Transportation Systems Management & Operations Community Outreach Specialist [Tampa, FL]

The TSM&O Community Outreach Specialist supports the District Seven Transportation Systems Management & Operations (TSM&O) Office in advancing its core mission of improving the safety, security, and efficiency of the state transportation system. Serving as the primary liaison between the TSM&O Office, District PIO Office, and the public, media, stakeholders, and elected officials, the COS leads all internal and external communications efforts for TSM&O. This role also serves as the communications bridge, translating complex technical TSM&O information into clear, accessible messaging for the public and partners. This role is responsible for crafting messaging, strengthening brand identity, and promoting a positive public image of the program and its services.

What you will be doing:

Serve as the primary communications liaison for TSM&O.Coordinate with the oversight of FDOT District Seven Public Information Office (PIO) staff on media relations.Act as media spokesperson when requested and provide guidance during crisis communications.Develop and execute public information campaigns to educate the public on TSM&O.Content DevelopmentDraft and distribute communications materials, including:

Press releasesEmail communicationsTechnical articlesAward submissionsNews briefsDraft social media content for posting by D7 PIO Office Marketing collateral

Manage and respond to public inquiries related to TSM&O/RTMC programs, projects, and servicesCoordinate with internal and external partners to research and resolve customer issuesLead collaboration and cross-promotion efforts, including but not limited to:

Other FDOT DistrictsFDOT Central OfficeFlorida's Turnpike Enterprise (FTE)Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA)Transit agenciesFlorida Highway Patrol (FHP)Local and County agenciesLocal Universities and CollegesCommunity OrganizationsNon-profits

Identify and implement improvements to public information processes and service deliveryRecommend and support new tools, technologies, and communication strategiesIdentify and coordinate training opportunities related to communication, customer service, and program messagingSupport TSM&O Manager and staff in preparing correspondence, meeting PowerPoints and other reports pertaining to outreachRecommend and support geofencing effortsProvide graphic design support

What you need to be successful in this role:

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Public Administration, or a related fieldMinimum of four (4) years of experience in public information, communications, or related disciplineDemonstrated experience in media relations and/or crisis communicationsProven ability to develop professional communications materials (e.g., press releases, public advisories, reports)Experience working with government agencies, transportation programs, or similar public-sector environments preferredExperience engaging with stakeholders, including public officials, partner agencies, and the general publicStrong customer service and public interaction experienceExperience presenting in public forums, media engagements, or conferencesProficiency with modern communication tools and platformsAbility to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environmentProven ability to develop professional communications materials (e.g., press releases, public advisories, reports)Experience working with government agencies, transportation programs, or similar public-sector environments preferredExperience engaging with stakeholders, including public officials, partner agencies, and the general publicStrong customer service and public interaction experienceExperience presenting in public forums, media engagements, or conferencesProficiency with modern communication tools and platformsAbility to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environmentStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to translate technical transportation and engineering concepts into clear public messagingExperience working collaboratively with government agencies and stakeholdersConfidence in public speaking, media engagement, and formal presentationsStrategic mindset for branding, outreach, and program promotionAbility to manage multiple deadlines and produce accurate, high-quality workAwareness of current trends in communications, marketing, and public engagementFDOT experience or knowledge of TSM&O conceptsAccreditation (Accredited in Public Relations (APR), Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC), etc.)Experience with emergency response communications

Iteris anticipates paying an hourly rate of $33.00 for this role.

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