We are seeking to hire candidates for our Press Officer (9055).
Opening Date: 09/17/2026
Closing Date: 09/24/2026
Job Grade: SAM 38
Salary Range: $73,164.00-$91,442.00
OVERALL DESCRIPTION
Responsible for responding to media inquiries, proactively engaging the media about SEPTA service, initiatives and other programs, and publicly highlighting SEPTA's important role in the Philadelphia region.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
- Responds to requests from journalists about all aspects of SEPTA operations and management. Involves maintaining professional relations with all levels of SEPTA management.
- Maintains assigned "beat" responsibilities, gaining expertise on certain specific technical, procedural or policy areas of SEPTA.
- Researches, writes and distributes press releases and statements to all variety of media.
- Supports media interviews and other requests, including preparing talking points along with scheduling and logistics
- Writes feature articles about SEPTA employees, accomplishments and other topics for transit industry publications.
- Monitors breaking SEPTA and related news from all outlets; compile daily news reports.
- Creates and curates content for Media Relations channels on social media
- Performs as a "duty" press officer, periodically assigned to be on-call to the media 24/7.
- Responds to emergencies, as required 24/7- 365.
- Be available to work any shift between 6a.m. and 7p.m.
- Performs other duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's Degree required and a minimum of three (3) years experience in major market journalism and/or public relations required.
- Excellent professional writing skills.
- Professional computer skills, web content management experience preferred.
- Excellent interpersonal and speaking skills, ability to communicate professionally and comfortably with varied audiences, especially the media required.
- Willingness to be permanently assigned to early morning shift, beginning at 6 a.m., or late shift ending at 7 p.m.
- Willingness to respond to emergencies 24/7 - 365 required.
• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage - Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
• Retirement Security - Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.
• Work-Life Balance - Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.
• Employee Wellness - Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
• Invest in Your Growth - We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.
• Student Loan Assistance - Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.
• Free Travel Perks - Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!