Job Description
Public Information Coordinator
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is seeking a dynamic, customer-focused communicator to join our team. In this role, you will serve as a primary point of contact for the public, stakeholders, and media partners, helping to keep Utah moving and informed.
About the Role
In this role, you will manage day-to-day inquiries regarding UDOT programs, construction projects, roadway conditions, policies, and services. This role bridges the gap between the department and the community, ensuring timely, accurate, and empathetic communication.
Additionally, you will directly support UDOT’s Public Information Officers (PIOs) by assisting with media relations, drafting communication materials, and serving as a backup spokesperson for interviews or public engagement events.
Position Information
Here is some important information about this position:
- Salary Range: $27.42 - $45.91
- FT/PT Status: Full time
- Schedule Code: B - Competitive Career Service (12 month probation)
- Location: Calvin Rampton Building, 4501 South 2700 West, Taylorsville, Utah
- Application Deadline: 06/17/2026
Work Schedule & Conditions
You must be willing to work under the following conditions:
- Remote Work Eligibility: This is a full-time in-office position.
- Availability: Must be willing to work outside standard business hours during emergencies, major traffic incidents, or critical public communication events.
- Travel: Occasional statewide travel may be required.
Key Responsibilities
As a Public Information Coordinator, your daily duties will include:
- Public Engagement: Respond efficiently to public inquiries across multiple channels, including phone, email, and social media.
- Information Distribution: Provide clear, accurate, and timely updates on UDOT projects, traffic impacts, construction, and road conditions.
- Issue Tracking: Document and route community concerns to the appropriate internal divisions or regional offices for resolution.
- Media & PIO Support: Assist PIOs with media coordination, press inquiries, and interview scheduling; serve as a backup spokesperson for media interviews and public meetings when needed.
- Content Creation: Help draft and distribute press releases, public notices, talking points, and engaging social media content.
- Trend Monitoring: Monitor public sentiment and emerging concerns to help identify communication trends that require proactive outreach.
- Crisis Communication: Support emergency communication and incident response efforts as required.
Qualifications
To be considered for this position, candidates must possess:
- Education/Experience: A Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
- Substitution: Professional experience in a directly related field may substitute for the degree on a year-for-year basis (e.g., 4 years of relevant experience).
- Core Experience: Demonstrated experience in customer service, public relations, communications, digital media, or journalism.
Preferred Qualifications
Our ideal candidate is someone who possesses:
- Experience handling direct media inquiries or acting as an organizational spokesperson.
- Familiarity with translation/localization and digital accessibility standards (WCAG).
- Fluency in Spanish (spoken and written).
- Prior knowledge of transportation, government operations, or public sector communications.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
In order to be successful, the following are essential:
- Exceptional Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a sharp eye for detail and accuracy.
- Crisis Calm: Ability to remain composed, professional, and empathetic when handling sensitive, high-pressure, or confrontational situations.
- Adaptability: Strong organizational skills to manage shifting priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Interpersonal Excellence: Proven ability to build positive relationships and communicate clearly with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
- Public Service Mindset: A proactive, problem-solving attitude dedicated to serving the residents of Utah.
- Professional Presentation: Polished personal presentation and grooming suitable for public-facing and media-facing environments.
Why You Should Join Our Team
A Mission That Matters – At UDOT, our mission is to “Enhance quality of life through transportation." We help the traveling public get where they want, when they want, as safely as possible. By joining our team, you contribute to the framework of Good Health, Connected Communities, Better Mobility, and a Strong Economy for all of Utah.
Our Culture and Values – We aren't just a state agency; we are a team built on an internal culture of Trust, Teamwork, and Flexibility. We live by the values of Respect, Integrity, and Caring. If these values resonate with you, you will find a home here!
The Agency
For more information on the Utah Department of Transportation, click here
Benefits at a Glance
- Exceptional Health Coverage: We offer some of the most competitive medical premiums in the industry, including comprehensive family plans with very low out-of-pocket costs and HSA options.
- Retirement Choice: Flexibility between a 10% employer-paid 401(k) (no match required) or a Pension/401(k) Hybrid plan.
- Generous Paid Time Off: 12 paid holidays per year plus 8 hours of combined leave (4 annual and 4 sick) accrued each pay period.
- Dental & Vision: Multiple high-quality plan options to fit your needs.
EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
Recruiter: Jill Barela, jbarela@utah.gov
