(NEW YORK) WPIX—
Faced with budget cuts, layoffs and fire hikes, MTA Headquarters is advertising for a Senior Writer to assist in media relations. A main component of the job, according to the summary on www.mta.info, would be working "with the MTA Chairman on a regular basis to prepare speeches, remarks and talking points for the Chairman for presentation at public appearances." Also, the writer would help prepare remarks for MTA Chairman Jay Walder to present at Board meetings and other events.PIX 11 News reporter Greg Mocker found the job posting during his regular review of the MTA website.
The job offers a minimum salary of $75,322. It does not advertise a maximum amount but says a mid-range would be $94,152. The hours of work are described as 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (7.5 hours per day) and "the position may be required to work non-traditional hours and attend various functions often at off-site locations."
Here's the job summary: Responsible for the research and preparation of a variety of written communication materials, including but not limited to policy reports, publications that define MTA policies, major projects and critical programs, web site content, speeches, remarks and talking points. Also assists the Director, Media Relations in coordinating media relations for the MTA to ensure that information is communicated to the public via the media in a way that is consistent, timely and accurate, including but not limited to planning media events, answering media inquiries and writing press materials. Interfaces with senior policymakers at the MTA and its agencies to research and draft written materials needed to communicate information about the MTA¿s initiatives, policies and budgets to customers, elected officials, media and the general public. Interfaces on a regular basis with the Director, Media Relations, and senior staff to assist in the formulation of media communication on issues affecting the MTA and its operating agencies. Interfaces with senior staff at MTA Headquarters and operating agencies to gather information for MTA Chairman's and Agency President's presentations.
The position would assist the Director of MTA Media Relations "with media relations tasks, including but not limited to answering media calls, editing and drafting press materials and organizing media events and press conferences."
