This position functions as a Public Relations Manager /Stakeholder Engagement Specialist and subject matter expert for projects being developed and delivered by AECOM. AECOM performs engineering services to develop and deliver various projects for MDOT and other clients (local agencies, transit agencies, universities, etc.), including some of the most complex transportation projects throughout the State. MDOT and other clients are relying on consultants more often to assist or lead stakeholder engagement activities. This position will support this need. This position will work closely with our clients to manage and lead stakeholder outreach for our projects. The person in this position operates independently with limited guidance and is expected to have working knowledge engagement and communication protocols and best practices.
Job Summary
Develop and Implement Stakeholder Engagement Plans for projects delivered by AECOM.
- Lead the facilitation of Public Meetings, Public Hearings, and Outreach Events.
- Manage communication channels and coordinate with project teams and clients.
- Address and resolve stakeholder concerns.
- Identify key stakeholders (public agencies, local communities, advocacy groups, businesses).
- Create engagement strategies tailored to project phases (planning, design, construction).
- Develop communication materials such as fact sheets, FAQs, and project updates.
- Establish feedback mechanisms (surveys, comment forms, virtual platforms).
- Organize and lead public meetings, public hearings, open houses, and workshops.
- Coordinate logistics (venue, virtual platforms, accessibility accommodations).
- Lead the preparation efforts for presentations and visual aids to explain project impacts and benefits.
- Document stakeholder input and help incorporate feedback into project decisions.
- Maintain a stakeholder comment log and track responses.
- Track commitments and mitigation measures related to stakeholder concerns.
- Maintain project websites and social media accounts for timely updates.
- Draft press releases and newsletters to inform stakeholders.
- Respond to inquiries from the public and media promptly and professionally.
- Monitor engagement metrics to evaluate outreach effectiveness.
- Serve as liaison between engineering/design teams and stakeholders.
- Coordinate with environmental staff to maintain compliance with agency requirements for public involvement (e.g., NEPA, Section 106).
- Develop issue resolution protocols for complaints or conflicts.
- Escalate unresolved issues to project leadership with recommended solutions.