Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialist - Veterans Employment Specialist

Job Details

Working Title: Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialist
Job Class: Veterans Employment Specialist
Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development

• Job ID: 93060
• Location: Blaine
• Telework Eligible: Yes, may be eligible for some telework
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: This vacancy is open for bids and all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 04/02/2026.
• Date Posted: 03/27/2026
• Closing Date: 04/15/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Employment and Economic Development - MAPE
• Division/Unit: Workforce Development
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00AM - 4:30PM
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes - Up to 30% of the time
• Salary Range: $26.43 - $38.55 / hourly; $55,185 - $80,492 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees
• 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.

Job Summary

Would you like to have a rewarding career and join an incredible team dedicated to helping Minnesota Veterans and spouses unlock their full potential through employment support? The Minnesota Department of Economic Development (DEED) is seeking a skilled and highly driven individual to join as a Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialist.

The DVOP Specialist provides individualized career services and facilitates job placement for eligible veterans and eligible spouses—prioritizing those with disabilities and other employment barriers—through case management, coaching, and coordination within the American Job Center (AJC) system. Duties and priorities are defined by federal statute and DOL/VETS policy.

This position is telework eligible. Staff are provided with the tools and equipment to be successful in a virtual work environment. Please note, the telework policy could change with notice based on business needs.

This position requires weekly travel for on-site meetings at different CareerForce locations throughout the metro.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following to qualify. See: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/197.447

Is a United States citizen or resident alien who separated under honorable conditions from any branch of the armed forces of the United States after having served on active duty (not active duty for training) for 181 consecutive days or was separated by reason of disability incurred while serving on active duty.

OR met the minimum active duty requirements as defined in 38 Code of Federal Regulations §3.12a (covers Reserve and National Guard members called up for Federal active duty).

OR has certain active military service certified under Federal Law (World War II service by particular groups, such as the Merchant Marine).

Please provide a legible copy of your DD214 (Member Copy 4) by the closing date for this position. Please ensure your DD214 is uploaded as a single document to the application.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

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. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.

Veteran, as defined in Minnesota Statute §197.447

Qualified Veterans must meet one (1) of the following:

One (1) year* of professional experience in career placement, vocational counseling, or closely related areas such as Social Services, Adult Education, or employee Training.

OR

Two (2) years* of para-professional experience in career placement, vocational rehabilitation services, social services, or in a role with similar functions.

• An associate degree (AA or AS) may substitute for six months of experience, as determined by the agency.
• Military experience as a non-commissioned officer (NCO) may substitute for 1 year of experience, as determined by the agency.

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

• Experience working with military and veteran organizations.
• Ability to form and grow connections with community partners in education and supportive services.
• Incumbent must maintain valid driver's license and insurance OR have other reliable transportation

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of workforce programs and AJC operations; ability to coordinate services across WIOA and Wagner-Peyser programs while upholding veterans’ priority of service.
• Experience working with military and veteran organizations.
• Experience providing case management services in a one-on-one environment.
• Experience in career counseling.
• Skills in communication to develop and maintain relationships to influence employment decisions.
• The ability to work effectively in both an individual and a professional team environment.
• Our employees are dedicated to ensuring cultural responsiveness. Preferred candidates will have a variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.

Additional Requirements

A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:

• Criminal Background Check
• Employment Records Check (current and former State employees only)
• Employment Reference Check
• Conflict of Interest Review
• Driver’s License and Records Check

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

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.

Connect 700 Program

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 Talent Acquisition at talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us.

Veterans

To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD-214 form and other required documentation to talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us by the closing date.

Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview.

Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non-competitive basis.

See the above links for criteria and eligibility.

Current State Employees

• Please apply via Self Service.
• If eligible for bidding or expression of interest: This vacancy will be open for bids/expression of interest and all qualified applicants simultaneously. Current employees of DEED who are currently in the same classification, who are eligible, and apply within the seven (7) day period will be considered prior to filling the position by other means.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Allex Roberge at allex.roberge@state.mn.us

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.

The Department of Employment and Economic Development is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employer, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply for job opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application and search tools, please contact Karen Lilledahl at Karen.Lilledahl@state.mn.us. Please indicate what assistance is needed.

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