Working Title: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist/DEI Specialist
Job Class: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Specialist
Agency: Human Services Dept
- Job ID: 77762
- Location: St. Paul
- Telework Eligible: Yes
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 06/20/2024
- Closing Date: 06/26/2024
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office
- Division/Unit: DHS - Central Office / CFS Children and Family Services
- Work Shift: Day Shift
- Work Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: Yes 10% travel to meetings and events
- Salary Range: $24.20 - $35.13 / hourly; $50,529 - $73,351 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
- FLSA Status: Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The Department of Human Services is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment.
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.
In the 2023 legislative session, the Governor’s Office, Minnesota legislature, and leaders for children and families worked in partnership to pass legislation establishing the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) to create a sustainable, public face for children’s issues in state government. This new cabinet-level agency brings together programs centered on children and families, including child care and early learning, child support, child safety and permanency, economic support and food assistance, and youth opportunity. This position will become a part of DCYF.
***Telework(Within Minnesota or neighboring states) and flexible hours options are available.***
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist (DEI) works in partnership with the Equity and Engagement team to develop, implement and evaluate educational and intercultural learning opportunities designed to advance the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) racial equity and impact-driven goals. The DEI Specialist will be responsible for developing outcomes-based plans and collaborate with key partners to execute programs, events and other initiatives that build a culture of inclusion and belonging at the department. The incumbent should be highly organized, collaborative, detail-oriented and have strong planning and communication skills. Coordinates with communications team to develop culturally responsive agency-wide communications that highlight various cultural observances and celebrations, key anniversaries and dates, and initiatives coming out of the Equity and Engagement Office. Additional responsibilities include:
- Coordinate the development, planning, organizing, implementation and evaluation of a broad range of events, programs and activities with a focus on advancing racial equity and social justice at the agency..
- Collaborate with agencywide partners to develop and implement a communications strategy to highlight DEI topics, celebrations and observances.
- Be intentional in fostering strategic, positive and culturally informed relationships with coworkers, leaders and partners to ensure the work of the office is done in an impact-driven manner.
- Remain flexible and agile to the evolving needs of the Equity and Engagement Office to meet the expectations of an everchanging department.
**To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month, day and year for each job held.**
One year of professional experience OR 3 years of advanced technical or paraprofessional experience coordinating and leading DEI programs and initiatives. Experience must include:
- Experience working in a large, diverse and complex organization (900+ employees).
- Strong communication skills to effectively convey complex topics and concepts.
- Strong organizing and conflict management skills to balance multiple projects and priorities.
- Interest, passion and commitment to advancing racial equity.
- A Bachelor’s degree in a related field can substitute for 1 of the 3 years required of advanced technical or paraprofessional experience.
- Experience hosting training, events and programs with the goal of advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and racial equity.
- Knowledge of topics, trends and promising practices in diversity, equity, inclusion and racial equity.
- Experience working with and supporting culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
- Understanding of complex concepts and frameworks such as intersectionality and social justice.
- Prior educational experience in the fields of social work, sociology, psychology, ethnic or cultural studies, business and others.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to self-start and to work with little direct supervision.
- Variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS – DHS will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and a criminal background check prior to appointment.
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
If you have questions about this position, contact Amy John at amy.john@state.mn.us or 651-431-5710.
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 Amy John at amy.john@state.mn.us.
If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Human Services’ ADA Coordinator at 651-431-4945 or DHS_ADA@state.mn.us for assistance.
WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The Minnesota Department of Human Services impacts the lives of 1.7 million people every year, helping them meet their basic needs so they can achieve their highest potential.
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.
- 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
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 job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.