Communications Writing Specialist, Illinois Tollway - Chicago (West Suburbs)

DEPARTMENT POSITION SALARY
Communications Writing Specialist $19.92/Hr. –$38.78/Hr.
(G-8)
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
To be selected for a position, an applicant must (1) meet the minimum requirements of the job posting, (2) pass a written exam (if applicable), (3) satisfy a background check (which may be extensive), (4) pass an oral interview, during which the interviewer(s) will further evaluate the applicant’s qualifications and (5) provide certified transcripts, certifications, and/or license upon candidate processing and/or transfer, if the position requires a degree, certification, and/or license.

Internal Applicants who are current employees must have worked in their current position long enough to pass probation to be eligible to apply for the position. In addition, applicants are also subjected to an internal investigation which includes an evaluation of their work record, safety and discipline records, their performance assessments and time and attendance records (including late starts and early quits) for the preceding 12 months. (Authorized absences will not be included for purposes of assessing whether attendance is satisfactory.)

EDUCATION:
A Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, marketing or English, including courses in
writing are required.

EXPERIENCE:
A minimum of Three (3) years experience in journalism, marketing communications or public
relations is required.

THE FOLLOWING SKILLS AND ABILITIES ARE REQUIRED/DESIRED:
Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required, as well as strong grammar and
punctuation.
Must have ability to manage and complete tasks while paying close attention to details and
following tight deadlines, as well as work in a fast-paced environment.
Fluent written and spoken Spanish preferred but not required.
Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and Power Point.
Must have the ability to pass a writing test in order to qualify for an interview.
Ways to apply
Online: Complete the Illinois Tollway application, save it to the computer and email it to jobs@getipass.com
In person: Submit the completed application or pick up and complete the
application at Illinois Tollway Headquarters located at 2700 Ogden Avenue in
Downers Grove between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
By mail: Send the completed application to:
Illinois Tollway – Human Resources
2700 Ogden Avenue
Downers Grove, IL 60515

All applications must be received by the application deadline indicated on the qualification sheet or Internet site

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Illinois Human Rights Act, the Illinois Tollway actively takes steps to ensure that our employment selection process is accessible to persons with disabilities. Any person, who needs an accommodation, including an accommodation to the Illinois Rutan interview process, is encouraged to contact the Tollway’s ADA Coordinator, Lisa G. Williams, at (630) 241-6800 extension 1010, TTY (630) 241-6898, or at lwilliams@getipass.com.

Writing Specialist
Position Description
POSITION PURPOSE:
This person will be responsible for writing and editing Communications materials related to the
Tollway and its primary product -- I-PASS electronic toll collection. With the emphasis on
customer service, especially during construction season, there is a need for written
communications targeted to customers. The Writing Specialist also will assist in handling and/or
researching topics of media inquiries and may write press releases or statements. This person
will write or contribute to speeches, annual report copy, internal and external newsletters, Web
site copy, Power Point presentations, brochures and promotional materials, as well as draft
responses to customer correspondence as needed. In addition, this person will identify and
pursue potential opportunities for the Tollway to receive local, regional and national recognition
through various industry and trade organizations and their respective awards programs. The
Writing Specialist also will be involved in event and press conference planning.
NATURE AND SCOPE:
This position reports to the Press Secretary, with additional supervision by the Chief of
Communications and has no subordinates. The incumbent will work with Communications
Department staff, particularly the Press Secretary and Chief of Communications, Senior Manager
of Marketing and the Community Relations Coordinator to develop communications materials in
a variety of forms and for a variety of audiences. The incumbent may work with the Tollway’s
print shop, IT department and other departments as needed on special projects, as well as with
outside contractors such as designers and printers who may help design and produce written
materials.
REQUIREMENTS:
A Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, marketing or English, including courses in
writing are required. A minimum of Three (3) years experience in journalism, marketing
communications or public relations is required. Excellent verbal and written communication
skills are required, as well as strong grammar and punctuation. Must have ability to manage and
complete tasks while paying close attention to details and following tight deadlines, as well as
work in a fast-paced environment. Fluent written and spoken Spanish preferred but not required.
Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and Power Point. Must have the ability to
pass a writing test in order to qualify for an interview.riting Specialist Position Description

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PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES:
1. Write communications materials consistent with the Tollway’s mission and messages that
also project a credible, positive and professional public image.
2. Draft press releases that support the Tollway’s agenda and goals.
3. Draft correspondence, Power Point presentations, speech writing work and other
department writing assignments as necessary.
4. Identify and pursue potential opportunities for the Tollway to receive local, regional and
national recognition through various industry and trade organizations and their respective
awards programs.
5. Create customer communications materials that customers will view as a helpful
convenience and not junk mail or spam.
6. Continually offer suggestions and ideas on how to improve internal and external
communications for all Tollway stakeholders and customers.
7. Performs other duties as assigned.