State of Colorado
Safety Communications Manager – CDOT
Department:
Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
Location:
Denver, CO
Salary:
$82,000.00 – $92,000.00
Position Overview The Safety Communications Manager will develop and implement communication strategies for federal and state highway safety programs, serve as the chief spokesperson for traffic safety issues, and produce a range of communication tools including newsletters, event coordination, scripts, speaking points, and news releases. The role coordinates consultant teams and provides strategic oversight for campaigns that support the State Highway Safety Plan: Advancing Transportation Safety.
Key Responsibilities
Creates and implements the safety communications strategy, including media plans and projects in support of Colorado’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan.
Prepares and monitors an annual budget of up to $3 million.
Manages consultants, negotiates contracts, and oversees project implementation.
Generates media coverage and public awareness through news releases, websites, videos, campaigns, and events; serves as a spokesperson.
Attends press conferences and other safety program events.
Builds positive relationships with partner agencies and serves on task forces.
Collaborates with external partners to align CDOT safety campaigns with broader efforts.
Tracks research, studies, and trends in highway safety at the state and national levels.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Work Environment
Standard hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday–Friday; flexible schedule available.
Remote work available 1–2 days per week after training.
Travel within Metro Denver/Front Range during work hours.
Occasional overnight travel 1–3 times per year throughout Colorado.
Required vehicle operation (CDOT vehicles).
Minimum Qualifications Experience Only
Four (4) years of professional experience in a field closely related to the major duties.
At least three (3) years of experience in public relations and/or public affairs, including communications planning and paid media.
Education and Experience
A combination of relevant education and experience equal to at least 7 years.
Relevant coursework in social sciences, communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or related fields.
At least three (3) years of professional PR/public affairs experience with communications planning and paid media.
Note:
Experience must be substantiated in the application. “See Resume” statements will not be accepted.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated success in duties listed in the job description.
State service experience related to the role.
Highest work/personal ethics and integrity.
Depth of experience in strategic external communications, transportation safety, program/project communications, and internal communications.
Experience speaking on the record with media and working with paid media companies.
Comprehensive knowledge of public relations principles and best practices.
Strategic campaign planning experience.
Consultant oversight experience.
Strong facilitation, presentation, and written/oral communication skills.
Creative and innovative communication planning skills.
Ability to work under tight deadlines and adapt to changing assignments.
Problem‑solving and initiative.
Stakeholder partnership skills.
Leadership, interpersonal, relationship‑building, time and project management.
Analytical reasoning and technical attention to detail.
Commitment to safety.
Proficiency in social media, Microsoft Office, Gmail, Google Apps, SAP, and rapid learning of new systems.
Application Process
Submit a complete CDOT application through the online portal.
Complete the supplemental questionnaire.
Upload optional cover letter, resume, transcripts, DD‑214 if veteran, and any requested documentation.
Review the eligibility list and application checklist before submission.
Applications are accepted through the closing date; materials received after the close date are not considered.
EEO Statement The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, education, disability, socio‑economic status, or any other identity.
Accommodation Contact For disability accommodations, contact Amanda Parkhurst‑Strout at Amanda.Parkhurst-Strout@state.co.us or call 303‑757‑9685.
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Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
Location:
Denver, CO
Salary:
$82,000.00 – $92,000.00
Position Overview The Safety Communications Manager will develop and implement communication strategies for federal and state highway safety programs, serve as the chief spokesperson for traffic safety issues, and produce a range of communication tools including newsletters, event coordination, scripts, speaking points, and news releases. The role coordinates consultant teams and provides strategic oversight for campaigns that support the State Highway Safety Plan: Advancing Transportation Safety.
Key Responsibilities
Creates and implements the safety communications strategy, including media plans and projects in support of Colorado’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan.
Prepares and monitors an annual budget of up to $3 million.
Manages consultants, negotiates contracts, and oversees project implementation.
Generates media coverage and public awareness through news releases, websites, videos, campaigns, and events; serves as a spokesperson.
Attends press conferences and other safety program events.
Builds positive relationships with partner agencies and serves on task forces.
Collaborates with external partners to align CDOT safety campaigns with broader efforts.
Tracks research, studies, and trends in highway safety at the state and national levels.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Work Environment
Standard hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday–Friday; flexible schedule available.
Remote work available 1–2 days per week after training.
Travel within Metro Denver/Front Range during work hours.
Occasional overnight travel 1–3 times per year throughout Colorado.
Required vehicle operation (CDOT vehicles).
Minimum Qualifications Experience Only
Four (4) years of professional experience in a field closely related to the major duties.
At least three (3) years of experience in public relations and/or public affairs, including communications planning and paid media.
Education and Experience
A combination of relevant education and experience equal to at least 7 years.
Relevant coursework in social sciences, communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or related fields.
At least three (3) years of professional PR/public affairs experience with communications planning and paid media.
Note:
Experience must be substantiated in the application. “See Resume” statements will not be accepted.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated success in duties listed in the job description.
State service experience related to the role.
Highest work/personal ethics and integrity.
Depth of experience in strategic external communications, transportation safety, program/project communications, and internal communications.
Experience speaking on the record with media and working with paid media companies.
Comprehensive knowledge of public relations principles and best practices.
Strategic campaign planning experience.
Consultant oversight experience.
Strong facilitation, presentation, and written/oral communication skills.
Creative and innovative communication planning skills.
Ability to work under tight deadlines and adapt to changing assignments.
Problem‑solving and initiative.
Stakeholder partnership skills.
Leadership, interpersonal, relationship‑building, time and project management.
Analytical reasoning and technical attention to detail.
Commitment to safety.
Proficiency in social media, Microsoft Office, Gmail, Google Apps, SAP, and rapid learning of new systems.
Application Process
Submit a complete CDOT application through the online portal.
Complete the supplemental questionnaire.
Upload optional cover letter, resume, transcripts, DD‑214 if veteran, and any requested documentation.
Review the eligibility list and application checklist before submission.
Applications are accepted through the closing date; materials received after the close date are not considered.
EEO Statement The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, education, disability, socio‑economic status, or any other identity.
Accommodation Contact For disability accommodations, contact Amanda Parkhurst‑Strout at Amanda.Parkhurst-Strout@state.co.us or call 303‑757‑9685.
#J-18808-Ljbffr