PUC Jobs Board

Job Summary

The Public Utilities Commission is hiring an Executive Secretary. The position serves at the pleasure of the Commission to carry out the powers and duties of the position as set forth in MN Statute 216A.04, subd. 1a. Among the duties listed in this statute include: serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of the commission with responsibility for personnel, overall management, staff development, budget, and other administrative details; prepare orders, reports and other materials as assigned. The position oversees practices that assure the commission’s policies governing the permitting of large energy facilities and the rates and terms of service of jurisdictional energy utilities and telephone companies are followed. The position directs the media operations for the agency, so the public is well informed of commission actions, as well as directs the senior management team to ensure strategic and proper management of regulatory affairs, legal services, external affairs (including legislative and tribal), business and operational activities, permitting, and strategic planning.

Responsibilities:

• To provide managerial leadership to ensure the Commission is fully informed so decision-making occurs in accordance with state statutes and rules.
• Coordinate the Commission’s interaction with regional and national entities; the legislature; news media; regulatory and other state agencies.
• To direct the preparation, execution and reporting of the agency budget so that the goals of the Commission are accomplished with the funds available.
• Oversee the human resources of the Commission.
• Sign and review orders, reports and notices.
• Manage procedures to respond effectively and promptly to consumer concerns and provide information on regulatory matters.
• Develop and maintain a long-range plan based on the Commission’s long and short-term goals for regulation and consumer service.

Please note: As of June 1st, 2025, this position will have a flexible work arrangement that allows for up to 50% telework with a minimum of 50% working in at the Commission offices in Saint Paul, Minnesota per month.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Six (6) years professional experience in the public or private sector with responsibility for daily operations, including supervisory responsibilities, project management and/or budgeting
• Five (5) years professional experience working with regulated industries or in a regulatory capacity
• Experience with the planning, development and implementation of budgets and policies necessary to meet the goals of the organization
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide variety of people from the public, legislature, media and others
• Knowledge of regulatory practice and the utility industry

Minimum qualifications to be assessed at interview:

• Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
• Demonstrated supervisory skills/abilities sufficient to motivate staff and provide leadership to a team

*Bachelor’s degree in Public or Business Administration, Public Relations, Accounting, or related field may substitute for one year of experience.

*Master’s degree in Public or Business Administration, Public Relations, Accounting, or related field may substitute for one year of experience

*Completing the state’s Emerging Leadership Institute or Senior Leadership Institute qualifies for one year of supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Law, Master’s degree in public or business administration, public relations, accounting or related field
• Knowledge of Minnesota state government structure and operation
• Management experience which includes leadership, strategic planning, negotiation and conflict resolution
• Experience working with tribal governments
• Experience working on issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion or experience working with marginalized communities.