Media Representative

Job Description - Media Representative (2600005E) Salary : $98,615.81 - $101,081.21 Position Summary Under general supervision, responsible for a wide range of external and internal communications duties, including: proactive and reactive media relations; talking points and speeches; collateral materials; marketing materials; and various other communications activities. Will also assist with CTA social media channels. Primary Responsibilities Drafts and prepares press documents, press event materials, and background information according to Authority standard and guidelines. Seeks approval from management before publication and dissemination. Conducts research and gathers information concerning Authority projects, services, and initiatives from various Authority staff or external contacts. Uses findings to respond to media inquiries or to prepare press event materials and background information. Responds to media inquiries by conducting research and developing messaging. Provides responses for media inquiries or escalates more complicated and/or serious requests to management for response. Coordinates the planning and development of press events. Responsible for day‑of‑event and on‑site coordination of press events. Informs media of service issues in a timely manner so that information is provided to customers accurately and efficiently via various media outlets. Assists with planning and content development for social media channels. Develops and writes stories for trade publications and internal newsletters. Represents CTA at various community meetings, events and activities. Develops and coordinates materials for CTA speaking engagements. Performs related duties as assigned. Management Responsibilities Reporting to this position are the following jobs: Job Title Challenges Gathering information on a wide range of subjects and condensing complex subjects into simple explanations. Determining appropriate sources to provide accurate information on a wide variety of subjects. Managing multiple projects, assignments and deadlines using effective prioritization skills. Maintain awareness of bus and rail system and equipment as well as various communities in the city to properly respond to various inquiries. Education and Experience Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, English, Communications, or a related field, plus two (2) years of professional experience in radio, TV, or print media, a public relations agency, or government communications office in a major new market, or a combination of education and experience relating to this position. Physical Requirements May be required to move through any part of the CTA system, such as along tracks, catwalks, and emergency stairs from subway or through shop work areas while adhering to safety rules. Required to receive training on safe use of rail right of way. Requires remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time and constantly operating a computer and other office productivity machinery. Service Area Requirement: Exempt (Non‑Union) employees must live within the boundaries of the CTA Statutory Service Area either at the time of employment or within 6 months of beginning employment at CTA. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Working knowledge of the principles and practices of corporate communications. Working knowledge of public relations techniques. Working knowledge of the preparation and use of all types of informational media, including digital/social media, newspaper, television, radio and video publicity programs. Working knowledge of proper English usage, spelling, and grammar including Associated Press writing style. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook skills. Strong verbal and written communications skills. Good public speaking and presentation skills. Ability to gather data, produce written copies, and meet deadlines. Ability to prepare and distribute such media devices as news releases, photographs, and fact sheets. Ability to make presentations and speak before groups regarding department programs. Ability to plan and conduct public relations programs. Ability to communicate effectively with others. Ability to maintain favorable public relations. Working Conditions General office environment. Required to travel to various CTA transit property locations and various locations within the Chicagoland area. Must be able to work extra hours in emergency situations or for special events, such as public hearings or employee events, as well as normal office hours. Equipment, Tools and Materials Utilized Standard office equipment. Personal computer and related software. Equal Employment Opportunity No employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, ancestry, age, unfavorable military discharge, disability or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws, except where a bona fide occupational qualification exists. CTA is committed to providing an inclusive environment for our workforce and supporting the communities we serve. CTA will make reasonable accommodations for the known disabilities of otherwise qualified applicants for employment as well as its employees, unless undue hardship would result. If you require an accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io prior to the submission of your application or upon notification of your actual test date. CTA will work with you to determine if an accommodation can be provided. Applicants, if hired, must comply with CTA's residency ordinance. Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate and may be higher or lower than target. #J-18808-Ljbffr Chicago Transit Authority