What are the responsibilities and job description for the Policy and Strategy Advisor - Agency Policy Specialist position at Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development?
Working Title: Policy and Strategy Advisor
Job Class: Agency Policy Specialist
Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development
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 leads statewide workforce system policy development, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) planning coordination, and interagency alignment efforts to ensure Minnesota’s public workforce system is strategic, compliant, and aligned with state priorities. The role provides high-level policy leadership on behalf of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the Governor’s Workforce Development Board (GWDB), and the Interagency Workforce Alignment Taskforce by developing system-level policies, coordinating statewide and regional WIOA planning, and facilitating collaboration across state agencies, Local Workforce Development Boards, and other partners. The position is responsible for interpreting federal guidance, advancing statewide workforce strategies, and supporting multi-agency governance structures to strengthen coherence and effectiveness across Minnesota’s workforce system.
This position requires monthly local travel to support business needs.
This position will be based out of the St. Paul office. This position is telework eligible. Staff are provided with the tools and equipment to be successful in a virtual work environment. Please note, the telework policy could change with notice based on business needs.
This posting may be used to fill multiple positions.
Minimum Qualifications
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. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.
Three (3) years of experience performing policy analysis, exercising judgment, and applying specialized knowledge in workforce development, public policy, or a related field determined by the agency.
Applicants that meet the above minimum qualification will be further evaluated on the following:
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:
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.
to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Connect 700 Program
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 Talent Acquisition at talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us.
Veterans
To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD-214 form and other required documentation to talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us by the closing date.
Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview.
Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non-competitive basis.
See the above links for criteria and eligibility.
Current State Employees
If you have questions about this position, contact Allex Roberge at allex.roberge@state.mn.us
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
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:
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.
The Department of Employment and Economic Development is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employer, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply for job opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application and search tools, please contact Karen Lilledahl at Karen.Lilledahl@state.mn.us. Please indicate what assistance is needed.
Job Class: Agency Policy Specialist
Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development
- Job ID: 93606
- Location: St. Paul
- Telework Eligible: Yes, may be eligible for some telework
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 04/24/2026.
- Date Posted: 04/18/2026
- Closing Date: 04/30/2026
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Employment and Economic Development - MAPE
- Division/Unit: Governor's Workforce Development Board
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:30AM to 5:00PM
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: Yes, up to 5% of the time.
- Salary Range: $34.69 - $51.45 / hourly; $72,432 - $107,427 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees - MAPE
- FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
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 leads statewide workforce system policy development, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) planning coordination, and interagency alignment efforts to ensure Minnesota’s public workforce system is strategic, compliant, and aligned with state priorities. The role provides high-level policy leadership on behalf of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the Governor’s Workforce Development Board (GWDB), and the Interagency Workforce Alignment Taskforce by developing system-level policies, coordinating statewide and regional WIOA planning, and facilitating collaboration across state agencies, Local Workforce Development Boards, and other partners. The position is responsible for interpreting federal guidance, advancing statewide workforce strategies, and supporting multi-agency governance structures to strengthen coherence and effectiveness across Minnesota’s workforce system.
This position requires monthly local travel to support business needs.
This position will be based out of the St. Paul office. This position is telework eligible. Staff are provided with the tools and equipment to be successful in a virtual work environment. Please note, the telework policy could change with notice based on business needs.
This posting may be used to fill multiple positions.
Minimum Qualifications
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. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.
Three (3) years of experience performing policy analysis, exercising judgment, and applying specialized knowledge in workforce development, public policy, or a related field determined by the agency.
Applicants that meet the above minimum qualification will be further evaluated on the following:
- Experience interpreting and applying federal workforce development statutes or regulations, including the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
- Knowledge of Minnesota’s workforce development system, including roles of state agencies, Local Workforce Development Boards (LWDBs), and the Governor's Workforce Development Board (GWDB).
- Experience developing policy, guidance, or strategic planning materials in a government or public-sector environment.
- Knowledge of communications skills sufficient to share information with stakeholders and colleagues.
- Experience producing policy documents, reports, and guidance materials.
- Experience facilitating or coordinating cross-agency, cross-sector, or multi-stakeholder groups.
- Experience coordinating statewide or multi-regional WIOA planning processes.
- Experience engaging senior leadership, state agencies, and external partners in policy development or planning activities.
- Ability to manage project timelines, monitor deliverables, and coordinate activities across multiple partners.
- Experience conducting research and analysis to identify best practices and translate findings into actionable policy recommendations.
- Experience supporting boards, committees, or task forces through agenda development, meeting coordination, facilitation, or follow-up activities.
- 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.
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:
- Criminal Background Check
- Employment Records Check (current and former State employees only)
- Employment Reference Check
- Conflict of Interest Review
- Driver’s License and Records Check
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.
to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Connect 700 Program
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 Talent Acquisition at talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us.
Veterans
To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD-214 form and other required documentation to talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us by the closing date.
Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview.
Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non-competitive basis.
See the above links for criteria and eligibility.
Current State Employees
- Please apply via Self Service.
- If eligible for bidding or expression of interest: This vacancy will be open for bids/expression of interest and all qualified applicants simultaneously. Current employees of DEED who are currently in the same classification, who are eligible, and apply within the seven (7) day period will be considered prior to filling the position by other means.
If you have questions about this position, contact Allex Roberge at allex.roberge@state.mn.us
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
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
- Training, classes, and professional development
- 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)
- 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
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.
The Department of Employment and Economic Development is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employer, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply for job opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application and search tools, please contact Karen Lilledahl at Karen.Lilledahl@state.mn.us. Please indicate what assistance is needed.
Salary : $72,432 - $107,427