Communications Specialist 3

The Communications Department acts as the agency’s primary channel to interact with the media and various stakeholder groups across the region. The team is responsible for the distribution of information to the media regarding Metra services, policies and initiatives. Members of the department also respond to all customer emails, maintain and interact with the public via social media channels, and oversee Metra’s website (metra.com). The Communications team works with departments across the agency to maintain accurate and updated data on the website and to develop and integrate new content. The department is also responsible for Metra’s print and design services and the production of the agency’s graphic materials.

Reporting to the Manager, Social Media and Graphic Design, the Communications Specialist 3 plans, coordinates, and executes social and digital media communications campaigns, events, and publications that promote and enhance the public′s awareness of Metra′s services, mission, and brand. The position also functions as a spokesperson, responding to social media and customer inquiries.

The primary duties include: Create, document, and execute conceptual ideas and designs, pre and post-production of video, and written dialogue; and post and oversee distribution via multiple outlets including social and traditional media and internal communications. Interview individuals for news events; research, collect, and analyze information; and draft, produce, and publish or post final product. Serve as an auxiliary spokesperson managing activity and inquiries on media outlets. Function as lead to generate innovative concepts, plans, content creation, and campaigns to increase ridership and foster public and customer feedback via digital and social media content. Monitor media stories relative to public transportation; and create content to communicate Metra's programs, initiatives, and events. Works under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. Shares 24-hour on-call duties. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Requirements:

1. Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing, English, or Graphic Design. 
2. In addition to #1, must have a minimum of five years of experience performing journalism, communications, or marketing work. 
3. Considerable knowledge of social media channels e.g., Facebook, Twitter , LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. 
4. Good knowledge and understanding of print, broadcast media, digital media, and video production. 
5. Good knowledge of proper grammar. 
6. Strong organizational skills. 
7. Strong verbal, and written communication skills using proper grammar and writing styles. 
8. High level of proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, especially Premier Pro, Illustrator, After Effects, InDesign, Animate, Final Cut, or Photoshop. 
9. Proficient using Microsoft Office 365. 
10. Must be able to develop and execute social media communications plans. 
11. Must be able to function in an often stressful and deadline-driven environment. 
12. Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit, for extended periods of time. 
13. Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision. 
14. Ability to lift and move up to 20 pounds. 
15. Must be able to operate a vehicle. 
16. Must be willing to travel within Metra’s 6-county region. 
17. Must be available on-call 24-hours/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year, including weekends and holidays.

Metra requires all new-hire employees to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination prior to their first day of employment.

Candidates can expect salary offers that range fromvthe minimum to the mid-point of the salary range.

Metra provides full pay ranges so candidate can consider their growth potential. Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.