Public Information Officer - Communications Specialist 3

Telework Eligible: Yes
Working Title: Public Information Officer
Job Class: Communications Specialist 3
Agency: Cannabis Management Office
Job ID: 97903
Location: St. Paul
Telework Eligible: Yes
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted: 10/28/2026
Closing Date: 11/12/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Cannabis Management Office
Division/Unit: Cannabis Management Office-OCM / Communications Staff
Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Travel Required: Yes - Up to 10%
Salary Range: $32.97 - $48.60 / hourly;
$68,841 - $101,476 / annually
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)
FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional.
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The 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.
The Public Information Officer (PIO) provides high-level communications strategy consultation and advice, as well as day-to-day coordination of various communications activities for the office. The position assists the Communications Director in the composition and administration of external media relations for the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), serving as a spokesperson when appropriate. The PIO is responsible for writing, developing and editing compelling content for use and distribution across the office’s various publications and channels. This position works closely with OCM leadership to strategically develop and execute communications activities, and media initiatives.
This position is located in St. Paul and may telework from home two days per week and is required to be in the office three days per week.
A Successful Incumbent Will Be Able To
Identify opportunities to strengthen and maintain positive relationships with internal and external audiences and key stakeholder groups
Plan and implement public information actions so the office’s constituents and audiences are proactively advised of OCM activities, educational events, emergencies, and other events.
Respond to requests for public information and prepare OCM staff for media interviews.
Provide communications counsel and support for legislative efforts.
Effectively and professionally represent the agency at public meetings and events on cannabis issues.
Minimum QualificationsTo facilitate proper years of service crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
Three (3) years of experience in strategic communications, public relations or journalism. A bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or a relevant field may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
Experience Must Clearly Demonstrate The Following
Experience developing and implementing strategic communications plans that align with organizational goals and effectively reach target audiences.
Experience producing clear, effective written and verbal communications for diverse audiences, including translating complex, technical, or regulatory information for public-facing materials such as newsletters, websites, reports, fact sheets or presentations.
Experience working with members of the news media and acting as an organization’s spokesperson.
Experience organizing press conferences or other media-related events.
Experience working with website content management systems to update and maintain engaging and relevant information for the public.
Ability to travel in-state for media and community engagement events hosted by or attend by the office (up to 10%).
In addition, applicants
must
submit a one-page cover letter to be considered for this position.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in strategic communications, marketing, journalism, public affairs, public relations or other relevant field.
Experience working in in a regulated industry or knowledge of Minnesota cannabis laws, regulations, and policies.
Bilingual in English and another language relevant to prominent Minnesota communities such as Spanish, Hmong, or Somali.
Knowledge of plain language standards and demonstrated ability to apply them in written communications to improve clarity and accessibility.
Experience applying Americans with Disabilities Act Title II standards and requirements, the Minnesota Government and Data Practices Act, and digital accessibility tools.
Experience applying equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility principles to develop culturally responsive messaging.
Additional RequirementsPlease include a one-page cover letter.
A Job Offer Will Be Contingent Upon Successfully Passing a Background Check. The Background Check May Consist Of The Following Components
SEMA4 records check (applies to current and former state employees only)
Employment reference check
Conflict of interest review
Criminal background check
The Office of Cannabis Management will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
About Cannabis Management OfficeThe Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is the primary regulatory office for the state's new and expanding cannabis industry (including the new adult-use market, the Medical Cannabis Program, and existing hemp-derived cannabinoid products). OCM is tasked with issuing business licenses, providing education and technical support to new businesses, administering grants to support community reinvestment and to organizations that will help farmers navigate the new industry and overseeing all aspects of Minnesota's cannabis industry. Join our team and become a part of OCM's mission to foster an equitable cannabis industry that prioritizes public health and safety, consumer confidence, and market integrity.
Working together to improve the state we love.What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
A sense of purpose in their work
Connection with their coworkers and communities
Opportunities for personal and professional growth
BenefitsAs 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 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 leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
Pension 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 death
Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals
Training, classes, and professional development
Tuition 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 studentaid.Gov)
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 performance
Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility variesPrograms, 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 View phone number on ca.hrm.tc or email View email address on ca.hrm.tc and let us know the support you need.
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