Early Career Communications and Public Involvement Specialist

WSP•South Jordan, UT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This opportunity involves joining WSP's Communications & Public Involvement Team to support, assist, and guide WSP projects and clients in public involvement, outreach, and communications. The specialist will also support other WSP communications and public involvement efforts as needed. This role is part of WSP’s National Communications & Public Involvement Practice and offers an exciting opportunity to join a national team of talented communications and public outreach/public information professionals.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Communications/Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism or a related field
0-1 years of communications experience in a technical industry or related field
Ability to work some nights and weekends, as needed
Outstanding oral, written and interpersonal communication skills
Superior organizational, time management and creative skills
Proven experience writing content for website, social media, and media notifications
Ability to understand and translate complex, technical information into easy-to-understand content for public consumption
High attention to detail; proofreading skills
Deadline driven with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
Proven experience using social media for outreach campaigns
Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher
Ability to work effectively with teams and demonstrate initiative to lead tasks
Ability to work well with the public and interact effectively with all organizational levels, including senior management

Nice To Haves

Communications/public involvement experience with infrastructure or transportation
Work experience in public information and communication for transportation, design or construction projects

Responsibilities

Serve as a liaison between projects and the community
Implement effective public outreach strategies for high profile transportation projects as needed
Take initiative and ownership of public involvement tasks to develop effective strategies that solicit feedback and input from the public
Develop strategic messages that educate the community on the purpose, need, benefits and perceived impacts of projects and programs
Coordinate and participate in public meetings and community events with various neighborhood groups or other stakeholders as assigned
Provide guidance on responses to public inquiries and escalated stakeholder issues
Implement strategic social media outreach plans including the research, writing and vetting of various posts (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram etc.)
Research and write content for a variety of communication channels, including website, social media, talking points, presentations, marketing materials and media notifications
Monitor, archive and escalate media coverage of project issues
Research and possibly respond to a variety of media requests in a timely manner
Analyze the effectiveness of outreach campaigns, including website and social media content
Direct the work of support services such as graphic design, website development, video, and photography
Work closely with project teams and clients on communications alignment with agency priorities and program messaging
Attend external project, agency, and community meetings to provide public involvement updates and identify public involvement issues
Identify opportunities for community and professional involvement for the project team
Build strong relationships with clients and assist with business development activities
Interact in a clear and concise manner with a variety of diverse audiences
Perform other duties as assigned or required by WSP USA Inc. and our clients