Outreach & Engagement Administrator

Outreach And Engagement Administrator

Cascade East Transit is looking for an Outreach And Engagement Administrator located in Bend, OR. The successful applicant will bring direct experience in community outreach and engagement, working with diverse groups, and a dedication to public service. Pay range $31.51-$52.09 / Hourly, DOE and Qualifications. Preference given for applicants with experience working in a public transportation environment or public service. Come join the CET team and work for a growing organization serving and doing great things in Central Oregon!

Job Title Outreach And Engagement Administrator

Hours Typically, normal business hours

Position based in Bend, OR

Benefits include health, vision, and dental. One low monthly premium will cover you and your dependents. Earn vacation and sick time from day one and employer paid retirement! Other benefits available.

The overarching purpose of COIC's transportation program is to strengthen regional transportation services and infrastructure through the development and implementation of regionally-based transportation plans, administration and operations, service coordination, and project development. A regional approach to transportation enhances efficiencies among transportation organizations and ensures regional connectivity for Central Oregon's residents, businesses, and visitors.

The Outreach & Engagement Administrator position develops and implements strategic outreach, engagement, and communication initiatives for Cascades East Transit (CET). This position is critical to building community support, enhancing CET's public presence, and fostering partnerships across the region. The position reports to the Transportation Director. Primary duties include coordinating outreach-related projects, administering grants and contracts, overseeing technical documentation, and developing and maintaining positive relationships with media, community groups, and stakeholders.

Essential Functions : A person employed in this position must possess the capability to perform the following duties to be considered for this position. The duties are essential functions requiring the critical skills and expertise needed to meet job objectives. In coordination with, and under general guidance of the Transportation Director, this position performs the following :

Strategy & Project Oversight

Identify, scope, and coordinate out-reach related projects and partnership initiatives.

Develop and maintain plans for Strategic Outreach and Engagement and Communications to build public and stakeholder awareness and support for the transit system.

Develop and monitor measurable data and processes; make recommendations to management based on data (e.g. ridership trends, digital engagement, etc.)

Community Relations & Stakeholder Engagement

Exercise learned discretion and independent judgment in developing and maintaining positive and successful relationships and partnerships with staff, contractors, elected and appointed officials, public agencies, businesses, civic organizations, transit advocacy groups, and the public.

Represent CET at public meetings and events, often outside of normal business hours.

Coordinate special projects and events, such as visits from elected officials.

Serve as primary liaison to neighborhood associations and civic groups and support public involvement efforts such as travel training and community forums, in coordination with other CET staff.

Serve as a resource to supervisors and management to build and preserve a positive public image for the organization through strategic communications and public relations campaigns.

Respond to community and media inquiries, in coordination with management.

Provide thoughtful analysis of stakeholder viewpoints to inform transit planning and strategy.

Travel to various building locations and work sites in the field on a frequent basis to conduct events and attend meetings.

Technical, Administrative, & General Duties

Identify and apply for new funding, write and submit grant applications, monitor and oversee grant compliance, contract compliance, and reporting, as directed.

Participate and represent CET and COIC at various transit related meetings and committees (may include ODOT committee, Statewide Transportation Investment Fund (STIF) committee, and others, as directed).

Develop and maintain technical documentation; analyze and report on CET ridership, funding, outreach outcomes, and other data.

Coordinate CET's media relations, social media strategy, and public messaging, ensuring consistency across platforms and alignment with COIC branding. Oversee and update website content and support marketing and branding initiatives.

Prepare and distribute a variety of communication materials, including press releases, newsletters, and promotional content.

Develop and maintain effective and harmonious and reasonable work relationships with others.

Maintain regular and predictable work attendance in accordance with COIC policies.

At least six (6) years of work experience with state or local government or transit organizations as a public information officer, public relations specialist, communications manager, or comparable public relations related job in a comparable industry; OR a Bachelor's Degree in a related field (such as Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or Public Relations) PLUS at least two (2) years of work experience performing public relation functions for a local government or transit organization, or comparable work.

General & Technical Knowledge : Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, demonstrate initiative, manage time effectively, adapt to changing priorities, and perform well under pressure. Proven ability to plan and oversee technical programs, projects, and assignments. Knowledge of public information and engagement practices, media and citizen interaction, and group facilitation. Knowledge of local government structures, functions, funding, and public administration processes. Knowledge of records management practices, document retention, and relevant laws. Knowledge of developing project scopes and budgets related to grant-funded initiatives. Ability to read and interpret complex documents such as transit planning reports, procurement laws and procedures, and contract and grant requirements and rules. Knowledge of or ability to interpret and apply Federal, State, and local program requirements based on statutes, regulations, and codes impacting public engagement and transportation programs.

Superb communication skills : Strong attention to detail and ability to write comprehensive technical reports and professional correspondence. Ability to speak effectively with media, officials, business, and the public. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. Organize and facilitate effective meetings; prepare and give presentations.

Teamwork / leadership : Possess a strong commitment to team dynamics and resolving group conflict, strong communication and interpersonal skills. Work independently and diplomatically, as well as ability to work as part of a team, work successfully with diverse groups and varied individuals. Demonstrated professionalism and tact when working with confidential or sensitive matters. Maintain and promote positive and professional standards in representing the organization in the community and amongst employees.

Technology : Above average proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook. Working knowledge and experience with social media platforms, website software, various database software, and digital communication tools.

Other qualifications : Must be able to pass and maintain and clean a criminal background. Valid driver's license and access to private vehicle or equivalent means of transportation. Must maintain client and agency confidentiality. Ability to travel to and attend on-site events and meetings.

Physical Requirements & Work Conditions : Job conditions are sometimes uncomfortable due to varying work environments; inside / outside work with inclement weather; or interaction with angry / hostile or unpredictable individuals. The employee is occasionally required to work evening, weekend, or holidays. Ability to work in a typical office setting using standard office equipment and will be required to drive a motor vehicle to travel to various work sites and perform on-site work on a frequent basis. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to clearly communicate in person and over the telephone. Vision abilities include close vision to read printed materials and a computer screen. The employee is required to use hands and fingers, handle, feel or operate objects, type, and operate computers. The employee may occasionally be required to reach with hands and arms, climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch to perform tasks such as setting up meeting equipment. The employee is frequently required to walk, sit and talk or hear. The employee may occasionally lift and / or move up to 20 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made for some of these physical demands for otherwise qualified individuals who require and request such accommodation.