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Community Relations Specialist, Associate

  • Job
    Full-time
    Entry Level
  • Customer Relations
    Government & Politics
  • Orange

AI generated summary

  • You need a bachelor's in public relations or related field, preferred experience, knowledge of Orange County demographics, and strong communication skills. Must thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • You will assist in outreach programs, coordinate meetings, draft materials, monitor digital content, develop public participation strategies, and maintain relationships to support agency initiatives.

Requirements

  • Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or related field. Related experience preferred. Knowledge of Orange County demographics and transportation issues is desirable.
  • Work may be performed in a stressful, fast-paced office environment, depending upon assignment.
  • Requires ability to understand verbal communication and to respond effectively.
  • Positions in this class typically require: Reaching, Finger Dexterity, Grasping, Feeling, Talking, Hearing, Seeing, and Repetitive Motions in computer use.

Responsibilities

  • Assists in implementing public awareness and community and business outreach programs, ensuring the agency's mission and strategic goals are accomplished.
  • May assist with planning and coordinating all logistical requirements, i.e., agenda packets, committee notes, invitation process, etc., for various citizen committees, i.e., Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), Taxpayer Oversight Committee (TOC), Special Needs in Transit Advisory Committee (SNAC), Environmental Oversight Committee (EOC), etc. Provides logistical coordination that enhances the Agency’s image as well as emphasizes procedural transparency for citizen committees’ recruitment activities.
  • Drafts collateral materials and coordinates production/distribution.
  • Assists in staffing and coordinating project specific committees and stakeholder working groups.
  • Assists in the preparation and tracking of various communication metrics and internal reports/databases.
  • Monitors web and social media content for accuracy and relevance.
  • Attends project development team meetings for assigned projects and monitors activities requiring outreach assistance.
  • Attends professional development workshops/courses to continually enhance skills and industry knowledge.
  • Organizes, analyzes, interprets and clearly explains operational/technical policy information in simple terms.
  • Assists in maintaining working relationships with internal departments and external audiences for the development of agency services and programs.
  • Coordinates with consultants in planning and implementing community outreach meetings.
  • Communicates effectively, orally and in writing.
  • Assists with developing public participation programs to reflect the needs of the community utilizing public engagement tools including online surveys.
  • Assists in planning and implementing public forums, workshops, conferences, and special events.
  • Assists in the development of strategies that support agency’s implementation of a balanced transportation network.

FAQs

What is the job title for this position?

The job title is Community Relations Specialist, Associate.

What type of organization is OCTA?

OCTA is the county's transportation planning commission and public transit operator focused on planning, funding, and implementing transportation projects.

What are the key responsibilities of the Community Relations Specialist, Associate?

Key responsibilities include assisting with public participation programs, coordinating outreach efforts, drafting collateral materials, staffing public committees, monitoring web and social media content, and organizing community outreach meetings.

What qualifications are required for this position?

A bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field is required, along with related experience. Knowledge of Orange County demographics and transportation issues is desirable.

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range is from $30.97 to $43.36 per hour, depending on qualifications.

Is this position exempt or non-exempt?

This is a non-exempt position.

What kind of benefits does OCTA offer?

OCTA offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid leave, retirement plans, educational reimbursement, wellness programs, and free transportation passes for employees and their dependents.

What is the work environment like for this position?

The work environment may be stressful and fast-paced, requiring effective verbal communication, computer use, and other physical activities.

How does OCTA ensure equal employment opportunities?

OCTA recruits, hires, and promotes qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

What opportunities are there for professional development?

Employees are encouraged to attend professional development workshops and courses to enhance their skills and industry knowledge.

We keep Orange County moving.

Transportation
Industry
1001-5000
Employees
1991
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is Orange County’s primary transportation agency. OCTA was formed in 1991 through the consolidation of seven separate transportation agencies. A 17-member Board of Directors governs OCTA with the Caltrans District Director serving as the 18th member in an ex-officio capacity. OCTA Services Include: • Bus transit service • Metrolink rail service • 91 Express Lanes toll facility • Freeway improvements funding • Street and road improvements grants • Vanpool subsidies • Rideshare options