Public Information Officer

JOB SUMMARY: 

Plans, develops and coordinates public information resources at the direction of the Tax Commissioner. Develops public relations campaigns and implements them. Works in conjunction with the internal stakeholders and external vendors to oversee website information, social media posts and videos. Prepares the annual report magazine and oversees the planning of special events and Tax Commissioner functions. Coordinates and participates in media interviews. Prepares and edits written, verbal and visual communications; and provides information to the public and the media on behalf of the Tax Commissioner. Oversees Tax Commissioner brand identity standards. Works to make progress on the communications-related action items as outlined by the Tax Commissioner. Oversees the adherence to various communications policies, such as the signage policy, presentation policy and email signature policy. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Prepares press releases and other spotlights on the Office of the Tax Commissioner Maintains positive relationships established with editors and reporters at local media outlets, resulting in prompt publication of important notices and corrections. 

Responds to editorial board regarding the Tax Commissioner’s positions on community and or controversial issues; frequently in contact with print and radio reporters and station managers regarding County, Department of Revenue or State news, meetings, events, etc., including on-air interviews. Notifies press of issues facing the Tax Commissioner that may warrant coverage. 

Oversees the content, consistent branding and messaging across all of the Tax Commissioner’s communications platforms, including website, emails, texts, presentations, publications, speeches, and the functions of the Customer Interaction Center (phone calls).

Monitors design and format of the Tax Commissioner website, including implementation of various divisional linked pages to ensure appropriate content, quality control and consistency. Provides some basic graphic design work and/or contracts with graphic designers for professional services.

Coordinates with outside marketing and professional services on collateral and website functionality.

Prepares annual report magazine; prepares presentations, posters, brochures and other visual displays as needed. 

Screen communications for public issues. Routes inquiry to appropriate department for action. Responds to open records requests for information and materials; resolves complaints and answers questions. 

Coordinates media coverage and provides background information: may advise and/or prepare speeches and public comment on issues facing the Tax Commissioner.

Arranges and coordinates logistics and material for special events (ribbon cuttings, town hall meetings, receptions) at the direction of the Tax Commissioner.

Coordination of communication to ensure holiday, afterhours or other related closures are communicated through appropriate technology. 

Attends Board of Commissioners meetings, work sessions and other events and activities required to maintain a thorough and up-to-date knowledge of government/commission issues and activities. 

Participates on various boards as requested by the Tax Commissioner and reports on activities affecting the Office.

Regular and predictable attendance is required. 

Ability to travel to off-site, overnight conferences or participate in community events. 

Performs other duties, as required. 

MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT & SOFTWARE USED: 

Desktop Computer/Laptop/Camera/Phone/Canva/ADOBE Suite/MS Office Suite

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED: 

Education and Experience: 

Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Communications or related field. 

Five years public relations or media experience is preferred. 

Any equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides the minimum level of qualifications stated above. 

Licenses and Certifications: 

None. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

Ability to communicate effectively, both written and verbal. 

Ability to write, edit, design, layout and print documents. 

Ability to photograph, including familiarity with digitized formats and ability to prepare photos for print, web or other media. 

Knowledge of public relations principles, practices and techniques. 

Knowledge of journalism practices and principles. 

Knowledge of proper grammar and punctuation. 

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, supervisors, staff and other employees. 

ADA MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

Physical Ability: Essential functions of this position continuously require the ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing); operate a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copier, and printer. Incumbents must continuously be able to think analytically; handle stress and emotion, concentrate on tasks, remember names and other details; examine and observe details; make decisions, and adjust to change. Incumbents must also continuously direct others; meet deadlines; stay organized; use math/calculations and use a keyboard/type. 

Essential Functions frequently require the ability to move about inside the office; and move/transport items up to 25lbs. 

Essential functions occasionally require the ability to bend body downward and forward by bending spine and legs, and twisting at the waist, hips or knees; reach overhead; push or pull; and repetitively use hands/arms/legs. Incumbents in this position are occasionally required to be on-call and work irregular hours. 

Sensory Requirements: Essential functions regularly require the ability to use effective verbal and written communication; and use of hand/eye coordination and fine manipulation to use equipment. 

Environmental Factors: Essential functions of this position continuously require the ability to either work with others or work alone. 

This class specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.