Data Release Specialist

About the Position

The Saint Paul Police Department is seeking a Data Release Specialist to join our team in a critical role supporting investigative and public data transparency efforts. In this position, you will work with digital evidence systems—including body-worn cameras, dash cams, and CCTV—and ensure that data is handled, redacted, and released in compliance with the Minnesota Data Practices Act and federal guidelines. This role blends technical skills, legal understanding, and public service in a fast-paced law enforcement environment.

Here’s what you can expect to do:

• Collect, assess, redact, and prepare digital media evidence (video/audio) from various sources for investigative and public release.

• Respond to data requests from internal departments, the public, attorneys, and prosecutors in accordance with legal timelines and privacy laws.

• Act as a subject matter expert on digital evidence systems, helping troubleshoot technical issues and advising staff on best practices.

• Collaborate with investigative and legal teams, ensuring evidence integrity and accuracy for court proceedings, including potential courtroom testimony.

• Stay current on data privacy laws and digital evidence standards to help improve internal procedures and ensure legal compliance.

For more information and essential functions, see our Data Release Specialist job description.

Our Benefits: We offer competitive wages, and a variety of excellent benefits (Download PDF reader), including health insurance, retirement contributions and paid vacation and sick time.

Equity, Inclusion and Belonging: The City of Saint Paul is dedicated to dismantling systemic racial, cultural, and economic barriers that prevent people from fully enjoying and participating in our community and ensuring fairness in opportunities and outcomes for all individuals. At the City of Saint Paul, we want our workforce to reflect the diverse city that we serve. Our leaders are guided by an unapologetic equity agenda, which promotes the belief that true equity is building a city that works for all of us. We encourage you to apply as we are most interested in finding the best candidate for this job.

Position Requirements

Must obtain and maintain certification as a Forensic Video Technician (CFVT) or Forensic Video Analyst (CFVA), or equivalent within 12 months of hire.

Must possess and maintain a valid Minnesota Class D Driver's License or equivalent out-of-state driver's license.

Plus one of the following:

• Three years of related experience such as: handling digital media evidence—such as footage from body cameras, dashcams, or surveillance systems—for investigations or legal proceedings. Experience in law enforcement support, digital forensics, legal compliance, surveillance management, data privacy, evidence sharing, or court testimony

• Associate’s Degree with coursework in criminology, project management, data analytics, paralegal, law enforcement, communication, information science, or a related field and one year of related experience as listed above.

How to Apply

• Submit a City of Saint Paul online application by the closing date.
• Upload or submit the following document via the online application system. (Zip files and web links will not be accepted. Each uploaded attachment is limited to 10MB.)
  • A resume (optional)

Learn more about our Hiring Process

Assessment: Qualifications Rating

The Qualifications Rating is an assessment of your completed application and answers to the Supplemental Questionnaire. Be as specific and detailed as possible in completing your application and questionnaire. You must submit your completed application and supplemental questionnaire by the application deadline.

Open Job Posting: This posting is open to anyone who meets the position requirements.

Final Selection Process: You must receive a score of 75% or higher to pass the assessment and be considered for the position. Those who pass will be placed on an eligible list and all will be notified of their status. A Hiring Manager will consider those applicants eligible for hire. You will be notified if you are invited to participate in the final selection process which may include an interview, job simulation, work sample submission, or other evaluation method.

Pre-Employment Screening: This position will require a thorough Saint Paul Police Department background check which includes criminal history, and employment history as a condition of employment. Candidates will be required to submit proof of education to Human Resources upon conditional job offer, if qualifying based on education.

Human Resources Contact Information:

Ellen Friedman at 651-266-6533

Email: ellen.friedman@stpaul.gov

Veteran’s Preference: If you are a veteran and would like to receive Veteran’s preference in accordance with MN Statute 197.455, you must submit a photocopy of your DD214 preferably at time of application. Click here for more information.

• Health Insurance
• Vacation/Holidays
• Sick Leave
• Life Insurance
• Subsidized Metro Bus Pass
• Deferred Compensation
• Retirement Program

• Dental
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Disability Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Long Term Care Insurance