Public Engagement and Communications Specialist I
The Public Engagement and Communications Specialist I at Confidential Client supports public-facing communications and engagement activities for transportation and infrastructure projects across Northern New England. This entry-level role involves developing outreach materials, coordinating public meetings, and assisting with digital and visual communications to connect project teams with communities. The position offers hands-on experience and professional growth opportunities within a collaborative, fast-paced environment focused on impactful public engagement.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, PR, Advertising & Marketing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role overview
Confidential Client seeks an entry-level Public Engagement and Communications Specialist I to support public-facing communications, outreach, and graphic design for transportation and infrastructure projects in Northern New England. This full-time position is based in Portland, ME, and requires occasional travel within Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire.
What You’ll Do
- Assist in developing and implementing communication and outreach strategies for infrastructure projects.
- Conduct routine research and collect data to support communications and regulatory outreach needs.
- Prepare and distribute outreach materials to stakeholders and media across print, digital, and visual channels.
- Track and maintain records related to public involvement, hearings, and outreach events.
- Draft presentations, speeches, correspondence, and perform initial fact-checking for reports and publications.
- Help coordinate community meetings and public forums, including logistics and collateral.
- Support digital communications including websites, social media, and email campaigns.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What You’ll Need
- Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Marketing, Communications, English, Journalism, or a related field; OR
- 4 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
What You’ll Bring
- Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent organization, time-management, and attention to detail.
- Creative problem-solving and an eye for visual communication.
- Interest in digital communications and public engagement tools.
- Ability to prepare clear, visually engaging presentations and public materials.
- Collaborative mindset and initiative to learn new tools and approaches.
- Interest in transportation, infrastructure, planning, or public-sector communications.
What We Prefer
- Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop).
- Experience creating presentations, fact sheets, graphics, or digital content.
- Coursework or experience in public engagement, communications, marketing, or planning.
- Familiarity with ArcGIS StoryMaps, CMS, social media, or email marketing tools.
- Experience translating technical information for public audiences.
Additional Information
- Employment type: Full-time
- Location: Portland, ME (primary). Occasional travel across ME, VT, and NH.
- Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
- Approximate pay range for Maine: $59,361.65 - $89,042.48 per year (estimate; actual pay depends on qualifications and location).
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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