Transit Public Outreach Lead — Equity-Focused Engagement

Hampton Roads Transit; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Hampton Roads Transit seeks a Public Outreach Coordinator to design and lead inclusive outreach strategies across the region. You will act as a liaison between HRT, community stakeholders, and partner organizations to inform, engage, and build trust across all transit services including bus, ferry, and light rail.

The role emphasizes translating community input into actionable insights for agency decisions, improving service delivery, and strengthening public trust.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, urban or transportation planning, public administration, community development, or related field.
• Demonstrated background in public engagement, community outreach, communications, or planning with diverse populations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Support development and refinement of public involvement in compliance with regulations (Title VI, ADA, language access).
• Lead planning and execution of outreach strategies educating communities about HRT services and projects.
• Develop outreach plans and create audience-tailored content; track public comments and respond to inquiries.
• Serve as department lead for outreach related to service changes; coordinate follow-up for accurate communication.
• Plan and facilitate community meetings, forums, events, and engagements; manage logistics and vendor support.
• Provide leadership to outreach staff and contractors; collaborate across departments on initiatives.
• Represent HRT to community, build relationships with leaders and partners at multiple levels.
• Design inclusive outreach approaches addressing diverse populations and equity-focused initiatives.

Skills

Public outreach

Public speaking

Written communication

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications or related field

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Hampton Roads Transit seeks a Public Outreach Coordinator to design and lead inclusive outreach strategies across the region. You will act as a liaison between HRT, community stakeholders, and partner organizations to inform, engage, and build trust across all transit services including bus, ferry, and light rail.

The role emphasizes translating community input into actionable insights for agency decisions, improving service delivery, and strengthening public trust.