Senior Communications Specialist - Transportation

The Metropolitan Council is seeking to hire a full-time Senior Communications Specialist. All applications must be submitted by January 14, 11:59 pm CST.

As a Senior Communications Specialist - Transportation you will manage communications and organize outreach efforts related to the Metropolitan Council's programs and policies - particularly transportation-related programs and policies. This position will develop and implement communications plans, events and activities that engage citizen groups, policymakers, business organizations, government officials, and the public in Council decision-making. This position will serve as a liaison with external organizations, including community organizations and other government agencies (cities, counties, the state). This position will also help implement new engagement methods detailed in the Council's draft Public Engagement Plan.

Examples of Duties:

• Identify constituents and develop strategies to communicate with and engage organizations and individuals that are potentially affected by, or that are interested or participants in Council programs, projects, actions, activities and decision-making. 
• Serve as communications liaison to the transportation planning division, as well as with other Council programs, as appropriate. 
• Develop materials and communications vehicles and strategies to ensure clear, effective and consistent communications that help better inform and educate the public and constituencies about the Council. 
• Write, edit, and produce communications for a variety of audiences and vehicles (including the web, print, and social media). Participate in development of web and other communication vehicles that help to engage the public and facilitate public participation and input. 
• Consult with, advise, and participate with Council staff on development and implementation of communications and outreach strategies and vehicles, and ensure clear and consistent communications with Council constituencies. 
• Plan, develop and implement outreach activities and vehicles, such as one-on-one interactions, small- or large-group discussions, public meetings/forums, public hearings, and other activities that promote public education and foster public input and inclusion in thedecision-making process. 
• Work with Council members and staff to develop outreach materials and presentations, and coach and mentor technical staff in developing communications, presentation, and outreach skills. 
• Work with Council members and staff, and external constituencies to inform the long-term transportation strategy of the Council with regard to communications and community engagement. Embed best practices and strategies for community engagementinto the organizations' standing business practices. 
• Represent the Council, as assigned, at public events and meetings, and serve as a liaison between the Council and affected communities and constituencies. 
• Coordinate with other outreach and program staff to engage historically under-represented communities (which includes communities of color, Native American populations, immigrantand new American communities, disabled people and communities, youth, older residents, and low-wealth people and communities). 
• Consult with, advise and participate with Council staff on development and implementation of project-specific communications, outreach and engagement strategies and vehicles to better bridge gaps between successful community engagement models and traditional public policy outreach efforts. 
• Respond knowledgeably to inquiries about the Council. 
• Write for various Council print and online publications, and as needed for other communication purposes. 
• Advise on and provide public notice of Council events, meetings, and activities. 
• Perform administrative tasks, such as setting up meetings, coordinating schedules, taking notes, maintaining lists, coordinating mailings, etc.

Qualifications:

To be considered for this position you must meet one of the following:

• Bachelor's degree in Public Affairs, Communications, Marketing, Public Administration, Cultural Studies or related field AND three (3) years of related professional level experience in community advocacy, community relations, public relations or communications.

OR

• Associate Degree in Public Affairs, Communications, Marketing, Public Administration, Cultural Studies or related field AND five (5) years of related professional level experience in community advocacy, community relations, public relations or communications.

Equivalency:

• High School Diploma or equivalent AND seven (7) years of related professional level experience in community advocacy, community relations, public relations or communications.

Following are highly desired in addition to one of the above:

• Current or recent experience in a communications and/or outreach role 
• Demonstrable experience in writing and producing published communications materials 
• Current or recent experience planning for and managing significant communications/engagement efforts
• Social media experience 
• Experience with and interest in transportation issues

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement communications, community advocacy, community relations, marketing, event planning and public relations strategies. 
• Understanding of and experience managing social media tools, electronic mailing platforms, and visual communications methods. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
• English proficiency skills. 
• Ability to speak a second language preferred. 
• Knowledge of equity principles and engagement best practices. 
• Knowledge of transportation issues and operations. 
• Ability to identify, recruit, organize and mobilize selected constituencies. 
• Ability to speak effectively. 
• Knowledge and understanding of Council policies and procedures. 
• Knowledge and understanding of Council's relationships to cities, counties, state agencies, the governor's office and the Legislature. 
• Ability to identify, recruit, organize and mobilize selected constituencies. 
• Ability to speak effectively. 
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with Council members, staff and others to ensure a high degree of cooperation and efficiency. 
• Ability to handle conflict situations and resolve problems. 
• Ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality. 
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.