Public Relations Manager /Stakeholder Engagement Specialist

AECOM • Novi, MI

1d • $95,000 - $135,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

This position functions as a Public Relations Manager /Stakeholder Engagement Specialist and subject matter expert for projects being developed and delivered by AECOM. AECOM performs engineering services to develop and deliver various projects for MDOT and other clients (local agencies, transit agencies, universities, etc.), including some of the most complex transportation projects throughout the State. MDOT and other clients are relying on consultants more often to assist or lead stakeholder engagement activities. This position will support this need. This position will work closely with our clients to manage and lead stakeholder outreach for our projects. The person in this position operates independently with limited guidance and is expected to have working knowledge engagement and communication protocols and best practices.

Requirements

• BA/BS + 8 YORE or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education

Nice To Haves

• Extensive experience (5+ years) in public involvement, stakeholder engagement, or public‑sector communications, ideally within transportation, infrastructure, or government agencies.
• Proven ability to translate complex technical, regulatory, or engineering concepts into clear, accessible communications for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing multi‑channel communication strategies, including fact sheets, newsletters, presentations, reports, press releases, websites, and social media content.
• Experience planning and facilitating public meetings, workshops, surveys, open houses, and focus groups, both virtual and in-person.
• Knowledge of FHWA public involvement requirements, NEPA processes, and environmental review communication best practices.
• Experience partnering with creative teams (graphic design, video, web) to produce professional, high-quality outreach materials.
• Strong writing and editing expertise, with the ability to craft messaging aligned to organizational goals and brand standards.
• Demonstrated success in building community relationships, improving visibility, and promoting programs or initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and Implement Stakeholder Engagement Plans for projects delivered by AECOM.
• Lead the facilitation of Public Meetings, Public Hearings, and Outreach Events.
• Manage communication channels and coordinate with project teams and clients.
• Address and resolve stakeholder concerns.
• Identify key stakeholders (public agencies, local communities, advocacy groups, businesses).
• Create engagement strategies tailored to project phases (planning, design, construction).
• Develop communication materials such as fact sheets, FAQs, and project updates.
• Establish feedback mechanisms (surveys, comment forms, virtual platforms).
• Organize and lead public meetings, public hearings, open houses, and workshops.
• Coordinate logistics (venue, virtual platforms, accessibility accommodations).
• Lead the preparation efforts for presentations and visual aids to explain project impacts and benefits.
• Document stakeholder input and help incorporate feedback into project decisions.
• Maintain a stakeholder comment log and track responses.
• Track commitments and mitigation measures related to stakeholder concerns.
• Maintain project websites and social media accounts for timely updates.
• Draft press releases and newsletters to inform stakeholders.
• Respond to inquiries from the public and media promptly and professionally.
• Monitor engagement metrics to evaluate outreach effectiveness.
• Serve as liaison between engineering/design teams and stakeholders.
• Coordinate with environmental staff to maintain compliance with agency requirements for public involvement (e.g., NEPA, Section 106).
• Develop issue resolution protocols for complaints or conflicts.
• Escalate unresolved issues to project leadership with recommended solutions.

Benefits

• AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level