Legislative Liaison - State Program Admin. Senior

Working Title: Legislative Liaison

Job Class: State Program Administrator Senior

Agency: Commerce Department

• Job ID: 98032
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Limited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 10/28/2026
• Closing Date: 11/10/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Commerce Dept / Commerce-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Govt & External Affairs
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Not Applicable Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $28.75 - $42.16 / hourly; $60,030 - $88,030 / annually
• Classified Status: Unclassified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Employees/MAPE
• End Date: 7 months from date of hire (legislative session only)
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No
  
  

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.

Hybrid work schedule available, up to 50% telework depending on business needs. Telework can be outside of the State of Minnesota if the candidate lives in a state bordering Minnesota and lives 50 miles or less from the primary work location. Primary work location will be the Golden Rule Building in St. Paul..

This 7-month temporary unclassified position is responsible for promoting government relations activities on behalf of Commerce to the state legislature, other elected officials, and constituent groups. It will assist with legislative projects, development of talking points, represent the Department at committee hearings, and interact with staff across the Department in support of Government Affairs priorities. The position will assist the Director in responding to public officials and constituents at the state, federal and local levels on policy and budget initiatives.

Responsibilities Include

• Provide technical advice, guidance, and clear, thoughtful information on the development of government affairs programs. Ensure that program and fiscal implications of plans are coordinated in the legislative planning process.
• Assist business units as assigned with legislative initiatives.
• Support communications aspects of Commerce
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

Two (2) years of experience advising leadership with regard to proposed legislation, policies, and programs demonstrating the following:

• Accurate interpretation and communication of the policies, procedures, and statutes governing the agency.
• Understanding of the overall structure and operations of the state government and legislative process.
• Experience conducting policy analysis.
  
  

A Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Public Administration or closely related field is equivalent to one (1) year of experience.

An Advanced degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Public Administration or closely related field is equivalent to eighteen (18) months of experience.

Applicants who meet the above education/experience requirements will be further evaluated based on the following:

• Strong written and communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Capacity to balance multiple deadlines
• Flexibility to work irregular hours during legislative session
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working at the Minnesota Legislature and/or a state agency
  
  

Physical Requirements

Requires occasional moving of articles such as boxes, accounting records, laptop computer, and portable printer.

Additional Requirements

Job offer is contingent upon passing reference checks to verify job-related credentials, a criminal background check and drivers’ license 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 Human Resources at HR.Commerce@state.mn.us or 651-539-1506.

About Commerce Department

Commerce protects the public interest through a broad range of regulations and programs. We oversee more than 40 industry areas in Minnesota and license about 250,000 professionals and businesses to ensure that their services and products are fair, accessible and comply with state laws.

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.