Temporary Senior Public Relations Specialist
City of Seattle, WA - Seattle, WA
posted 5 days ago
About the position
The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) Communications & Public Engagement team is seeking a talented Senior Public Relations Specialist to manage SDOT's social media platforms and serve as a key media relations contact. This is a temporary position (6 months, with a potential extension to 1 year). This dynamic role involves creating engaging, public-focused content, responding to community feedback, analyzing performance metrics, and refining strategies. As the public face of SDOT in media interactions, you'll act as an on-the-record spokesperson, prepare press materials, and coach leadership on messaging and media engagement, including multicultural outreach. You'll also develop strategic communications, provide staff training, and support emergency communications during major incidents. This position is a unique opportunity to lead high-impact projects, shape public perceptions, and contribute to SDOT's mission of creating a safer, greener, and more equitable Seattle. We're looking for a positive, creative, and proactive professional with a passion for transparent and trust-building communications.
Responsibilities
- Manage SDOT's social media platforms (X [formerly Twitter], Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, Flickr).
- Create engaging, easy-to-read content like posts, photos, videos, and graphics to inform the public about SDOT projects.
- Monitor comments and respond to questions or customer concerns. Collaborate with project/program managers to provide solutions and updates.
- Analyze social media performance, track trends, and recommend strategy improvements.
- Research and respond to media inquiries; set up interviews and briefings with SDOT leadership as needed.
- Serve as an on-the-record spokesperson for SDOT, preparing materials like press releases, blog posts, and talking points.
- Coach leadership on media messaging and strategy while supporting inclusive efforts, such as translating materials and working with multicultural media outlets.
- Develop communication strategies and identify compelling stories that highlight SDOT's positive impact on creating a safer, greener, and more equitable Seattle.
- Provide communication advice and training materials for staff to ensure best practices are widely adopted.
- Support brand reputation, audience engagement, and transparency while maintaining confidentiality when handling sensitive information.
- Assist with emergency communications during major incidents, which may occasionally require early mornings, nights, or weekends.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations, or related fields.
- At least two years of experience managing or supporting social media, press relations, or public affairs efforts.
- Equivalent combinations of education and professional experience will be considered.
Nice-to-haves
- Strong knowledge of press relations, social media strategy, and public affairs, with expertise in messaging complex topics clearly and effectively.
- Experience advising senior staff, managing multiple priorities, and adapting in fast-paced environments.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and communication tools like MailChimp or GovDelivery.
- Intermediate graphic design knowledge using Adobe Creative Suite.
- Passion for impactful communication and public service.
- Comfort with managing multiple projects, working independently, and meeting deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including optimism, proactivity, and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset, to excel in a multicultural workplace with a diverse customer base.
Benefits
- Salary range of $45.74 - $53.27 per hour.
- Hybrid work schedule, with time split between SDOT's downtown Seattle office and remote work.
- Travel within Seattle as needed for events or project documentation.
- Occasional early morning, night, or weekend shifts may be required in response to specific needs.
