Intergovernmental Relations Liaison(Temporary)

Minnesota Judicial Branch • Saint Paul, MN

3d • $47 - $72 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Executive Division within the State Courts Administrator’s Office is seeking an Intergovernmental Relations Liaison to serve as the Judicial Branch’s liaison to the Legislature and other government agencies. Working with an existing Intergovernmental Relations Liaison, this position coordinates the Branch’s legislative and intergovernmental relations work and advises the State Court Administrator and internal constituents on policy and legislative issues affecting the Judicial Branch. The role also provides staff support to judicial committees, including the Legislative Advisory Workgroup, and works closely with Judicial Branch leadership, judges, court staff, legislators, and other stakeholders to advance the Branch’s legislative priorities. Work is performed according to state law, Supreme Court rules, State Court Administrator’s Office policies, Judicial Branch policies and procedures, and the Judicial Branch strategic plan. Work is reviewed by the State Court Administrator.

This is a temporary, full-time, session-only position expected to end June 30, 2027. It operates in a hybrid work environment, with occasional on-site days at the Minnesota Judicial Center in Saint Paul as business needs dictate. Occasional in-state travel and some non-standard hours are required.

Requirements

• Graduation from a four-year college or university with a major in public or business administration, political science, public policy, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and work experience demonstrating the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Five years of government affairs or legislative experience, including demonstrated experience developing initiatives or strategies around government affairs topics and/or external stakeholder work.
• Thorough knowledge of the Minnesota legislative process, including committee processes and the role of the Judicial Branch.
• Ability to analyze policy, interpret and develop statutory language, and support implementation.
• Thorough knowledge of the structure, organization, and operation of state court systems, and considerable knowledge of court administration issues.
• Excellent written, oral, and presentation skills, including the ability to explain complex or technical information clearly to diverse audiences and experience presenting to and testifying before legislative committees.
• Strong interpersonal, relationship-building, advocacy, negotiation, and collaboration skills, including the ability to maintain effective working relationships with legislators, executive branch officials, staffers, judges, court administrators, and other stakeholders.
• Excellent judgment, organizational and project management skills, and the ability to prioritize competing demands, lead meetings, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability and willingness to collaborate with the other Intergovernmental Relations Liaison to coordinate activities and ensure consistent communication and advocacy for the Judicial Branch.
• A doctorate in Public Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Law, Public Administration, or a related field may substitute for two years of experience; a relevant master’s degree may substitute for 18 months; and a relevant bachelor’s degree may substitute for one year.

Nice To Haves

• A four-year college degree, preferably supplemented by a master’s degree in public or court administration or a law degree.
• Considerable experience in court administration, criminal justice, social science research, or a closely related area.
• Considerable and progressively responsible experience in legislative analysis, community relations, or intergovernmental affairs, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the Judicial Branch’s legislative and intergovernmental relations program and manage its legislative program.
• Serve as a primary contact for legislators, legislative staff, government agencies, and external organizations.
• Work with judicial leadership and internal stakeholders to identify priorities and develop, draft, and advance legislative proposals.
• Track proposed legislation affecting the courts, analyze policy implications, prepare policy impact statements, and coordinate fiscal notes and supporting data.
• Consult with the State Court Administrator, judges, and court personnel about proposed legislation and legislative intent.
• Represent the Judicial Branch in legislative discussions and negotiations with legislators, staff, judges, court personnel, agencies, lobbyists, and other stakeholders.
• Attend hearings, coordinate testimony, prepare talking points and presentations, and testify when appropriate.
• Assess proposed amendments and determine appropriate responses using independent judgment.
• Prepare and distribute legislative-session updates and post-adjournment summaries of new laws.
• Develop presentations, talking points, letters, and other communications for the State Court Administrator in response to legislative inquiries, testimony requests, and appearance requests.
• Provide staff support to judicial committees, including the Legislative Advisory Workgroup, by developing agendas, preparing meeting materials, and coordinating committee activities.
• Prepare end-of-session legislative summaries for the State Court Administrator, Chief Justice, and other internal stakeholders.
• Track implementation of newly enacted legislation affecting the Judicial Branch.
• Build and maintain relationships with legislators, government agencies, court personnel, professional organizations, and other stakeholders to identify emerging issues, address concerns, and support Branch initiatives.
• Plan and coordinate outreach with the public and external partners as needed.

Benefits

• State of Minnesota employee benefits for eligible employees, including health and wellness benefits, enhanced fertility benefits, short- and long-term disability, pension, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.
• Employees may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level