Policy Advisor - State Program Administrator Manager

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Job Details

Working Title: Policy Advisor

Job Class: State Program Administrator, Manager

Agency: Public Utilities Commission

• Job ID: 96890
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes - Hybrid
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Limited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 09/10/2026
• Closing Date: 10/1/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Public Utilities Comm / Managerial
• Division/Unit: Executive Services
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes - Up to 30% of the time
• Salary Range: $41.58 - $60.10 / hourly; $86,819 - $125,488 / annually
• Classified Status: Unclassified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Managerial
• End Date: Up to three (3) years
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No

The work youll 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 Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is excited to announce we are looking for a Commission Policy Advisor.

• Serve as a policy advisor to the Public Utilities Commissioners, agency leadership and staff of the Commission, regarding highly complex policy matters involving electricity, natural gas, energy facilities, and telecommunications.
• Prepare meeting/hearing messaging and presentation support to the Commission Chair, and at times, other Commissioners; and
• Assist the Deputy Executive Secretary in leading the strategic development of the legislative and intergovernmental priorities of the agency and the communication of those priorities with legislative chairs, members and staff of the Minnesota Legislature, other governmental bodies, and legislative stakeholders to insure budgetary and legislative outcomes reflect agency priorities.

This position is temporary in nature and expected to last a maximum of three (3) years with the possibility of converting to permanent if work need and funding shift.

All PUC leaders are expected to demonstrate and develop the six competency themes from the Enterprise-Wide Leader Competency Model:

• Leading Self
• Leading Others
• Leading the Organization
• Leading Outside the Organization
• Getting Work Done

Please Note: This career opportunity is based at the PUC offices in St. Paul, MN and is not available for full-time remote work. Candidates must be available to appear for briefings and hearings in St. Paul, MN. This position will be required to work onsite or in-person for at least 50% of scheduled workdays each month (including travel and off-site meetings). *Statewide travel is possible up to 30% of the time.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Five (5) years professional work experience in the following areas:
• Demonstrated understanding or experience with state utility regulation process, issues, and legal framework.
• Demonstrated success in developing and advocating for legislative outcomes.

Knowledge and experience in the following areas will be assessed during the interview process:

• Strong oral and written communication skills sufficient to communicate complicated technical information clearly and present information to Commissioners, Legislator and stakeholders and to lead meetings on complex subjects.
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to mediate, persuade, negotiate, and manage relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, and effectively resolve problems or issues.
• Ability to work in a collaborative manner to accomplish the legislative and policy goals and objectives of the Commission.
• Doctorate degree in Public Policy or Political Science may substitute for two years of experience.
• Master's degree in public policy, political science, or relevant field may substitute for 18 months of experience.
• Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or relevant field may substitute for one year of experience.
• Associate's degree in public policy, political science, or relevant field may substitute for may substitute for six months of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in public policy, political science or related field.
• Experience working at a state utility regulatory agency, Governor's office, legislative body, energy non-profit advocate or regulated utility.
• Variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of a reference check and background screening.

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 Morgan Stafford at morgan.stafford@state.mn.us or 651-201-2208.

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 Morgan Stafford at morgan.stafford@state.mn.us.

About the Public Utilities Commission

The mission of the Commission is to improve the lives of all Minnesotans by ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable utility services at just and reasonable rates.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesotas 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, youll 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.