Associate Planning Director Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Job Details
Working Title: Energy Resilience Planning Director
Job Class: Planning Director State
Agency: Commerce Department

• Job ID: 96436
• 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: 08/20/2026
• Closing Date: 09/08/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Commerce Dept / Commerce-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Emerging Energy Technologies
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $37.91 - $56.39 / hourly; $79,156 - $117,742 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/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.
Job Summary
Hybrid work schedule available, up to 50% telework depending on business needs. Telework can be outside of the state of Minnesota if the candidate lives in a state bordering Minnesota and lives 50 miles or less from the primary work location. Primary work location will be the Golden Rule Building in St. Paul.
Internal candidates should contact Human Resources with questions.
This position is responsible for planning and advising on activities to ensure the security and resilience of Minnesota's energy sectors critical infrastructure. The position provides support for energy security planning and implementation to ensure the health, safety, and economic security of state and regional energy systems from physical and other threats. The position operates under a framework of planning, preparedness, and response for energy security and resilience as a subject matter expert to both internal and external stakeholders with a focus on community needs and equity.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Four (4) years of experience performing analysis, exercising judgment, and relying on knowledge in energy supply systems, including electrical, petroleum, and/or delivered fuels.
A Bachelor's degree in Energy Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Energy, Energy Policy, or related field is equivalent to one (1) year of experience.
An Advanced degree in Energy Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Energy, Energy Policy or related field is equivalent to eighteen (18) months of experience.
Applicants who meet the above education/experience requirement will be further evaluated based on the following:

• Experience analyzing and interpreting technical reports, data sets, and special reports.
• Experience writing, editing, and organizing materials for required reports, memos, correspondence, and related documentation.
• Experience communicating complex information to decision makers with varying levels of energy knowledge.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities, organize information, and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Federal Energy Assurance Planning and Activities.
• Bachelor's or Advanced degree in Engineering or Energy Policy.
• Experience in Energy Security and Delivery.
• Experience with Emergency Planning/Management or Hazard Planning. i.e. Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security, FEMA, Utilities, or related.

Physical Requirements
Requires occasional moving of articles such as boxes, accounting records, laptop computer, and portable printer.
Additional Requirements
Job offer is contingent upon passing reference checks to verify job-related credentials and a criminal background check prior to appointment.
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 Human Resources at hr.commerce@state.mn.us or 651-539-1506 .
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 Human Resources at hr.commerce@state.mn.us .
About Commerce Department
Commerce protects the public interest through a broad range of regulations and programs. We oversee more than 40 industry areas in Minnesota and license about 250,000 professionals and businesses to ensure that their services and products are fair, accessible, and comply with state laws.
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
• Tuition reimbursement
• 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.