PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER (PIO)

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER (PIO)

Job Classification: Exempt | Salary Range: $4,300 to $5,762

Reports To: City Manager & Chief of Police

Departments Served: All City Departments (City Administration, Police, Public Works, Planning & Development, Parks & Recreation, Finance)

JOB SUMMARY

The Public Information Officer (PIO) serves as the primary spokesperson and communications liaison for the City of King City, responsible for ensuring accurate, timely, and effective communication between city departments, residents, the media, and stakeholders. This position develops and implements public relations strategies, oversees media engagement, manages digital content, and coordinates crisis communication efforts to enhance transparency, public trust, and civic engagement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Citywide Public Relations & Media Relations

• Serves as the official spokesperson for the City of King City and its departments.
• Develops and executes a citywide communication strategy to inform the public about municipal programs, public safety efforts, policies, and services.
• Writes and distributes press releases, media advisories, and official statements.
• Establishes and maintains strong relationships with journalists, media outlets, and community organizations.
• Monitors news coverage and public sentiment, addressing misinformation and ensuring accurate reporting.Prepares city officials and department heads for press interviews, public meetings, and speaking engagements.
• Organizes and facilitates press conferences, media briefings, and public information sessions.

Community Engagement & Public Outreach

• Plan and implement public awareness campaigns on key city initiatives.
• Organize and promote town halls, community forums, and public meetings to encourage civic engagement.
• Develop brochures, newsletters, annual reports, and fact sheets to educate residents on city services.
• Responds to public inquiries and concerns, ensuring transparency and accountability in city communications.
• Works with Homeowners Associations (HOAs), local businesses, civic groups, and non-profits to enhance public relations efforts.

Crisis & Emergency Communication

• Leads emergency communication efforts during crises, disasters, or significant citywide incidents.
• Works closely with law enforcement, emergency response teams, and city officials to provide real-time updates.
• Develops and maintains crisis communication plans, ensuring coordination with FEMA, state, and local agencies.
• Issues timely alerts and updates via social media, city websites, press releases, and emergency notification systems.
• Monitors and mitigates misinformation or rumors during critical situations.

Digital & Social Media Management

• Oversees and manages the city’s website and official social media platforms (Facebook, X, Instagram, Nextdoor, YouTube).
• Develops engaging digital content, videos, infographics, and live broadcasts to inform and engage the community.
• Implements a social media policy for city departments, ensuring consistent and professional messaging.
• Monitors public feedback, social media interactions, and community engagement metrics.

Interdepartmental Coordination & Government Collaboration

• Works with City Administration, Police, Public Works, Planning, Parks & Recreation, and Finance to streamline communication efforts.
• Assists city leadership in preparing speeches, presentations, and reports for public and government meetings.
• Provides training for city staff on media engagement, crisis communication, and public relations best practices.
• Coordinates with state, county, and federal agencies on joint communication initiatives and intergovernmental messaging.
• Represents King City in regional and state public affairs meetings related to government communication.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, Government Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in public relations, media communications, or governmental affairs.
• Experience in government, municipal administration, law enforcement, or emergency management preferred.
• Prior experience in crisis communication and emergency response coordination is highly desirable.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong public speaking and presentation abilities.
• Proficiency in digital media, website management, and social media strategy.
• Graphic design and video editing skills (e.g., Canva, Adobe Suite, Final Cut Pro) preferred.
• Knowledge of media laws, public records policies, and confidentiality regulations.
• Strong crisis management skills and ability to develop emergency communication strategies.
• Interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

WORKING CONDITIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• Primarily Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with flexibility for evening and weekend events and potential modified hybrid work place.
• Must be available on-call during emergencies, nights, and weekends.
• Some travel may be required for regional meetings, training, or conferences.
• Valid Oregon Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record required.
• Ability to obtain a LEDS (Law Enforcement Data System) certification (for police-related communications).
• Completion of FEMA’s Public Information Officer training (preferred but not required).

PERFORMANCE METRICS & EVALUATION

• Effectiveness of media engagement (press coverage, public response, social media metrics).
• Quality and clarity of public messaging (readability, accessibility, audience reach).
• Response time and effectiveness during crisis situations.
• Level of public engagement (survey responses, town hall participation, feedback from community members).
• Collaboration and coordination with city departments.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not encompass all responsibilities and qualifications required. Specific duties and requirements may vary based on departmental needs and policies.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $4,300.00 - $5,762.00 per month

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• On call
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Do you have 3-5 years of experience in public relations, media communications, or governmental affairs?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Public relations: 3 years (Required)

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)
• FEMA’s Public Information Officer Certification (Preferred)
• LEDS (Law Enforcement Data System) certification (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• King City, OR 97224 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• King City, OR 97224: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $4,300 - $5,762