Working Title: Bioeconomy Policy Manager

Job Class: State Program Administrator Principal

Agency: Minnesota Department of Agriculture

Job ID: 95762

Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: This vacancy is open to all bidders and qualified job seekers. Bidders will be considered through 08/03/2026.

Date Posted: 07/28/2026

Closing Date: 08/11/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: MN Department of Agriculture Division/Unit: Agriculture Marketing and Development (AMDD) / Energy & Environment Staff Work Shift/Work Hours: Day shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes - up to 5% Salary Range: $32.97 - $48.60 / hourly; $68,841 - $101,476 / annually Job Class Option: Biofuels 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

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.

This position exists to advance Minnesota’s bioeconomy by serving as a key policy resource for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). The role provides technical expertise on complex state and federal bioenergy, bioproduct, and biofuel policies, supports the Commissioner’s Office through interagency coordination and stakeholder management, identifies emerging opportunities for Minnesota’s agricultural sector, advises leadership on policy impacts, and leads initiatives and programs that enhance the value and economic potential of agricultural products.

This position is telework eligible.

Minimum Qualifications

To facilitate proper years of service crediting, 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.

Three years of professional experience working in the areas of energy, climate or agricultural policy or program administration.

A degree in environmental science, agriculture, biosystems and bioproducts, public policy, political science, or a related degree may be substituted for years of work experience as follows: associate’s degree – six months, bachelor’s degree – one year, master’s degree – 18 months.

Additional Required Experience Includes

Demonstrated knowledge of state legislative processes sufficient to recommend and develop legislative proposals and program budget initiatives. Demonstrated experience in program policy development, implementation and analysis. Demonstrated advanced oral and written communication skills sufficient to deliver presentations to MDA leadership and legislators, craft succinct and accurate briefing documents, and transfer technical/scientific concepts to plain language for dissemination. Interpersonal/human relation skills sufficient to establish effective ongoing relationships with the public, interest groups, MDA staff, and external agency leadership. Demonstrated knowledge of Minnesota statutes and federal laws that apply to MDA programs supporting bioenergy, bioproducts, and biofuels. Must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable motor vehicle record subject to review. Ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with the development or implementation of biofuels, bioproduct, or bioenergy related government rules, statutes, or policy. Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and crafting policy solutions based on stakeholder input and collaboration. More than three years of experience working with the Minnesota legislature on issues related to bioenergy, bioproducts, and biofuels. Experience in a project management or leadership role related to the bioeconomy including direct experience with strategic planning, work plans, and budgeting.

Additional Requirements

A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. It is the policy of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, as part of its hiring procedures, to conduct background checks on the finalist(s) for positions within the agency. The background check may consist of the following components:

SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only)

Employment Reference Check Conflict of Interest Review Driver’s license check Criminal history check

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

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 Megan Lennon at megan.lennon@state.mn.us

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 Megan Lichty at megan.lichty@state.mn.us.

About Minnesota Department Of Agriculture

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day.

Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.

Our Three General Areas Of Responsibility Include

Protecting our food supply; Protecting our natural resources; and, Cultivating our agricultural economy.

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.