JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Nebraska Department of Transportation’s (NDOT) Communications & Public Policy Division is seeking a Highway Programs Specialist to join its Public Involvement Team. This person will join a high-performing team that engages and communicates with Nebraska’s communities and stakeholders about state transportation projects, following state and federal requirements. This includes community outreach, stakeholder engagement, public education, and feedback collection, analysis, and reporting.
As an NDOT employee, you will join a team of 2,000 dedicated professionals performing important work to provide Nebraska with a safe and efficient transportation system. NDOT is a friendly and supportive work environment that encourages creativity and innovation. We provide training and career development, advancement opportunities, ample paid time off, and work-life balance.

We reward our employees’ hard work with a friendly and supportive work environment and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
• 13 paid holidays
• Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
• Military leave
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• 79% employer-paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and Development based on your career aspirations
• Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
• Employee Assistance Program
• Fun, inviting teammates
• Free parking

Pay range is $28.768 - $42.408 per hour. The pay rate may be commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints if approved.

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications: Two-year post-high school degree or equivalent coursework/training in public administration, business administration, communications, regional or community planning, social sciences, education, or human rights, and one year of experience in project management, public policy, marketing, and/or planning. Additional years of experience in comparable fields of work listed may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in communication, public policy, pre-law, business, engineering, construction, or project management, or related degree.
• Experience working in public involvement, public affairs, prelaw, business, business communications, and/or specializing in government or administration assistance.
• Experience writing and reviewing technical public documents, and interpreting laws, rules, regulations, and processes.
• Experience reviewing and evaluating administrative records and reports, writing for legal documents, or proven commensurate training.
• Experience developing and delivering technical presentations.
• Training or experience in conflict mitigation.

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES

• Strong verbal and written communication, ability to explain complex processes and interpret state and federal regulations, and present information to individuals and groups.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Time management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Strong computer skills and ability to use PA systems, current technology, and information systems.
• Professional judgement that meets the agency’s standard of excellence when interacting with internal and external stakeholders.
• Team development.Desire to learn quickly, embrace responsibility, and accept accountability.

• Communicate with designers, engineers, local public agencies (LPAs), and consultants regarding completeness and accuracy of project information and documentation under review; explain required information and procedures for public involvement activities required on federal aid projects and/or by the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT); recommend actions to correct errors and deficiencies within the process of program and project delivery.
• Present technical information in a public forum
• Review, write, rewrite, and edit documents according to the Revised Code of Federal Regulations, Nebraska State Statutes, NDOT Rules and Regulations, NDOT’s Public Involvement Procedures, Title VI, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and any other Federal/State oversight agency with jurisdictional requirements applicable to NDOT highway improvement projects and environmental or civil rights implementation.
• Prepare official correspondence, public notices, project and process information, scheduling the public notices and news releases, meeting logistics, compiling and distributing solicited public comments, and drafting appropriate responses per NDOT Public Involvement Procedures.
• Investigate and document when project information is incomplete/inaccurate. Identify and assess risks to the project delivery process. This will include tracking project progression and documenting risks, as well as recommending options to mitigate risk with the intent to streamline processes and procedures to improve project/program delivery.
• Provide assistance to the Supervisor and NDOT management, as needed.
• Maintain communication between the Public Involvement Unit, other NDOT sections and divisions, consultants, and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) regarding proper procedures, regulations, policies, and process changes. Experience and proven knowledge of community organization practices.
• Coordinate special projects, such as department and Governor initiatives, as assigned.Perform other duties as assigned.