Senior Communications Specialist

Patel, Greene and Associates (PGA) is seeking a driven and detail-oriented Senior Communications Specialist to join our team in an embedded role within District One DOT office in Fort Myers, FL. The Senior Communications Specialist provides comprehensive public information and communications support to advance FDOT’s mission, ensure transparency, and maintain effective engagement with the public, media, and stakeholders. This role supports day-to-day communications operations as well as urgent response needs. What You’ll Do Media Relations & Public Information Draft, edit, and distribute press releases, media advisories, and official statements. Prepare talking points, speeches, and remarks for executive leadership. Respond to media inquiries with accurate, timely, and well-researched information. Coordinate and conduct on-camera, radio, and print interviews as needed. Monitor media coverage and assist in proactive and reactive messaging. Content Development & Publications Produce feature stories and human-interest content highlighting FDOT projects and initiatives. Compile and publish the RoadWatch report and other recurring communications. Review, edit, and contribute to internal and external newsletters and publications. Maintain and update media distribution lists and stakeholder contact databases. Digital Media & Multimedia Production Develop, schedule, and manage content across FDOT social media platforms. Shoot, edit, and produce high-quality video and visual content. Ensure messaging aligns with FDOT branding and communication standards. Represent FDOT at public hearings, workshops, and community meetings. Engage with attendees, provide accurate project information, and address questions or concerns. Support community outreach initiatives and stakeholder engagement efforts. Assist in planning and execution of press conferences, ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings, and special events. Records Management & Compliance Review, research, and respond to public records requests, including JUSTFOIA inquiries, in accordance with applicable laws and policies. Ensure all communications meet public records requirements and retention standards. Website & Accessibility Review and update website content regularly to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and clarity. Ensure all digital content complies with ADA accessibility standards and best practices. Research & Issue Management Conduct research to support accurate responses to public, media, and stakeholder inquiries. Assist in developing communication strategies for sensitive or complex issues. Coordinate internally with subject matter experts to gather necessary information. Emergency Response Remain on call 24/7 to support communications during emergencies, incidents, or crisis situations. Develop and disseminate urgent messaging, including traffic alerts, detours, and safety information. Coordinate with internal teams and external agencies to ensure consistent, real-time communication. Timely press materials, advisories, and executive communications. Accurate and engaging digital and multimedia content. Regular publications (e.g., RoadWatch, newsletters). Documented responses to media, public inquiries, and records requests. Updated and ADA-compliant website content. Successful execution of outreach events and public engagement efforts. Performance Expectations Maintain professionalism, accuracy, and responsiveness at all times. Demonstrate strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills. Exercise sound judgment in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations. Collaborate effectively with internal teams, leadership, and external partners. Uphold FDOT’s standards for transparency, accountability, and public service. What You’ll Need Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business, or related field 5+ years of experience in marketing and digital media, preferred experience within the AEC industry Demonstrated experience managing company accounts of various social media platforms Related experience may be considered in lieu of the required education What You’ll Bring Proficient in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, and other Office Products Experience with Adobe Premiere Pro or other video editing software such as Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or similar. Proficient verbal and written communications skills and ability to interact with a variety of people Knowledge of, and demonstrated passion for, social media and content marketing in business context Attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management Prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines at the direction of PGA’s Leadership Team & Marketing Director Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards in all work efforts Ability to work independently and as part of a team on deadline-driven activities Working Conditions The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job including working on a computer, the employee is regularly required to sit for prolonged periods at a desk; use hands, handle, or feel, talk, and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization’s facilities. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In support of Patel, Greene and Associates’ mission to “elevate our families, communities, and profession,” we are committed to gathering the highest caliber of talent and creating an environment for each to collaborate and achieve their highest potential, ultimately delivering superior work to our clients. That means every position at PGA is open to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex (including gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, military service, or other non-merit factor. Our criteria is simple—you must be kind, hard-working, team-oriented, and have the potential to be excellent at your job. By following this approach, we have built a diverse team that has made PGA one of the best firms to work for in our industry. #J-18808-Ljbffr PGA