Media Relations Specialist

Under general supervision, assists in development and implementation of agency messaging, crisis messaging, media relations and digital communications (web and social media). Serves as agency’s primary media liaison and as public information officer (PIO) under FEMA Incident Command System structure. Writes and edits copy for news releases, brochures, speeches and other internal or external communications, as well as interacts with reporters, riders and the public in person and through digital channels, including through still photography and video. Represents the agency in public forums, at meetings and makes presentations as assigned.

1. Researches, conducts interviews and writes copy for news releases, speeches/statements, crisis situations, and other internal or external communications.
2. Develops portions of agency and crisis communications plans as assigned, and serves as liaison between agency and public in implementation of plans. Serves as PIO during Incident Command System situations.
3. Responds to media inquiries, arranges editorial meetings and media tours, and takes photographs and video at Community Transit events. Advises departments and project teams on media strategies for effective communication.
4. Develops concepts for website and social media to reach target audiences, writes copy, takes photos or video, and provides guidance to graphics personnel in development of visual aids, places posts and acts as liaison with customers and the general public.
5. Edits internal and external communications for agency reputation perspective; offers suggestions for improvements and rewrites when necessary.
6. Develops and implements processes for tracking and monitoring media coverage and interactions to ascertain success and results.
7. Assists in community outreach activities such as public hearings, focus groups, surveys, education/information presentations and special events
8. Develops and makes presentations as required in support of agency activities, including editorial board meetings, electronic communications, internal and external public relations, planning and other activities.
9. Assist in development of Agency Communications budget.
10. Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or related field.

Three years of experience in the field, including media contact and experience in writing news releases and taking digital photos and video, as well as experience creating social media and website content.

Valid Washington State Driver’s License.

Experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR:  KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Qualification to enter this position requires knowledge of the following:

1. A variety of writing styles;

2. Correct grammar, usage and punctuation;

3. FEMA PIO training and general public relations principles and practices;

4. Social media principles and website content management.

Qualification to enter this position requires skill in:

1. Creatively expressing a concept in writing using a variety of styles and types of copy, such as journalism, social media, promotions, advertising and speeches;

2. Representing a company or public agency to the media;

3. Use of personal computer and related word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software in a Windows environment (e.g., Word, Power Point, Excel).

4. Preparing and making presentations to public groups of various sizes;

5. Project management, organization and time management.

6. Communication and interpersonal relations as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Reaching, standing, walking, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, repetitive motions, carrying, pulling, pushing.

Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.  If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.

Involves local travel to meetings and events.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

On-line applications only at www.communitytransit.org.  Please attach a resume and cover letter for consideration.  The evaluation process may include interviews, background checks, reference checks and various performance tests. 

First Consideration Date: February 14th 11:59 PM

If you have a family member, or share the same living quarters of a current Community Transit employee, please let your Human Resources Recruiter know as your eligibility  for this position may be affected. 

Community Transit provides a tobacco-free and drug-free work environment.  As a recipient of federal funds, Community Transit is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on any basis prohibited by Federal, State or Local law.  We value and encourage diversity in our workforce.  EOE AA/M/F/Vet/Disability.  Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, protected veteran status or disability.