Communications Consultant 3-Tolling

Note: This position is open until filled.

The Opportunity:
 
Public outreach and education is key to the success of tolling in Washington state.  WSDOT is seeking a Communications Consultant 3 who will provide communications support for tolled projects and the Good To Go! program. The individual working in this position must establish positive working relationships with diverse agency colleagues including  customer service, operations and toll systems engineers to translate complex tolling concepts in formats that are easy for the public to understand.  
 
The Toll Division is seeking a qualified candidate who excels in writing, social media, media communications and writing for the website. In this position you will be responsible for responding to inquiries from the public, customers and media in an effective and timely manner. You will be expected to work independently to identify, research and respond to issues. The ideal candidate is highly motivated and able  to manage  projects that may include writing and designing reports, presentations, communications plans, brochures, writing news releases and web page content.

This position will perform the following work:

• Design and implement short and long term plans to meet public involvement needs.
• Develop WSDOT strategic messaging, respond to customer, and media questions, develop social media content, and create and implement communication plans.
• Translate complex ideas and policies for internal and external audiences.
• Work closely and develop positive relationships with other stakeholders concerning tolling to the community, customers and public officials. 
• Work in a 24/7 environment and be able to carry an on-call phone day and night. Other duties as assigned.

• A Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, journalism, public relations or related field and three years journalism or public relations experience. 
• Knowledge of writing and design for various news, feature, educational, Web, public affairs and other types of documents.   

• Knowledge of highway tolls and toll-related issues, particularly in areas related to public involvement.
• Knowledge of strategic communications, public relations, public involvement, customer service, transportation, media relations, community relations amongst a diverse audience.
• Professional experience with Microsoft Office products. 
• Ability to collaborate, resolve conflicts and communicate effectively, even with hostile individuals.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work despite tight deadlines, multiple customers and competing priorities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to foster and maintain productive working relationships even in times of stress and conflict.