications, or online publications. Experience developing communication materials for executive leaders, policymakers, stakeholders, or external partners. Educational equivalencies: Associate – 6 months, Bachelor – 12 months, Master – 18 months, PhD – 24 months for professional experience. Experience supporting public‑facing initiatives that required strategic messaging, stakeholder engagement, or public outreach. Experience using data, research findings, or analytics to develop communications products or inform communications strategies. Experience creating communications strategies and leading projects involving multiple partners, colleagues, teams, or stakeholders. Experience anticipating issues in communication strategies and developing communication materials. Experience translating technical concepts into clear communications for different audiences. Preferred Qualifications Experience communicating topics related to health care, health policy, public health, health economics, insurance, or a related field. Experience developing communications related to public policy initiatives, legislative issues, or government programs under tight timelines. Demonstrated experience preparing executives or senior leaders for media interviews, legislative briefings, stakeholder meetings, or public presentations. Experience creating visual communications products, including presentations, infographics, dashboards, charts, or other data visualizations. Knowledge and experience measuring and evaluating communication effectiveness and using results to improve future communications efforts. Additional Requirements Successful completion of a background check and employment reference check. No driver’s license required, but travel is required and candidates must accommodate travel needs. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States; no E‑Verify participation or H‑1B sponsorship. Benefits Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans, including fertility and diabetes care, and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income after at least three years of service Employer‑paid life insurance Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that support physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being Equal Opportunity Statement Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. The state encourages applicants who reflect the diversity of the community, including Indigenous communities, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, people with disabilities, women, veterans, and individuals from other underrepresented groups to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr