Public Affairs Specialist - Job ID 61847
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Job Summary
This position was previously announced 12/30/2022 - 1/19/2023. If you already applied to this job, you are still under consideration and do not need to reapply.
As a public affairs specialist, this position will work with leadership and staff to recognize internal and external communications, outreach, and engagement opportunities, and define and execute appropriate strategies to support them. The position will develop and execute proactive media strategies, including media and outreach events with key stakeholder groups and media representatives who serve diverse and underrepresented communities to support MPCA initiatives and engagement opportunities. The incumbent will be responsible for activities ranging from developing messages and crafting communication materials to preparing speakers and events targeting various audiences, leveraging traditional and new media, and assessing the impact of
communication tactics.
The incumbent will serve as liaison with the MPCA Commissioner’s Office, responsible for writing official remarks for the commissioner and deputy/assistant commissioners, as well as supporting events the commissioner(s) may attend. This includes writing and preparing commissioners’ briefing documents and coordinating with program staff on content development as
necessary. Working with the government relations team, this position will develop message frameworks for MPCA policy recommendations and coordinate the development of communications materials for legislative initiatives. The incumbent will help to develop proactive campaigns and activities designed to raise the visibility of legislative proposals.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must clearly demonstrate the following qualifications:
Three (3) years of professional experience in supporting strategic communications efforts in order to advance company or organization initiatives. This experience must include building communications plans, defining and clarifying communications challenges, managing multi-faceted communications assignments, and managing public images and messages.
**A bachelor’s degree in a liberal art, including but not limited to communications, journalism, marketing, political science, public relations or directly related field may substitute for a year of experience.**
Advanced professional writing skills (including Associated Press style) and experience drafting sound, credible documents (i.e. memos, news releases, bylines, backgrounders, op-ed pieces, brochures and collateral materials).
Experience in public relations, issues management, public affairs, or public policy.
Experience conducting active outreach to news media and media influencers, including addressing inaccuracies and misinformation. This includes effective public speaking, facilitation, and moderating skills.
Ability to effectively and confidently persuade, present, and champion recommendations and objectives.
Human relation and communication skills sufficient to collaborate, work effectively, and create understanding within with a wide range of clientele, partners, and interested parties.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience organizing and executing public events and activities with multiple stakeholders and deliverables.
Demonstrated success building relationships with media representing diverse and underrepresented groups.
Strong knowledge of political process and/or experience working in a political environment.
Understanding of risk communication and crisis communication strategies.
Ability to consult with programs and identify which, among a broad range of communication strategies, would best suit the program’s needs.
Additional Requirements
This position requires successful completion of the following:
Application materials must include links to two work samples. Candidates selected for in-person interviews will also be required to compile a writing exercise AND
A driver’s license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver’s license AND a satisfactory DL check. Requires a Class D Driver's License: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination weight does not exceed 26,000 pounds.