Lead Digital Specialist for External Communications - Communications Specialist

Working Title: Lead Digital Specialist for External Communications Job Class: Communications Specialist 3 Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources Job ID: 91828 Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes; hybrid Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 03/11/2026 Closing Date: 03/24/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources Division/Unit: Operations Services / OSD OCO Strategic Comms Work Shift/Work Hours: Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes; occasional Salary Range: $32.40 - $47.76 / hourly; $67,651 - $99,723 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Non-exempt Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes 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 is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by offering comprehensive benefits, support resources, and training opportunities. The DNR seeks a Lead Digital Specialist for External Communications to manage the agency’s main digital platforms—website, mass email system, and public engagement portal. The specialist will lead governance, strategy, and content creation, provide training to staff, and collaborate with MNIT and communications partners to align digital initiatives with the Department’s mission. Responsibilities Collaborate with MNIT, Communications, and Outreach staff to develop a comprehensive agency‑wide web strategy. Lead and implement web governance by planning content priorities and creating policies that incorporate SEO, plain language, and accessibility best practices. Oversee the mass email system (GovDelivery), advise administrators on best practices, and explore opportunities to expand customer email lists in compliance with state privacy rules. Ensure division and regional staff receive the information, tools, and training needed to engage with the public. Collect, review, and analyze data and metrics while maintaining website accessibility and compliance. Create and implement communications plans, strategies, and tactics for DNR initiatives, supporting crisis communications as needed. Telework may be available up to 50% of the time. The role requires travel to OSD meetings, OCO off‑site events, and state events such as the State Fair and Governor’s fishing or pheasant hunting openings. Minimum Qualifications Three (3) years of professional experience in external digital communications strategy and implementation, with knowledge of website governance best practices and AP style writing. Skills with industry‑standard content management systems (Drupal, WordPress, Kentico, etc.) to create and update web assets. Project management experience, including planning and resource negotiation to ensure successful project completion. Experience gathering information and producing written deliverables from that information. Knowledge of communications best practices—writing, editing, planning, KPI setting, and reporting. Proficiency with office technology (e.g., Microsoft 365) and data management tools for analytics and synthesis. Strong interpersonal skills for collaboration and relationship building with diverse stakeholders, including state and agency leadership. Ability to analyze metrics and translate findings into actionable strategies and tactics. Capability to facilitate large groups and lead complex projects. Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or a related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or related field. Experience working in a government or complex, mid‑to‑large organization (3,000–5,000 employees). Proven ability to develop a comprehensive web strategy for an agency. Experience creating and enforcing governance policies for communication platforms. Experience with mass email system strategies and tactics. Experience optimizing websites and producing accessible electronic documents, multimedia, and educational content. Additional Requirements Unrestricted Class D driver’s license with a clean record. Physical ability to meet job conditions, with or without accommodations. Verification of identity and eligibility to work in the United States, meeting federal requirements. Background check including conflict of interest review, criminal history, education verification, employment/records, and licensing checks. How To Apply Choose “Apply for Job” at the top of the page. For questions, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Additional application details: MN Careers . Contact: Erik Evans, erik.evans@state.mn.us , 651‑259‑5342. ADA Coordinator: ADA.DNR@state.mn.us; Connect 700 Program: Tava Cayo, tava.cayo@state.mn.us . Benefits Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays per year Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans (including fertility, diabetes, and orthodontic care) 6‑week paid parental leave for newborn or adopted children Pension plan after at least three years of service Employer‑paid life insurance Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance Tax‑free health, dental, and dependent care expense accounts Resources supporting physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being Career Development & Support Training, classes, and professional development programs Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility for some positions Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for life‑work support, covering mental health, relationships, grief, finances, legal issues, and daily living services Equal Opportunity Employer Minnesota state agencies are equal‑opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers committed to a workforce reflecting diversity, including people of color, Indigenous communities, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities. Applicants With Disabilities Reasonable accommodations are available. Contact the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email careers@state.mn.us for assistance. #J-18808-Ljbffr