Fellow - Planner

Job Details

Working Title: Fellow
Job Class: Planner
Agency: Council on Asian Pacific Americans

• Job ID: 91689
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Part-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Limited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 01/28/2026
• Closing Date: 02/11/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Council on Asian Pacific Americans (CAPM)
• Division/Unit: Council on Asian Pacific Americans
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $23.98 - $34.69 / hourly
• Classified Status: Unclassified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees
• End Date: 09/01/2026
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No

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

The Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, a nonpartisan, non-cabinet executive branch agency, seeks a highly motivated individual to join the team for a part-time, paid fellowship.

The Council, per Minn. Stat. § 15.0145, subd. 6, performs studies designed to suggest solutions to the problems of the Asian Pacific community in Minnesota in the areas of education, employment, human rights, health, housing, social welfare, and other related areas. The Council is the designated expert on Minnesotans of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage, using its expertise to advise the legislative and executive branches of state government on policies pertaining to Minnesota’s Asian and Pacific Islander populations, advocate on behalf of their interests in state government, and serve as the liaison between these Minnesotans and state government.

This position will have a demonstrated interest in the intersection between Asian Pacific Minnesotan communities and public policy, a nuanced understanding of the historical and current socio-political structures of Asian and Pacific Island countries, and a strong commitment to conducting research in a manner that reflects understanding and empathy for Minnesotans who have historically been disengaged from government.

This position will work closely with the Council’s Legislative and Public Affairs Director during the legislative session to advocate on policy initiatives aligned with the Council’s legislative agenda. This position will be expected to perform a wide variety of duties at the intersection of communities and public policy, drawing on their personal and professional knowledge of Minnesota’s Asian and Pacific Islander populations. During periods outside of the legislative session, policy fellows will conduct research and engage with community members and organizations to enhance the council’s understanding of developing priorities within Asian Pacific Minnesotan communities.

Please note this is a temporary part-time position working 20 hours per week for up to six (6) months, with a current expected end date of on or around September 1st, 2026.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Two (2) years of experience in a role focused on project management, planning, or data analysis.
• Ability or experience in drafting reports, testimony, and/or public communications.
• Ability to conduct research and synthesize information from multiple sources.
• Experience with social media and public communications for community outreach.

An associate's degree in public policy, law, social sciences, or a related field may substitute for 6 months of experience.

A bachelor’s degree in public policy, law, social sciences, or a related field may substitute for 12 months of experience.

Minimum qualifications accessed during the interview:

• Understanding of Asian Pacific Minnesotan communities and their socio-political context.
• Ability to work collaboratively and professionally with diverse stakeholders, including community organizations and government officials.
• Demonstrated wide-ranging interests in various social issues, including but not limited to education, health, human rights, housing, immigration, economics, etc. and flexibility navigating various topic areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in public policy, law, social sciences, or a related field.
• Experience working with Asian Pacific Islander communities or in a legislative/public policy environment.
• Familiarity with Minnesota legislative processes and advocacy strategies.

Additional Requirements

Successful applicants must pass background and employment reference checks prior to employment. A criminal history does not automatically disqualify an applicant, and each case will be reviewed individually in alignment with fair hiring practices.

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 Matthew Leo at matthew.leo@state.mn.us or 651-201-2393.

About the Council of Asian Pacific Americans

The Council works toward economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesotans of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) heritage. The Council is charged with advocating on behalf of Minnesota’s API communities, so the Council’s decisions and actions must meaningfully contribute to their well-being.

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

Your benefits include:

• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being.

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• 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.