Minnesota Department of Human Services
Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
Minnesota Department of Human Services, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States, 55199
Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
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Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
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Minnesota Department of Human Services Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants Join to apply for the
Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
role at
Minnesota Department of Human Services Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 08/01/2025 Closing Date: 08/11/2025 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office Division/Unit: Health Care Administration / Office of the Medicaid Medical Director Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00am - 4:30pm Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: No Salary Range: $34.18 - $50.69 / hourly; $71,367 - $105,840 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
Working Title: Project Director
Job Class: Agency Policy Specialist
Agency: Human Services Dept
Job ID: 87980 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: 08/01/2025 Closing Date: 08/11/2025 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office Division/Unit: Health Care Administration / Office of the Medicaid Medical Director Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00am - 4:30pm Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: No Salary Range: $34.18 - $50.69 / hourly; $71,367 - $105,840 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The Department of Human Services is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DHS does not participate in E-Verify.
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.
This position is eligible for telework for applicants who reside in Minnesota or in a bordering state, with supervisory approval and satisfactory performance. If you live in a state bordering Minnesota, you must live within 50 miles or less from the primary work location to be eligible for telework.
The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking a Project Director to lead the implementation of an innovative, statewide initiative to integrate behavioral health and primary care through the Collaborative Care Model (CoCM), a nationally recognized, evidence-based approach that embeds behavioral health services within primary care settings.
This position leads the strategic planning, policy development, operational planning, and community engagement strategy for Minnesota’s five-year SAMHSA-funded Collaborative Care pilot, housed within the Office of the Medicaid Medical Director. The initiative aims to:
Expand access to integrated mental health and substance use services Reduce disparities in behavioral health outcomes Improve care coordination and reduce system fragmentation Establish sustainable infrastructure and payment models for long-term adoption
The Project Director will coordinate efforts across DHS administrations, other state agencies, community-based providers, people with lived experience, and health system partners to support implementation and sustainability. This work includes guiding legislative and budget proposals, managing complex cross-agency workgroups, and representing the division in high-visibility conversations with internal and external partners. This position will also support broader integrated population health efforts within the division.
Key responsibilities include:
Lead policy and program design, budget development, and legislative planning to support the statewide implementation of the Collaborative Care Model Coordinate the operational, financial, and technical infrastructure needed for pilot implementation, including contracts, compliance, and payment methodologies Establish goals, key performance indicators, and evaluation frameworks to monitor success and support long-term sustainability Translate legislative and policy requirements into practice, ensuring integration across provider types and partner groups Facilitate meaningful engagement with counties, tribes, providers, advocacy groups, and individuals with lived experience to ensure culturally and linguistically appropriate service design Develop and deliver presentations, reports, and briefings to internal leadership, legislators, and external partners Support data-informed decision-making through project research, analysis, and application of continuous quality improvement methodologies Manage overlapping priorities across behavioral health and population health initiatives, ensuring alignment with broader integrated care strategies Serve as liaison to other DHS divisions, state agencies, and external partners to align efforts and resolve interagency issues Represent DHS in high-visibility settings and lead collaborative decision-making processes for complex, politically sensitive projects
Minimum Qualifications
Three (3) years of demonstrated experience in project management within the health services field.
Experience must demonstrate:
Leading complex projects involving multiple invested partners, timelines, and deliverables Designing, implementing, and evaluating health service pilots or initiatives Community-driven research/evaluation design and execution, designing, implementing and evaluating pilot studies, and scaling up initiatives for sustainability Communicating findings and recommendations to diverse technical and non-technical audiences
***Master’s degree or higher in health care administration, health services research, public health or related social science field may substitute for 1 year of professional experience***
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of Medicaid policy, payment models, and healthcare service delivery systems Experience working with state or federal grant-funded initiatives (e.g., SAMHSA), including reporting and compliance Familiarity with Minnesota statutes and rules governing DHS programs, especially related to integrated care and behavioral health Demonstrated success in engaging counties, tribes, health care providers, and community-based organizations in systems change efforts Strong understanding of culturally and linguistically appropriate services, with experience applying equity frameworks to program design and community engagement Advanced oral and written communication skills, including experience preparing legislative reports, public-facing documents, or executive briefings Experience using project management tools or frameworks (e.g., Lean, CQI, Six Sigma, Agile) Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.
Additional Requirements
To facilitate proper 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.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS - The Department of Human Services will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and criminal background check prior to appointment.
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 this position, contact Erin at erin.flicker@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 Kelly Ellich at kelly.ellich@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 Human Services’ ADA Coordinator at 651-431-4945 or DHS_ADA@state.mn.us for assistance.
About Human Services Dept
WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The Minnesota Department of Human Services impacts the lives of 1.7 million people every year, helping them meet their basic needs so they can achieve their highest potential.
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
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
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 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 EMPLOYERS
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 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 Disabilities
Minnesota 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 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need. Seniority level
Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
Job function Other Industries Government Administration Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Minnesota Department of Human Services by 2x Sign in to set job alerts for “Policy Director” roles.
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Join to apply for the
Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
role at
Minnesota Department of Human Services Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants Join to apply for the
Project Director - Agency Policy Specialist
role at
Minnesota Department of Human Services Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 08/01/2025 Closing Date: 08/11/2025 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office Division/Unit: Health Care Administration / Office of the Medicaid Medical Director Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00am - 4:30pm Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: No Salary Range: $34.18 - $50.69 / hourly; $71,367 - $105,840 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
Working Title: Project Director
Job Class: Agency Policy Specialist
Agency: Human Services Dept
Job ID: 87980 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: 08/01/2025 Closing Date: 08/11/2025 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office Division/Unit: Health Care Administration / Office of the Medicaid Medical Director Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00am - 4:30pm Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: No Salary Range: $34.18 - $50.69 / hourly; $71,367 - $105,840 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The Department of Human Services is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DHS does not participate in E-Verify.
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.
This position is eligible for telework for applicants who reside in Minnesota or in a bordering state, with supervisory approval and satisfactory performance. If you live in a state bordering Minnesota, you must live within 50 miles or less from the primary work location to be eligible for telework.
The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking a Project Director to lead the implementation of an innovative, statewide initiative to integrate behavioral health and primary care through the Collaborative Care Model (CoCM), a nationally recognized, evidence-based approach that embeds behavioral health services within primary care settings.
This position leads the strategic planning, policy development, operational planning, and community engagement strategy for Minnesota’s five-year SAMHSA-funded Collaborative Care pilot, housed within the Office of the Medicaid Medical Director. The initiative aims to:
Expand access to integrated mental health and substance use services Reduce disparities in behavioral health outcomes Improve care coordination and reduce system fragmentation Establish sustainable infrastructure and payment models for long-term adoption
The Project Director will coordinate efforts across DHS administrations, other state agencies, community-based providers, people with lived experience, and health system partners to support implementation and sustainability. This work includes guiding legislative and budget proposals, managing complex cross-agency workgroups, and representing the division in high-visibility conversations with internal and external partners. This position will also support broader integrated population health efforts within the division.
Key responsibilities include:
Lead policy and program design, budget development, and legislative planning to support the statewide implementation of the Collaborative Care Model Coordinate the operational, financial, and technical infrastructure needed for pilot implementation, including contracts, compliance, and payment methodologies Establish goals, key performance indicators, and evaluation frameworks to monitor success and support long-term sustainability Translate legislative and policy requirements into practice, ensuring integration across provider types and partner groups Facilitate meaningful engagement with counties, tribes, providers, advocacy groups, and individuals with lived experience to ensure culturally and linguistically appropriate service design Develop and deliver presentations, reports, and briefings to internal leadership, legislators, and external partners Support data-informed decision-making through project research, analysis, and application of continuous quality improvement methodologies Manage overlapping priorities across behavioral health and population health initiatives, ensuring alignment with broader integrated care strategies Serve as liaison to other DHS divisions, state agencies, and external partners to align efforts and resolve interagency issues Represent DHS in high-visibility settings and lead collaborative decision-making processes for complex, politically sensitive projects
Minimum Qualifications
Three (3) years of demonstrated experience in project management within the health services field.
Experience must demonstrate:
Leading complex projects involving multiple invested partners, timelines, and deliverables Designing, implementing, and evaluating health service pilots or initiatives Community-driven research/evaluation design and execution, designing, implementing and evaluating pilot studies, and scaling up initiatives for sustainability Communicating findings and recommendations to diverse technical and non-technical audiences
***Master’s degree or higher in health care administration, health services research, public health or related social science field may substitute for 1 year of professional experience***
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of Medicaid policy, payment models, and healthcare service delivery systems Experience working with state or federal grant-funded initiatives (e.g., SAMHSA), including reporting and compliance Familiarity with Minnesota statutes and rules governing DHS programs, especially related to integrated care and behavioral health Demonstrated success in engaging counties, tribes, health care providers, and community-based organizations in systems change efforts Strong understanding of culturally and linguistically appropriate services, with experience applying equity frameworks to program design and community engagement Advanced oral and written communication skills, including experience preparing legislative reports, public-facing documents, or executive briefings Experience using project management tools or frameworks (e.g., Lean, CQI, Six Sigma, Agile) Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.
Additional Requirements
To facilitate proper 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.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS - The Department of Human Services will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and criminal background check prior to appointment.
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 this position, contact Erin at erin.flicker@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 Kelly Ellich at kelly.ellich@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 Human Services’ ADA Coordinator at 651-431-4945 or DHS_ADA@state.mn.us for assistance.
About Human Services Dept
WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The Minnesota Department of Human Services impacts the lives of 1.7 million people every year, helping them meet their basic needs so they can achieve their highest potential.
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
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
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 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 EMPLOYERS
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 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 Disabilities
Minnesota 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 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need. Seniority level
Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
Job function Other Industries Government Administration Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Minnesota Department of Human Services by 2x Sign in to set job alerts for “Policy Director” roles.
Government Relations Director-State Prog Admin Manager Sr
Operations Management Executive Director
Associate Medical Director, Director of Maternal Health Services – St. Paul, MN
St Paul, MN $162,240.00-$250,000.00 6 months ago Hamel, MN $153,600.00-$195,800.00 5 days ago Senior Director, Executive Communications and Speech Writer
Minneapolis, MN $200,000.00-$220,000.00 1 day ago Woodbury, MN $70,000.00-$90,000.00 1 week ago Director of Human Resources - Workforce Experience
Roseville, MN $140,000.00-$160,000.00 2 days ago MN350 & MN350 Action Board of Directors – Volunteer Position
Lakeville, MN $68,000.00-$72,000.00 4 days ago Clinical Manager, Embedded Mental Health Services
Minneapolis, MN $100,000.00-$115,000.00 1 month ago Director Business Development - Dedicated Transportation
Minneapolis, MN $105,000.00-$115,000.00 1 week ago Edina, MN $105,000.00-$115,000.00 1 week ago CAAS - Chief Financial Officer (Nonprofit Industry) | Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis, MN $145,823.00-$218,000.00 1 week ago St Paul, MN $68,000.00-$73,000.00 2 weeks ago St Paul, MN $100,000.00-$110,000.00 1 week ago 2026 Winter All School Musical Theater Advisors, Multiple Positions
Shoreview, MN $96,000.00-$122,000.00 2 weeks ago Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Compliance
Minneapolis–Saint Paul, WI $80,000.00-$95,000.00 1 week ago Minneapolis, MN $65,000.00-$115,000.00 4 days ago Minneapolis, MN $56,000.00-$66,000.00 1 week ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr