Communications Representative RLE

Conducts research and gathers information concerning RLE projects services and initiatives from various Project Team or Authority staff or external contacts. Uses findings to develop draft responses for the Directors consideration to RLE-related media or public inquiries and to prepare RLE-related press event materials and background information.

Creates social media content including videos; monitors RLE Facebook Twitter and Instagram accounts; coordinates with CTA social media staff. Creates draft written content and videos for CTAs RLE project web site with new information and graphics.

Drafts RLE press documents RLE press event materials and RLE background information according to Authority standard and guidelines. Coordinates the planning and development of RLE-related press events. Responsible for day-of-event and on-site coordination of press events. Includes written and video content.

Represents CTA/RLE at various RLE-related community meetings events and activities.

Gathers content for RLE presentations and works with team to prepare presentations for external and internal audiences.

Performs related duties as assigned.

MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to this position are the following jobs:

Job Title

None

CHALLENGES

Gathering information on a wide range of subjects and condensing complex subjects into simpler explanations.

Determining appropriate sources to provide accurate information on a wide variety of subjects.

Managing multiple projects assignments and deadlines using effective prioritization skills.

Maintain awareness of CTA bus and rail system RLE project as well as the various communities within the RLE project footprint and in the city to properly respond to various inquiries.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelors degree in Journalism English Communications or a related field plus two (2) years of professional experience in radio TV or print media a public relations agency or government communications office in a major news market or a combination of education and experience relating to this position.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires sitting for extended periods of time standing visual acumen manual dexterity and fingering for working with computer keyboards.

May be required to traverse any part of the CTA system such as along tracks catwalks and emergency stairs from subway or through shop work areas while adhering to safety rules.

Will attend community events in the RLE project area as a representative of CTA and RLE; may include event setup staffing and teardown.

Service Area Requirement: Exempt (Non-Union) employees must live within the boundaries of the CTA Statutory Service Area either at the time of employment or within 6 months of beginning employment at CTA.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Working knowledge of the principles and practices of communications representation.

Working knowledge of public relations techniques.

Working knowledge of the preparation and use of all types of informational media including digital/social media newspaper television radio and video publicity programs.

Working knowledge of proper English usage spelling and grammar including Associated Press writing style.

Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word Excel PowerPoint and Outlook skills.

Strong verbal and written communications skills.

Strong editing skills.

Good public speaking and presentation skills.

Ability to gather data produce written copies and meet deadlines.

Ability to produce simple videos that promote the Authority.

Ability to prepare and distribute such media devices as news releases photographs and fact sheets.

Ability to make presentations and speak before groups regarding department programs.

Ability to plan and conduct public relations programs.

Ability to communicate effectively with others.

Ability to maintain favorable public relations.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General office environment.

Required to travel to various CTA transit property locations and various locations within the Chicagoland area.

Must be able to work extra hours in emergency situations or for special events such as public hearings or employee events as well as normal office hours.

EQUIPMENT TOOLS AND MATERIALS UTILIZED

Standard office equipment.

Personal computer and related software.

SALARY

$86610.40

POSITION SUMMARY

Under direction from the Director Communications - RLE this position is responsible for a wide range of external and internal communications duties including: creating social media accounts content and monitoring social media activity related to the Red Line Extension project; proactive and reactive media relations; talking points and speeches; collateral materials; marketing materials; and various other communications activities.