Employer Engagement Specialist - Workforce Development Specialist 2
Working Title: Employer Engagement Specialist
Job Class: Workforce Development Specialist 2
Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development
• Job ID: 77635
• Location: Various; Minnesota Central Area; Minnesota Northwest Area
• Telework Eligible: Yes, may be eligible to telework up to two (2) days per week
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Limited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 09/24/2024
• Closing Date: 10/03/2024
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Employ & Econ Development Dept / Employ & Economic Dev-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Workforce Development / WFD Business Services X
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes, 20%
• Salary Range: $28.50 - $41.93 / hourly; $59,508 - $87,549 / annually
• Classified Status: Unclassified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• End Date: Two (2) Years
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Re-Posting: Yes
• 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.
Accepting applications for the following location(s):
• Northwest region in one of the following locations: Thief River Falls, Moorhead, Alexandria, Bemidji, or Brainerd
• Central region in one of the following locations: St. Cloud, Monticello, or Willmar
During the application process, you will be able to indicate your preferred location(s).
The purpose of these positions is to coordinate employer engagement within the Workforce Development and CareerForce systems. These positions have responsibility for three general types of activities: facilitation and implementation of CareerForce employer industry initiatives and collaborations; internal and external outreach, communication with employers, workforce partners, State of Minnesota employees, other stakeholders; and leading, training and support of statewide employer navigators.
These positions lead and facilitate industry-associated and employer-focused projects which are aligned with CareerForce and DEED priorities. These positions lead projects as assigned by their supervisor and senior leadership team. They maintain awareness of employer needs related to talent attraction, hiring, and retention. They lead partnerships between Job Service, CareerForce partners, industry, education, and economic development. Additionally, they provide training and support to Workforce Development staff and partners, as well as other stakeholders as needed.
The positions will meet with employers in person, online and by phone to discuss CareerForce services, assess their hiring needs, determine the best resources and representatives to help them both in the short term and long term, and makes connections accordingly. They provide timely workforce solutions and broker connections to the appropriate resources to connect employers with job seeking program participants, prioritizing immigrants, BIPOC individuals and women.
As needed these positions will focus on a variety of workforce development programs, including: the Drive for Five (5) occupational categories (caring professions, manufacturing, the trades , technology, and education); State of Minnesota careers; Drive for Five (5) training programs; CHIPS Act placements; Clean Energy placements; Inflation Reduction Act programs; Federal Transportation Programs; Apprenticeships; and/or others.
These positions are Temporary Unclassified due to the necessary development of a new program with limited-duration funding. The position is professional, fully anticipated to be no greater than three (3) years, as the program funding is anticipated to last for two (2) years.
This posting may be used to fill multiple positions.
This position was previously posted 06/15/2024 - 07/01/2024 and 08/13/2024 - 08/22/2024. Applicants that previously applied do not need to apply again and will still be considered.
Minimum Qualifications
To receive credit for your education and experience, your resume should clearly describe how you meet each minimum and/or preferred qualification listed, including dates of employment.
Two (2) years* of work experience in Workforce Development systems or providing services to businesses.
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, social work, human services, counseling, human resources, sociology, education or other closely related field as determined by the agency may substitute one (1) year of experience; master’s degree substitutes for eighteen (18) months of experience
Applicants that meet the above minimum qualification will be further evaluated on the following:
• Ability to communicate in a highly effective manner, verbally, in writing and in person to diverse groups and individuals.
• Project planning and business operations knowledge.
• Proficient with computer programs and software (i.e., Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Knowledge and experience working with and applying federal and state programs and regulations.
• Incumbent must maintain valid driver's license, & insurance, OR have other reliable transportation.
Preferred Qualifications
• Skill communicating in a secondary language (Spanish, Somali, Hmong or other dialect).
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in business administration, social work, human services, counseling, human resources, sociology, education or other closely related field as determined by the agency AND related experience.
• Knowledge of Labor Market Information, Economic Conditions and Unemployment Statistics.
• Knowledge of Minnesota’s in Demand Occupations, Sectors, and Industries.
• Problem-solving skills sufficient to address a diverse array of regulations, guidance, and procedures.
• Ability to adapt to a changing environment and handle multiple priorities.
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
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 Record Review (current and former State employees only)
• Employment Reference Check
• Conflict of Interview Review
• Driver’s Record Check
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
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.
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 Amber Yang 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.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Amber Yang at amber.yang@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
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.
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.
Government Administration
Human Resources
Full-time