Vanpool Communications Specialist

Basic Function

Functions as a communications liaison between vanpool and the public via STAR website, social media, and other platforms to convey program information, educational materials, and promotional messages.  Leads in the development and implementation of social marketing initiatives and customer engagement campaigns on behalf of vanpool. Works closely with Vanpool Marketing Analyst on brand management, creatives, and other program initiatives to persuade potential program participants to include vanpool in their commute options. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Develops and implements vanpool’s social media presence in online publishing platforms to increase awareness and engage the public on various communication channels as part of a comprehensive communications program to increase awareness of the regional vanpool program.
• Works closely with vanpool sales, customer service, METRO Marketing, Vanpool Marketing Analyst, METRO Press Office, METRO Media Team, Houston-Galveston Area Council, and other City and county departments to coordinate on messaging and identify opportunities for cross-promotion.
• Research, design, and integrates social marketing/behavior change messaging into program materials, campaigns, communications, and media.
• Moderates and responds to comments and messages, reports on public communications on social media and other content platforms.
• Creates content to grow social media presence across social media channels, including managing, writing, scheduling posts, graphic design, flyers; and identifies important initiatives and events in the public transportation sector to incorporate into social media content calendar.
• Coordinates vanpool’s social media and communications with METRO’s media team including responding to media inquiries related to METRO Star Vanpool and coordinates interviews and information response.
• Writes and copy-edits press materials, such as newsletters, fact sheets, news releases, and other forms of publicity. 
• Provides operational contacts for other departments, customers, key staff, and stakeholders during customer service and emergency responses involving public communications.
• Connects with internal and external subject matter experts and stakeholders to leverage opportunities for promoting vanpool services around various events, holidays, and activities.
• Coordinates with program management on development of customer and marketplace communications to support program objectives.
• Ensures availability of tabletop displays, and monitors marketing materials for restocking purposes.
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Applies SMS (Safety Management System) methods and principles in daily routine and supports all aspects of the agency’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education Requirement

High school diploma or equivalent is required. Bachelor’s degree in Communications or a related degree is preferred.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum four (4) years’ experience in communications and related business writing. Experience with social media, advertising, or marketing is preferred.  Experience working in a transit/transportation environment is preferred.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Excellent communications (written/verbal) and interpersonal skills.  Excellent customer service, public relations and marketing skills. Demonstrated leadership skills. Strong computer skills; Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). Proficiency with social media platforms and online publishing tools such as X, Facebook and YouTube.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.