Government Affairs & Communications Manager

Lansing, Michigan, This is an opportunity to play a highly visible role in shaping the future of public transportation in Michigan. The successful candidate will work directly with transit leaders and policymakers across the state and will have significant responsibility for developing and executing MPTA's advocacy and communications efforts. About MPTA The Michigan Public Transit Association (MPTA) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public transportation and mobility throughout Michigan. Since 1977, MPTA has represented public transit agencies, other transportation providers, and industry partners serving communities across the state. Through advocacy, training, collaboration, information sharing, and technical support, MPTA works to strengthen transportation services and improve mobility for Michigan residents. The Opportunity The Government Affairs & Communications Manager strengthens the voice and visibility of public transit throughout Michigan. The position builds relationships with policymakers and partners, coordinates statewide advocacy, monitors legislative and policy developments, and helps transit agencies engage effectively with elected officials.The Manager also leads communications that keep members informed and help tell the story of Michigan transit. The position works closely with the Executive Director, contracted legislative consultants, transit agencies, and partner organizations. Reports to: Executive Director Essential Duties Government Affairs & Advocacy

Maintain an active presence in Lansing and build relationships with legislators, legislative staff, state agencies, local officials, and other key partners. Monitor legislation, budgets, regulatory activity, and emerging policy issues affecting public transportation, working with the Executive Director and legislative consultants to develop an annual legislative agenda and advance statewide priorities. Attend legislative hearings, meetings, forums, and other events where public transit should be represented. Serve as a resource for policymakers and transit agencies by providing timely information, local examples, data, talking points, legislative updates, testimony, and other advocacy materials.

Statewide Engagement

Expand Michigan transit’s statewide presence by organizing legislative visits, transit tours, Legislative Day activities, chamber events, candidate forums, and other opportunities for transit leaders to engage with policymakers. Handle scheduling, preparation, coordination, and follow-up to make it easier for transit agencies to participate in advocacy. Build partnerships with local governments, chambers, schools, workforce organizations, health and human-service organizations, businesses, and other groups that can strengthen support for public transit. Engage local transit board members as additional allies in advocacy. Support government affairs committees, coalitions, PAC activities, and other statewide advocacy efforts.

Communications

Assist in development of member and public communications, including newsletters, legislative updates, website and social media content, press releases, public statements, and advocacy campaigns. Work with transit agencies to identify and share local success stories, rider impacts, funding needs, and other examples that demonstrate the value of public transportation across Michigan. Help maintain clear and consistent messaging with members, policymakers, partners, the media, and the public.

Other Duties

Represent the Association at meetings, conferences, community events, and other activities as needed. Conduct research and develop resources supporting advocacy, communications, and member engagement. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment

Lansing-area position with a regular presence at the State Capitol, legislative offices, state agencies, and other government affairs activities. Flexible/hybrid environment with regular statewide travel for legislative visits, transit tours, member meetings, community events, and conferences. Occasional early morning, evening, overnight, and multi-day events. Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, communications, public relations, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience. Experience in government affairs, public policy, communications, government, association management, or a related field. Familiarity with Michigan state government and the legislative process. Strong writing, communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills. Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and operate effectively in a bipartisan environment. Experience with public transportation, local government, infrastructure, or another public-service field is a strong plus. •This is a full time, exempt position with a starting salary range of $75,000–$90,000, commensurate with experience. MPTA offers a competitive benefits package that includes employer paid health coverage, a 5% employer contribution to a SIMPLE IRA retirement plan, paid time off, and paid holidays.