Public Relations Specialist (Dept. Of Transportation & Highways) - Shakman Exempt

Overview

Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways is seeking an experienced Public Relations Specialist, responsible for managing internal and external communications for the department, ensuring accurate and timely information is shared with the public, County bureaus and departments, and the media. It collaborates with communications staff to develop press releases, talking points, media pitches, remarks, and other materials, and helps plan press conferences and public messaging.

The position also assists in drafting newsletters, resolutions, proclamations, and other communications as needed. It works closely with other County bureaus and the Office of the President to align messaging across government operations and may serve as a communications representative or spokesperson on behalf of the department when required.

Attention Applicants:
Please note that as part of ongoing job architecture initiatives, the County is reviewing job titles and corresponding grades, which may be subject to change.

WHY PURSUE A CAREER WITH COOK COUNTY?

• Top Tier Medical Benefits:
  Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans
• Flexible Teleworking Options
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and Paid sick leave)
• Pension Plan
• Financial Support Programs and Resources:
  Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts – Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend
• Health/Wellness Perks:
  Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

• Serves 5.28 million residents of Chicago and its inner suburbs
  • 2nd largest county in America
  • Larger than 27 states
• Cook County employs over 22,000 employees who work in a variety of skilled jobs and trades.
  • Nearly 80% unionized workforce
  • 15 unions represented
  • 63 separate collective bargaining agreements
• Highway – Cook County maintains almost 600 miles of roads and highways.
• Land – Cook County assesses the value of more than 1.5 million parcels of taxable land and collects and distributes tax funds as a service for local government taxing bodies.
• Safety – Cook County provides vital services to local government, from conducting elections in suburban areas to offering 911 services in unincorporated areas and municipalities.

Located in the Loop District of downtown Chicago, one of the most formidable business districts in the world, the area has an astounding number of cultural foundations, stunning parks such as Millennial Park and Maggie Daley Park, steps away from the Chicago Riverwalk, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of shopping! In addition, Chicago is serviced by multiple bus and train lines for public transportation from the suburbs to the city, taxis are plentiful, public parking garages for motorists, and bicycle share rentals and local bike lanes for bicyclists.

Responsible for overseeing internal and external communications, including information to the public, other County Bureaus/Departments, and the press or media-related information on Bureau/Department matters. Collaborate with teammates to manage communication efforts, ensuring accurate and supportive press coverage of Bureau/Department activities. Work with the communications team to draft press releases, remarks, envision and develop press conferences, talking points, media pitches, approve quotes or statements on behalf of the Bureau/Department and other duties as assigned.

Assist in drafting various communications including newsletters, resolutions,…