Grants and Contracts Specialist - Grants Specialist 2 (Intermediate)

Working Title: Grants and Contracts Specialist - Grants Specialist 2

Job Class: Grants Specialist 2

Agency: Public Safety Dept

• Job ID: 98050
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers and DPS employees eligible to bid. Eligible bidders (permanent, classified employees in the same job classification) should apply through self-service and confirm their bid by emailing Jess Fenlon at [email protected] by 11:59 PM 11/03/2026.
• Date Posted: 10/28/2026
• Closing Date: 11/12/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Public Safety Dept / Public Safety-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Office of Justice Programs / OJP Admin Team
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $29.76 - $43.69 / hourly; $62,138 - $91,224 / 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 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.

The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) at the Department of Public Safety provides leadership and resources to reduce crime, improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, and assist crime victims. This position exists to administer state and federal grant programs relating to violence prevention and intervention, youth intervention, criminal justice, and juvenile justice. Learn more about OJP at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ojp/about-ojp.

Responsibilities

This posting will be used to fill two (2) positions. In these positions you will manage OJP grant and amendment processing, contract development, and annual plan management. You will independently initiate, process, and close grant agreements using IGX to ensure that all federal and state guidelines are met. Key responsibilities include:

• Creating and processing grant agreements and amendments for OJP
• Creating, processing, and managing interagency agreements, professional/technical contracts, and annual plan agreements
• Training OJP staff and grantees on grant and amendment processing steps
• Creating and managing purchase orders in SWIFT and the grant management system.
  
  

Employees may telework up to 50%, depending on the position and the needs of the division.

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.

Minimum Qualifications

To facilitate proper 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.

• Two (2) years* experience in grant administration, program management, public administration, or closely related field.
  
  

Applicants that meet the above qualifications will be further evaluated on the following:

• Knowledge of grants management policies and procedures.
• Ability to analyze information, prioritize tasks, manage multiple priorities, and exercise sound judgment in identifying and addressing gaps in knowledge and practice.
• Ability to develop clear process documentation and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and maintain effective working relationships.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, data processing, and database concepts, techniques, and software.
• Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities
• A bachelors degree in public or nonprofit administration, public policy, accounting, planning, political science, criminal justice, community and economic development, or closely related field as determined by the agency can substitute for one (1) year of experience OR a master's degree may substitute for eighteen (18) months of experience.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing and implementing new grant programs or modifying existing programs based on federal grant requirements or legislative direction.
• Experience as a federal grant manager and or managing sub-award of federal grants.
• Knowledge of project management principles.
• Skill in developing, implementing, and communicating technical documents such as policies, procedures, or training materials.
• Skill in community engagement, training, or providing technical assistance to potential grant applicants, grantees, community groups, or other stakeholders.
  
  

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file folder and small tools. May need to maintain stationary position for long periods of time while carrying out job duties.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of the following:

It Is The Policy Of The Department Of Public Safety That All Employees Submit To a Background Investigation Prior To Employment, Including The Following Components

• criminal history
• reference check
• drivers license check
• SEMA4 records, personnel file and employment records (current and former state employees only).
  
  

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.

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 [email protected]. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Jessica Fenlon at [email protected]

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 Jessica Fenlon at [email protected].

About Public Safety Dept

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,400 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

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 [email protected] and let us know the support you need.