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- Tasks: Shape the national news agenda and promote key transport policies.
- Company: Department for Transport, a dynamic and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, 25 days leave, and flexible working.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in communications and engage with the media.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications and ability to work collaboratively.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 35663 - 39533 £ per year.
As a Press Officer at the Department for Transport (DfT) you could be helping shape the national news agenda every day. No two days are the same in the communications directorate. You might be communicating our reform of the railways; highlighting the department’s work to improve bus services; or promoting transport’s key role in economic growth.
The communications team works closely with Private Offices, Special Advisers, policy officials and external stakeholders.
Top Responsibilities- You will play an important role in responding to reactive media enquiries, working with policy officials and Ministerial teams to inform and educate the public, and correct inaccurate reporting.
- You will also work proactively on government announcements on a range of significant transport policies and campaigns.
- This will involve drawing up creative media handling, with a particular focus on new media and online outlets, maximising positive coverage.
- You will play an important role in a 24-hour communications team and will be part of a duty rota able to respond to enquiries out-of-hours. This includes working weekends and evenings and comes with a competitive remuneration package.
- You will staff ministerial events, preparing ministers for interviews and supporting journalists so they can accurately report our announcements.
- Our communications are based around campaigns and you will employ a range of skills and channels to deliver our messages. This includes working alongside strategic communication colleagues to set the direction for the department and creating social media content to tell our stories in the most effective way.
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary.
- 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave).
- 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the King’s birthday.
- Access to the staff discount portal.
- Excellent career development opportunities and the potential to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc.
- Joining a diverse and inclusive workforce with a range of staff communities to support all our colleagues.
- 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff.
- Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance.
To be successful in this role you will need to have the following experience:
- Experience of working within communications and/or media.
- Experience of developing proactive and reactive communications approaches.
- Experience of working collaboratively with others to deliver at pace and manage competing demands.
Read the full description and apply at CS jobs using the link provided. This vacancy closes at 23:55 on Sunday 15th February 2026.
Press Officer employer: Department for Transport
Contact Detail:
Department for Transport Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Press Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already working at the Department for Transport. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by staying updated on current transport issues and policies. Show your passion for the role by discussing how you can contribute to shaping the national news agenda.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your media handling skills! Think about how you'd respond to tricky questions or negative press. Being ready for anything will impress interviewers and show you're the right fit for the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Press Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in communications and media. We want to see how your skills align with the role of a Press Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant examples!
Showcase Your Creativity: As a Press Officer, creativity is key! Use your written application to demonstrate your ability to think outside the box. Whether it’s through your choice of words or the way you structure your application, let your personality shine through.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re the right fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application as strong as possible.
How to prepare for a job interview at Department for Transport
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest transport policies and current events related to the Department for Transport. Brush up on recent announcements and be ready to discuss how they impact the public. This shows your genuine interest and helps you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Press Officer, communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully handled media enquiries or crafted proactive communications in the past. Be ready to demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations, like how you would respond to a negative news story about the department. Think through your approach to managing media relations and correcting misinformation, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
The role involves working closely with various teams, so be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborative environments. Share specific instances where you’ve worked with policy officials or other stakeholders to achieve a common goal, showcasing your teamwork abilities.
