Invasive Species Communications Specialist - Communications Specialist 2

Overview The Department of Natural Resources, Ecological and Water Resources Division, is seeking to fill one full-time, unlimited Invasive Species Communications Specialist - Communications Specialist 2, located at the Central Office in Saint Paul, Minnesota. This position develops, plans, implements, and coordinates a strategic invasive species communication, information, and outreach program under the direction of the Invasive Species Unit Supervisor and in collaboration with the statewide Invasive Species Program and Ecological and Water Resources Division Communications personnel. This role provides coordination, leadership, strategic planning, and guidance on invasive species communications to advance program goals of preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species and effectively managing their impacts. Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota • Telework eligible: Yes, Hybrid up to 50% • Work hours: Day Shift • Travel: Occasional Salary: $29.25 - $42.94 hourly; $61,074 - $89,658 annually Job ID: 92776 • Working Title: Invasive Species Communications Specialist • Job Class: Communications Specialist 2 Agency: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources • Division/Unit: Ecological and Water Resources Application: Open to all qualified job seekers. Closing date: 04/15/2026. Date posted: 03/26/2026. This position requires a valid Class D driver’s license with a clear driving record and may require travel to in-person meetings and DNR events, including the State Fair. The position may include telework and a requirement to complete an annual telework agreement. Responsibilities Develop, direct, and maintain strategic communications that support Department, Division, and Program priorities. Coordinate and implement invasive species outreach and communications statewide. Develop invasive species communications, messaging, and materials to reach targeted audiences through various media and in-person events, aligned with the overall communications strategy. Coordinate within the statewide Invasive Species Program to ensure consistency and excellence in programmatic communications. This position will require some travel to attend in-person meetings and DNR events, including in-state events such as the State Fair. Minimum Qualifications Two (2) years of professional-level experience in communications, marketing, journalism, or outreach. Experience in planning, writing, and editing content for news releases, web, social media, newsletters, public service announcements for radio and television, radio actualities, and/or scripts for information or education productions. Knowledge of strategic communications principles, practices, and techniques related to planning, creating, editing, and distributing communications deliverables. Knowledge of editorial best practices and style sufficient to apply plain language to all written communications. Project management and facilitation skills sufficient to manage complex communications planning efforts. Excellent oral and written communication skills to represent the program and Division professionally. Collaborative communications and human-relations skills to work with internal and external stakeholders and agency leadership. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills for addressing complex communications and public relations challenges. Proficiency with office technology systems (e.g., Microsoft Office), data management systems, and internet applications to assemble, analyze, and synthesize information from data sources. Note: This section includes one or more statements about telework eligibility and travel expectations; see the job posting for full details. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, media, or closely related field. Four (4) years of professional-level experience in communications, marketing, journalism, or outreach. Experience with writing and/or editing content about natural resource issues and outdoor recreation. Experience with audience development for websites, newsletters, and social media. Knowledge of invasive species sufficient to produce content that supports prevention and management and to prioritize outreach to new audiences and pathways. Knowledge of community-based social marketing or similar behavior-change approaches. Experience with accessible content creation (web, documents, video, audio) for people with disabilities. Experience collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, including media, partners, subject-matter experts, and customers. Additional Requirements Unrestricted Class D driver’s license with a clear driving record. Ability to meet physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations. Eligibility to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status. Background check required, with components including Conflict of Interest Review, Criminal History Check, Education Verification, Employment Reference/Records Check, and License/Certification Verification. Application Instructions Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. For questions about applying, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For more information about the application process, visit http://www.mn.gov/careers. Contact: For questions about this position, contact Kelly Pennington at kelly.pennington@state.mn.us or 651-245-0859. For accommodations in the application process, contact ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us. To be considered as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID, Working Title, and your Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Joshua Swanson at josh.t.swanson@state.mn.us. Working together to improve the state we love. Benefits As an employee, you’ll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to support your well-being. Your benefits may include: Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid parental leave Pension plan Employer-paid life insurance Short-term and long-term disability insurance Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources to support physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Professional development and support: training, classes, and opportunities for growth; some positions may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support including resources for mental health, finances, and more. Equal Opportunity Employer: Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity employers and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. Applicants With Disabilities: Minnesota state agencies provide reasonable accommodations. If you need assistance, contact Careers Help Desk. #J-18808-Ljbffr