Director of Workforce Development and Legislative Liaison - State Program Administrator Coordinator

Job Details

Working Title: Director of Workforce Development and Legislative Liaison
Job Class: State Program Administrator, Coordinator
Agency: Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation

• Job ID: 92759
• Location: Eveleth
• Telework Eligible: Yes, please see details in Job Summary
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 03/13/2026
• Closing Date: 04/06/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation - MAPE
• Division/Unit: IRRRB Eveleth / Development
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift; 8:00am - 4:30pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes - Up to 25% of the time
• Salary Range: $37.26 - $55.42 / hourly; $77,798 - $115,716 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees - MAPE
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative
• 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.

Job Summary

The Director of Regional Workforce Development and Legislative Liaison position contains a hybrid of duties in the legislative and workforce development areas. This position works in partnership with Minnesota North College to develop, manage and coordinate regional workforce development initiatives that have a significant impact on education and economic development in northeastern Minnesota. This position also provides guidance and support to the Business Development and Community Development teams on all matters related to workforce development.

Working under the direction of the Commissioner, the incumbent supports and represents the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR) on legislative and agency related policy matters. Serves as the primary contact on all legislative matters and guides the agency’s staff on legislative relations. Leads and coordinates the development of agency legislative proposals, initiatives and strategies consistent with agency goals/priorities and with strategic priorities established by the Governor’s Office, other state agencies and external agency partners. Supports Minnesota North College’s workforce development academic programs and serves as a key legislative and policy liaison in support of the College’s interests.

The position has a contributory impact on the IRRR’s budget of approximately $70 million through proper execution of position responsibilities.

This position is located at our Eveleth office, with travel as needed to St. Paul during legislative sessions and beyond, and to Minnesota North College campuses as needed.

This position may be eligible for a mixture of in-office and telework. If approved for telework, incumbent may telework two (2) days per week and will be required to complete a telework agreement.

Qualifications

The following qualifications are required of all applicants seeking consideration for this position. Only applicants whose application materials clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for the position.

To facilitate proper credit, please ensure that your resume clearly indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.

Minimum Qualifications

• Four* (4) years of professional experience which includes advising management regarding proposed legislation, policies, and programs.
• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, communications, political science or other closely related field as determined by the agency can substitute one (1) year of experience; Master’s degree substitutes for eighteen (18) months of experience.

• Knowledge of workforce development programs and strategies.
• Knowledge of and ability to accurately interpret and communicate the policies, procedures and statutes governing the agency.
• Thorough knowledge of the overall structure and operations of state government and the legislative and budget processes.
• Possess the skill to analyze complex, difficult, and technical issues affecting IRRR programs and initiatives as well as federal and state policies.
• Exceptional strong, persuasive oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally both verbally and in writing.
• Interpersonal skills and abilities to collaborate and work cooperatively and effectively with both private and public entities, groups and organizations.
• Experience working with a diverse clientele including the commitment to equity and diversity in the work environment.
• Valid MN Driver’s License.

Preferred Qualifications

• An understanding of higher education institutions and the ability to interact with college administrators and faculty.
• Experience in resolving or coordinating the resolution of a variety of problems involving the most critical issues affecting legislative policies.
• Sensitivity to the political atmosphere with skill to balance the need for responsible legislative policy development.
• Broad working knowledge of Minnesota state government contract and grant requirements and processes, and capital project and asset preservation budgeting, planning and implementation.
• Knowledge of governmental business practices and experience dealing with administrative policies and procedures.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of the following:

• Ability to transport oneself to external meetings or obligations.
• It is the policy of the Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation all employees submit to an employment and criminal background check prior to employment.
• In accordance with the Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation's Fleet Safety Program, employees driving on agency business who use a rental or state vehicle shall be required to follow Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation's vehicle use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check.
• If approved for telework, the employee will be required to complete a telework agreement. This is subject to change with notice. Telework eligible for applicants that reside in Minnesota.

Application Details

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 Wendy Tammaro at wendy.tammaro@state.mn.us or 218-735-3009.

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 Wendy Tammaro at wendy.tammaro@state.mn.us.

About Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation

Our natural resources are the crown jewel of Minnesota. Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR) works to improve economic opportunities for diversity and inclusion within its service area. We are an agency that reinvests local taconite production taxes back into northeastern Minnesota businesses and communities in order to strengthen and diversify the economy. Our mission is to invest resources to foster vibrant growth and economic prosperity in northeastern Minnesota.

IRRR provides vital funding, including low or no interest loans, grants and loan guarantees for businesses relocating or expanding in the region. Additionally, a variety of grants are available to local units of government, education institutions, and nonprofits that promote workforce development and sustainable communities.

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
• 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.