ST. PAUL--The State of Minnesota ranked forty nine among all employers nationally in a new Best Employers for New Graduates study conducted by Forbes. The study ranked 250 employers based on their working conditions, salary wage, image, workplace, diversity, atmosphere, and development. The State of Minnesota is also the highest-ranked public sector employer and the only state government system to make the list. 

“It is exciting that the State of Minnesota is recognized as a national leader in providing career opportunities for new college graduates,” said Myron Frans, Commissioner of Management and Budget for the State of Minnesota.  “State government is unique because we have just about every job type there is, many opportunities for growth, and our employees truly make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.”

Under Governor Dayton’s leadership, the State has worked hard to become an employer of choice. From the launch of a fresh, unified brand, to programs aimed at diversifying the workforce, to enhanced benefits like paid parental leave, the State is actively competing for the best talent. State leaders have also made training, development, and a respectful workplace a priority to help keep and develop new recruits.

The magazine partnered with market research company Statista for the inaugural list. Along with the State of Minnesota, five Minnesota companies made Forbes’ list.

Here are the five Minnesota companies on the list:

• #12 Overall, General Mills (38,000 employees) 
• #49 Overall, State of Minnesota Government Services (50,000 employees) 
• #59 Overall, Mayo Clinic Healthcare and Social (63,078 employees) 
• #70 Overall, University of Minnesota—Twin Cities (17,897 employees) 
• #235 Overall, 3M (36,000 employees) 

The study follows the recent ranking by WalletHub naming Minnesota the Third Best State for Jobs. The data further affirms that Minnesota offers new job seekers robust opportunities to start and grow their careers.

Other Top Rankings

This new study follows other recent recognitions of Minnesota’s successes. Below, see some of Minnesota’s other top rankings from recent years.

#1 Best-Run State

Minnesota is the best-run state in the nation, according to a study published by USA Today that cites Minnesota’s strong fiscal management, low unemployment and poverty rates, above-average median household income, and the state’s nearly perfect credit rating. Since ranking tenth in 2012, Minnesota has consistently climbed in the rankings under the same study, including ranking second last year.

#1 Best State for Women

Minnesota is the best state for women, according to a study from WalletHub. The study looked at women’s wages, health and safety, and economic and social well-being across all fifty states.

#2 Best State for Families

Minnesota is the #2 Best State to Raise a Family, according to a report from WalletHub. The study looked at family salaries, education opportunities, family fun, health and safety, affordability, employment rates, and more.

 #2 Best State Overall

Minnesota is the #2 Best State in America, according to a study from U.S. News and World Report. The study cited economic opportunities, great educations, and quality health care in Minnesota.

#3 Best State for Jobs

Minnesota is the #3 Best State for Jobs, according to a study by WalletHub. The study cites Minnesota’s job-market strength, opportunities, and our healthy economy among its top factors.
Learn more about careers at the State of Minnesota and apply for jobs at mn.gov/careers. The State plans to host a career fair on November 3 in St. Paul. Watch for details at mn.gov/careers.

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Media Contact:
Chris Kelly, Minnesota Management and Budget
Phone: 651-259-3692
Email: chris.kelly@state.mn.us