Communications Co-op Spring 2022
About MassDOT:
An agency on the move, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) takes great pride in connecting the Commonwealth’s residents and communities. Powered by a growing data-analytics discipline – and working in conjunction with municipalities, public agencies and the private sector – we’re finding new ways to improve the Bay State’s transportation infrastructure.
MassDOT is responsible for developing, implementing, and coordinating transportation policies and projects for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and to efficiently plan, design, construct, and maintain a safe statewide transportation system which effectively meets the transportation needs of the Commonwealth.
MassDOT’s divisions include: Highway, Aeronautics, Registry of Motor Vehicles, Rail & Transit, and Planning & Enterprise Services. There are approximately 3,600 employees across the organization.
MassDOT’s goal is to provide employees with greater flexibility in when and where they work while continuing to execute MassDOT’s Safety and Customer Service Mission. Furthermore, MassDOT will be doing our part to lead by example in reducing congestion and greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing overall workplace commuting travel during peak hours through telework and schedule flexibility.
This position has a high degree of remote flexibility once established in the role. The selected candidate will be expected to follow a hybrid work model that consists of both in-office and work from home days, as needed.
Position Summary:
The MassDOT Communications Office oversees media relations for the four MassDOT divisions: Highway, Rail and Transit, Aeronautics, and the Registry of Motor Vehicles. The office is responsible for getting information to reporters, writing advisories and press releases, and providing information for MassDOT social media. The office also schedules public events and news conferences. Coordination with other state agencies, elected officials, non-profits, and municipalities is an essential part of the work done here. The goal of the Communications Team is to provide accurate and concise information in a timely manner.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Coordinate the flow of information between the media, division heads, and senior staff.
- Research ongoing issues and attend public meetings and events.
- Receive and respond to media inquiries in an accurate and timely manner.
- Confer with staff in order to exchange information, coordinate efforts, and obtain information concerning projects and activities.
- Write and edit advisories and press releases as necessary
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior internship experience is preferred, but not required.
- Computer proficiency, including the ability to develop and analyze spreadsheets, databases, and reports.
- Applicants must be highly organized to meet the priorities of this office for accuracy and meeting deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office is preferred.
Qualifications
This requisition will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Must be enrolled in a full time Bachelor's degree program for spring 2022.
All job applications must be submitted online through MassCareers to be considered.
· For questions regarding the job posting, email alaina.seitz@dot.state.ma.us.
· For general questions regarding MassDOT, call the Human Resources Service Center at 857-368-4722.
· For a disability‐related reasonable accommodation or alternative application method, call ADA Coordinator, Heather Ulesoo – (617) 851-9447.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Executive Order #595: As a condition of employment, successful applicants will be required to have received COVID-19 vaccination or an approved exemption as of their start date. Details relating to demonstrating compliance with this requirement will be provided to applicants selected for employment. Applicants who receive an offer of employment who can provide documentation that the vaccine is medically contraindicated or who object to vaccination due to a sincerely held religious belief may make a request for exemption