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

TheTSM&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 Development
• Draft and distribute communications materials, including:
  • Press releases
  • Email communications
  • Technical articles
  • Award submissions
  • News briefs
  • Draft 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 services
• Coordinate with internal and external partners to research and resolve customer issues
• Lead collaboration and cross-promotion efforts, including but not limited to:
  • Other FDOT Districts
  • FDOT Central Office
  • Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE)
  • Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA)
  • Transit agencies
  • Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)
  • Local and County agencies
  • Local Universities and Colleges
  • Community Organizations
  • Non-profits
• Identify and implement improvements to public information processes and service delivery
• Recommend and support new tools, technologies, and communication strategies
• Identify and coordinate training opportunities related to communication, customer service, and program messaging
• Support TSM&O Manager and staff in preparing correspondence, meeting PowerPoints and other reports pertaining to outreach
• Recommend and support geofencing efforts
• Provide 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 field
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in public information, communications, or related discipline
• Demonstrated experience in media relations and/or crisis communications
• Proven 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 preferred
• Experience engaging with stakeholders, including public officials, partner agencies, and the general public
• Strong customer service and public interaction experience
• Experience presenting in public forums, media engagements, or conferences
• Proficiency with modern communication tools and platforms
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Proven 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 preferred
• Experience engaging with stakeholders, including public officials, partner agencies, and the general public
• Strong customer service and public interaction experience
• Experience presenting in public forums, media engagements, or conferences
• Proficiency with modern communication tools and platforms
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to translate technical transportation and engineering concepts into clear public messaging
• Experience working collaboratively with government agencies and stakeholders
• Confidence in public speaking, media engagement, and formal presentations
• Strategic mindset for branding, outreach, and program promotion
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and produce accurate, high-quality work
• Awareness of current trends in communications, marketing, and public engagement
• FDOT experience or knowledge of TSM&O concepts
• Accreditation (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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