Public Outreach Coordinator

Responsibilities

• Support the development, implementation, and ongoing refinement of public involvement in compliance with applicable state and federal regulations, including requirements related to official public hearings, Title VI, ADA, and language access.
• Lead the planning and execution of comprehensive public outreach strategies that educate community organizations, stakeholders, and residents about HRT services, initiatives, and projects.
• Develop and implement targeted outreach plans and communication strategies tailored to specific audiences, including drafting community-facing content; tracking and organizing public comments; and coordinating timely responses to public inquiries.
• Serve as the department lead for public outreach related to service changes, including the introduction of new services and the modification or discontinuation of existing services. Coordinate follow-up activities to ensure accurate, consistent, and effective public communication.
• Plan, coordinate, and facilitate community meetings, public forums, outreach events, and engagement activities related to transit studies and agency initiatives including managing logistics, vendor support, and dissemination of information to maximize participation.
• Provide leadership and direction to public outreach staff and contractors, ensuring alignment with agency goals and outreach best practices; lead and participate in cross-departmental teams to support special initiatives and high-profile or sensitive projects.
• Act as primary liaison between HRT and the community, addressing questions and concerns, and maintaining strong working relationships with community leaders, neighborhood associations, advocacy groups, civic organizations, and partner agencies at the local, regional, and state levels.
• Design and manage inclusive public involvement approaches that address needs of diverse populations, including communities historically underserved by transportation systems, and support equity-focused initiatives.
• Coordinate HRT participation in community events, public education programs, disability advocacy activities, and other community relations efforts; collaborate with internal communications and marketing teams to support web-based outreach as appropriate.
• Maintains positive working relationships with community and neighborhood-based organizations, customer groups, private agencies, and other public agencies.

Requirements

• Knowledge and demonstrated skills and experience in developing and implementing community relations and public involvement plans.
• Knowledge of marketing, media and advertising principles and services is helpful.
• Knowledge of MS Office software is essential.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct quality research and maintain complete and accurate records and become an expert on HRT services and the field of transit.
• Must possess strong communication skills including writing and public speaking, to be able to communicate information clearly, accurately and effectively for a variety of audiences.
• Proficiency in using computer systems and the listed software applications associated with performance of assigned work is essential.
• Basic problem-solving skills associated with software applications used is expected.
• Software usage relevant to job duties will be evaluated.
• MS Office software
• Possess a valid Driver's License. Acquire a Virginia Driver's License within 60 days after the date of hire (in instances when an out of state license is not the applicant's current state of residence).

Preferred

• Experience in a transit agency, government, or nonprofit organization; familiarity with public involvement requirements, accessibility standards and equity-focused engagement practices is desirable.

Benefits

• We offer unmatched benefits and competitive wages in a stimulating and rewarding environment.