Public Information Officer

POSITION SUMMARY

Under limited supervision of the District Manager, the Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for managing the District’s public image and ensuring effective communication with stakeholders, including the media, government agencies, and the public. This role involves developing and executing public relations strategies to promote positive perceptions of the organization, handling media inquiries, organizing events, and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders. The PIO plays a pivotal role in crisis communication, managing press releases, and maintaining the organization's brand integrity across various channels.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are illustrative for this position. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Essential functions indicated with an *.

• Serves as the designated spokesperson and liaison for the District to the public and media outlets.*
• Using modern communications equipment and social media, the PIO manages the public relations and public information program for the District; write media releases, newsletters and informational brochures; multi-media presentations and take photographs; design, organize and maintain web platforms.*
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with media outlets, responding to inquiries, and arranging interviews and press conferences.*
• Collaborate with internal departments and maintain open communication with management to ensure consistent messaging and timely dissemination of information.*
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, community leaders, HOA’s, property managers, other municipalities and other districts.*
• Draft and distribute press releases, statements, and other communication materials to accurately and positively reflect the District actions and policies.*
• Proactively monitor and analyze public opinion and provide recommendations for improving public perception of the District.*
• Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans to effectively promote the mission, initiatives, and accomplishments of the District.*
• Stay up-to-date on relevant news, as well as state laws and regulations related to public information.*
• Prepare and manage crisis communication plans to address potential issues and mitigate negative publicity.*
• Attends public meetings and events and gives presentations when required.*
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with State and Local officials and media representatives related to emergencies, repairs and/or storm events.*
• Seek opportunities for partnerships and education.
• Uphold transparency and ethics in all communication and decision making.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:

• Requires an accredited high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing or Related Field is preferred and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.

Certifications, Licenses, Registrations:

• Possession of a valid State of Florida driver’s license.
• Must acquire Utility Customer Relations Level 1 certificate from FWPCOA (or equivalent) within 5 years.
• Completion of FEMA Emergency Management Institute training courses within twenty-four months of hire. Required courses include IS-100.B Introduction to Incident Command System (ICS-100), IS700.B: An Introduction to the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and IS-200.C: Basic Incidents Command System for Initial Response.
• State of Florida Ethics Training.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of public relations principles and strategies.
• Ability to remain calm and respectful in stressful situations.
• Ability to plan and coordinate public appearances.
• Excellent public speaking skills.
• Excellent written communication skills with a proven ability to write in a journalistic style that is customary for external publications.
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with media contacts and outlets.
• Excellent organizational skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent time management skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Advanced knowledge and understanding of social media and other outlets.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, hear, and use hands to handle paperwork and electronic devices. The employee is frequently required to walk and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand and stoop, kneel, and crouch. The employee may lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. This position also requires good listening skills and note taking.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $26.44 - $44.88 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Do you posses a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing or Related Field and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)
• State of Florida Ethics Training Certification (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $26 - $45