Public Communications & Media Relations Specialist

BART; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 119,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

BART is seeking a Communications Officer I to support its Media Relations team in a fast-paced public information environment. The role focuses on delivering clear, timely content for news releases, passenger bulletins, and social media, while coordinating with reporters and internal staff.

Responsibilities include responding to media inquiries, managing crisis communications, and ensuring accurate information dissemination during service changes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, or a closely related field is required.
• Minimum one year of full-time professional public information or newsroom experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and disseminate news releases, social posts, and passenger communications under tight deadlines.
• Respond to media inquiries with factual information and background materials.
• Support crisis communications with timely, accurate updates.
• Develop relationships with reporters and district staff to enhance press coverage.
• Monitor and post content across the District’s digital channels during service disruptions.

Skills

News writing

Media relations

Crisis communications

Social media management

Public speaking

Education

Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, or related field

Tools

CMS

Social media platforms

Media monitoring tools

Job description

BART is seeking a Communications Officer I to support its Media Relations team in a fast-paced public information environment. The role focuses on delivering clear, timely content for news releases, passenger bulletins, and social media, while coordinating with reporters and internal staff.

Responsibilities include responding to media inquiries, managing crisis communications, and ensuring accurate information dissemination during service changes.