State of Minnesota
Director of Legislation and External Affairs / State Program Administrator Manag
State of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States, 55199
Director of Legislation and External Affairs / State Program Administrator Manager
Join to apply for the
Director of Legislation and External Affairs / State Program Administrator Manager
role at
State of Minnesota
Working Title Director of Legislation and External Affairs
Job Class State Program Administrator Manager
Agency Children Youth & Families Department
Job Details
Job ID: 90618
Location: St. Paul
Telework Eligible: Yes
Full/Part Time: Full Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers. This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 12/11/25. To be considered a bidder, you must be a permanent, non‑probationary DCYF employee in the same job classification as the position posted.
Date Posted: 12/04/2025
Closing Date: 12/26/2025
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: DCYF / Managerial
Division/Unit: DCYF / Government Relations
Work Shift: Day Shift
Work Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Travel Required: Yes, 5%
Salary Range: $40.26 - $58.20 per hour; $84,062 - $121,521 per year
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Manager/Unrep
FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DCYF does not participate in E‑Verify.
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.
Telework and Flexibility
Telework (within Minnesota or neighboring states) and flexible hours options are available.
Responsibilities
Direct the legislative agenda for assigned administration(s) and division(s).
Serve as an advisor to leadership in administration(s) and division(s) related to government relations practices and strategies.
Develop and implement government relations strategies.
Lead major policy change initiatives.
Provide leadership and mentoring for division‑level staff and legislative coordinators/leads, directing their work to develop strategic policy and budget proposals.
Manage and improve stakeholder relations.
Represent the policy and budget priorities for assigned administration(s) and division(s) with external parties.
Control and direct business operations of DCYF.
Make decisions and issue directions to other employees such as policy leaders, Assistant Commissioners, and others.
Minimum Qualifications
Five (5) years of advocacy or lobbying experience at the state or federal level, with at least 3 years of experience with the Minnesota Legislature.
This experience is a prerequisite. Candidates who meet it will be further evaluated on the following during the interview process:
Significant testimony before legislative bodies, including prepared and impromptu presentations.
Knowledge of human services concepts, programs, roles, and functions of state government, as well as of the county and local delivery system.
Clear understanding of the legislative process and timelines in Minnesota.
Demonstrated high‑quality writing skills through preparation of legislation, fact sheets, talking points, briefing packets, legislative reports, presentations, and correspondence.
Effective project management skills to lead policy staff and leadership through complex processes such as proposal development, hearing preparation, and report drafting.
Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment that may include long and irregular hours, particularly during the legislative session.
Preferred Qualifications
A master’s degree in public administration, public policy, or a law degree.
Experience working in a legislative capacity for a state agency or the legislature.
Experience working effectively with others from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Additional Requirements
A successful background investigation prior to employment, which may include reference check, criminal background check, fingerprinting, driver’s license check, and personnel file review.
Additional assessment may be required during the interview process.
How to Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact If you have questions about the position, contact Jennifer Sommerfield at Jennifer.Sommerfield@state.mn.us.
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title, and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Luis Hernandez‑Cuate at luis.hernandez‑cuate@state.mn.us.
If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Children, Youth and Families ADA Coordinator at 651‑431‑4945 or DCYF ADA at ada.dcyf@state.mn.us.
Benefits As 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
Career Development Support
Training, classes, and professional development
Tuition reimbursement
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify. For more information, visit studentaid.gov)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
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 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
Equal Opportunity Employer Minnesota 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 related disabilities), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to 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 651‑259‑3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Seniority Level Director
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Other
Industries Government Administration
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Director of Legislation and External Affairs / State Program Administrator Manager
role at
State of Minnesota
Working Title Director of Legislation and External Affairs
Job Class State Program Administrator Manager
Agency Children Youth & Families Department
Job Details
Job ID: 90618
Location: St. Paul
Telework Eligible: Yes
Full/Part Time: Full Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers. This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 12/11/25. To be considered a bidder, you must be a permanent, non‑probationary DCYF employee in the same job classification as the position posted.
Date Posted: 12/04/2025
Closing Date: 12/26/2025
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: DCYF / Managerial
Division/Unit: DCYF / Government Relations
Work Shift: Day Shift
Work Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Travel Required: Yes, 5%
Salary Range: $40.26 - $58.20 per hour; $84,062 - $121,521 per year
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Manager/Unrep
FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DCYF does not participate in E‑Verify.
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.
Telework and Flexibility
Telework (within Minnesota or neighboring states) and flexible hours options are available.
Responsibilities
Direct the legislative agenda for assigned administration(s) and division(s).
Serve as an advisor to leadership in administration(s) and division(s) related to government relations practices and strategies.
Develop and implement government relations strategies.
Lead major policy change initiatives.
Provide leadership and mentoring for division‑level staff and legislative coordinators/leads, directing their work to develop strategic policy and budget proposals.
Manage and improve stakeholder relations.
Represent the policy and budget priorities for assigned administration(s) and division(s) with external parties.
Control and direct business operations of DCYF.
Make decisions and issue directions to other employees such as policy leaders, Assistant Commissioners, and others.
Minimum Qualifications
Five (5) years of advocacy or lobbying experience at the state or federal level, with at least 3 years of experience with the Minnesota Legislature.
This experience is a prerequisite. Candidates who meet it will be further evaluated on the following during the interview process:
Significant testimony before legislative bodies, including prepared and impromptu presentations.
Knowledge of human services concepts, programs, roles, and functions of state government, as well as of the county and local delivery system.
Clear understanding of the legislative process and timelines in Minnesota.
Demonstrated high‑quality writing skills through preparation of legislation, fact sheets, talking points, briefing packets, legislative reports, presentations, and correspondence.
Effective project management skills to lead policy staff and leadership through complex processes such as proposal development, hearing preparation, and report drafting.
Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment that may include long and irregular hours, particularly during the legislative session.
Preferred Qualifications
A master’s degree in public administration, public policy, or a law degree.
Experience working in a legislative capacity for a state agency or the legislature.
Experience working effectively with others from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Additional Requirements
A successful background investigation prior to employment, which may include reference check, criminal background check, fingerprinting, driver’s license check, and personnel file review.
Additional assessment may be required during the interview process.
How to Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact If you have questions about the position, contact Jennifer Sommerfield at Jennifer.Sommerfield@state.mn.us.
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title, and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Luis Hernandez‑Cuate at luis.hernandez‑cuate@state.mn.us.
If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Children, Youth and Families ADA Coordinator at 651‑431‑4945 or DCYF ADA at ada.dcyf@state.mn.us.
Benefits As 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
Career Development Support
Training, classes, and professional development
Tuition reimbursement
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify. For more information, visit studentaid.gov)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
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 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
Equal Opportunity Employer Minnesota 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 related disabilities), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to 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 651‑259‑3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Seniority Level Director
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Other
Industries Government Administration
#J-18808-Ljbffr