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

The TSM&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 DevelopmentDraft and distribute communications materials, including:Press releasesEmail communicationsTechnical articlesAward submissionsNews briefsDraft social media content for posting by D7 PIO Office Marketing collateralManage and respond to public inquiries related to TSM&O/RTMC programs, projects, and servicesCoordinate with internal and external partners to research and resolve customer issuesLead collaboration and cross-promotion efforts, including but not limited to:Other FDOT DistrictsFDOT Central OfficeFlorida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE)Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA)Transit agenciesFlorida Highway Patrol (FHP)Local and County agenciesLocal Universities and CollegesCommunity OrganizationsNon-profitsIdentify and implement improvements to public information processes and service deliveryRecommend and support new tools, technologies, and communication strategiesIdentify and coordinate training opportunities related to communication, customer service, and program messagingSupport TSM&O Manager and staff in preparing correspondence, meeting PowerPoints and other reports pertaining to outreachRecommend and support geofencing effortsProvide 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 fieldMinimum of four (4) years of experience in public information, communications, or related disciplineDemonstrated experience in media relations and/or crisis communicationsProven 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 preferredExperience engaging with stakeholders, including public officials, partner agencies, and the general publicStrong customer service and public interaction experienceExperience presenting in public forums, media engagements, or conferencesProficiency with modern communication tools and platformsAbility to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environmentProven 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 preferredExperience engaging with stakeholders, including public officials, partner agencies, and the general publicStrong customer service and public interaction experienceExperience presenting in public forums, media engagements, or conferencesProficiency with modern communication tools and platformsAbility to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environmentStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to translate technical transportation and engineering concepts into clear public messagingExperience working collaboratively with government agencies and stakeholdersConfidence in public speaking, media engagement, and formal presentationsStrategic mindset for branding, outreach, and program promotionAbility to manage multiple deadlines and produce accurate, high-quality workAwareness of current trends in communications, marketing, and public engagementFDOT experience or knowledge of TSM&O conceptsAccreditation (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. #transportationsystemsmanagementoperationscommunityoutreachspecialist What’s In It For You 401(k) with immediate matching and no vesting periodGenerous Paid-Time-Off [PTO] benefitsComprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverageLife insuranceMedical reimbursement plansDisability coverageEducation assistance program Iteris, Inc. is a provider of smart mobility infrastructure management solutions and part of the Almaviva Group businesses serving the transportation and logistics industry. Iteris’ cloud-enabled solutions help public transportation agencies, municipalities, commercial entities, and other transportation infrastructure providers monitor, visualize, and optimize mobility infrastructure to make mobility safe, efficient, and sustainable. As a pioneer in intelligent transportation systems technology, Iteris’ advanced detection sensors, mobility and traffic data, software-as-a-service offerings, and consulting services represent a comprehensive range of mobility infrastructure management solutions that serve customers in the United States and internationally. For more information, visit Iteris’ website at www.iteris.com. The Almaviva Group designs, implements, and manages advanced technological solutions and systems and related logistics structures for companies and public administrations operating in a variety of sectors, including, but not limited to, transport, logistics, agriculture, digital health, defense and security, energy, utilities, financial services, industry, telecommunications, and media. For more information, visit Almaviva’s website at www.almaviva.it. Iteris, Inc. is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender identity and expression, color, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), national origin/ancestry, religion, military/veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status or any other characteristic and group protected by applicable law. Iteris, Inc. complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure equal access to all qualified individuals with a physical or mental disability. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. A valid driver’s license may be required based on essential duties.