Communications Associate

Communications Associate

Interested candidates must apply to the Communications Associate posting by visiting careers.paturnpike.com by December 17, 2025.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, opened on October 1, 1940, is known as “America’s First Superhighway”! Our mission is to operate a safe, reliable, customer-valued toll road system that supports national mobility and commerce. The PTC operates a 565-mile system with over 205 million transactions annually. Together, we are building the highway of the future.

The Commission values its team members and understands the importance of work/life balance to the health, well-being and productivity of its team. Therefore, this position may be eligible for Flexible Work Options* such as:

• Hybrid Work - combination of remote and in-person reporting
• Alternate Work Schedule - flexibility to adjust work schedule length to complete work week in fewer days

*Some options may require completion of probationary period.

The Commission requires all employees to establish PA residency within 6 months of hire and to maintain PA residency, regardless of Flexible Work Options.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. The Commission will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

Job Purpose and Summary

This position is responsible for performing entry-level work for public and stakeholder outreach for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC). Work involves the development and coordination of communications strategies and materials that promote the PTC’s work and keep both the public and staff informed about ongoing programs, initiatives, and activities. Work is performed with some independence and reviewed by a manager for attainment of program goals, completion of projects, and overall performance.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Performs activities and assists in the administration of public and stakeholder outreach. Ensures consistent messaging and brand identity across all communication channels.

Provides support for events internally and at service plazas, community events, trade shows, and other events to promote PTC initiatives.

Drafts and proofreads correspondence, reports, and other work products and ensures a unified brand voice across all platforms.

Researches and gathers information or commentary pertinent to the creation and execution of assigned projects.

Assists in the development of story/message or design ideas in support of the organization’s values and strategic/capital plan initiatives, providing support for ideas with research and experience.

Supports the communications team with creative concepts, messaging, campaigns, crisis communications, and related tasks.

Communicates with and supports vendor relationships and provides information to contracted vendors to use in developing communications products.

Assists in determining the format strategy for content distribution, including planning and executing campaigns that meet the business objectives of the organization.

Stays up to date on market trends and changes in communication methods, and recommends solutions to improve communication effectiveness and innovation. Assists with implementation of changes to current processes and procedures as necessary.

Serves as a customer service representative and responds to general customer or stakeholder inquiries regarding communications initiatives and other related requests. Escalates high-level questions or issues and concerns to the appropriate specialist or manager.

Performs varied administrative support, including but not limited to scheduling meetings, drafting agendas, taking minutes for meetings, ordering supplies/materials, answering phones, and maintaining files.

Represents the PTC at various public events including trade shows, meetings, and other events.

Uses situational awareness to anticipate and prevent accidents.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Four (4) years of experience in communications, public administration, or advertising; OR Bachelor’s degree in communications, public administration, advertising, or related field.
Equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be accepted.

Possession of a valid driver’s license. Must obtain and maintain a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license within six (6) months of employment.

Competencies

Attention to Detail

Communication Proficiency

Critical Thinking

Customer Service

Flexibility

Initiative Driven

Motivated

Research Skills

Results Driven

Teamwork Orientation

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Position demands include frequent speaking, writing, and reading reports. Position requires frequent work at a computer utilizing business programs and PTC specific operating systems. Position may require occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds. Position requires occasional travel and/or fieldwork with exposure to roadway traffic. Occasionally works outside of normal business hours for assigned work assignments.

Office environment with low levels of noise, adequate lighting, and comfortable temperature. Field environment may include exposure to moderately adverse and undesirable conditions. Physical environment is generally safe, but safety equipment or precautions must be followed in field conditions.

Benefits

The selected candidate will be offered an exceptional benefits package which includes comprehensive medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage, along with a benefit plan for retirement. In addition, leave programs, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, and alternative work schedules are available to employees.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department by calling 717-831-7378.