Public Relations Coordinator

JOB SUMMARY

Supports municipal outreach efforts under the direction of the Director of Communications, including serving as a liaison between the Police Department and the community. The coordinator helps maintain citywide communication initiatives and promotes a consistent, positive public image of municipal services. This position leads the Police Department’s community engagement initiatives, manages content and interaction across social media platforms, and coordinates public messaging to strengthen relationships with residents.

SUPERVISION

Reports to the Director of Communications.

This is not a supervisory position. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills.  This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodation will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Media Relations 

• Assist with media inquiries and prepare news releases for the City and Police Department.
• Prepare monthly reports on social media account activity.
• Comply with and help update city social media policies.
• Disseminate timely information to the public on weather, traffic, emergency alerts, and other public notices.

Police Communications

• Serve as a liaison between the community, media, and Police Department.
• Act as spokesperson for the Police Department in non-emergency situations, in coordination with the Director of Communications and Chief of Police.
• Marketing

Marketing

• Coordinate photography and videography for city programs and events.
• Assist in video planning, recording, and editing for internal and external communications.
• Create graphic design content for social media, fliers, and advertisements.
• Promote and provide post-event coverage for Police Department outreach activities.
• Manage content for digital displays.

Content Planning

•  Manage content calendars for social media, newsletters, websites, and TV displays.
• Develop and implement quarterly social media campaigns.
• Analyze social media metrics to guide future strategy.
• Assist with e-newsletter content, layout, and publication. 

Websites

• Maintain up-to-date, engaging, and accessible website content.
• Coordinate photography for use across web and social platforms.
• Ensure the city website is user-friendly.
• Provide monthly website analytics reports on usage and engagement trends.

Emergency Management 

• Support the Director of Communications during emergency activations and serve in a backup Emergency Public Information Officer capacity.
• Assist in disseminating emergency-related information under the guidance of communications and emergency management personnel.
  

Other Duties

• Participate in professional associations (e.g., TAMIO, 3CMA); build a professional network. 
• Assist in communication skill development for staff in other departments.
• Cross train to backup the Director of Communications 
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field is required. A minimum of four (4) years of experience in public relations, media relations, or a similar communications role is preferred. Graphic design, Certified Public Communicator, and municipal experience is preferred.

A combination of education and relevant professional experience that demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and advancement in the field of communications may be considered in lieu of the degree and experience requirements.

Knowledge of:

• Social media best practices, particularly for public safety communication.
• Proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, and usage.
• Microsoft Office, Canva, and basic video editing software.
• Basic recordkeeping procedures.
• Graphic design principles. 

Skills and Abilities:

• Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Work independently and efficiently under minimal supervision.
• Stay calm and act appropriately under pressure or during emergencies.
• Understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships.
• Adapt to varied schedules as needed.
• Be punctual and regular in attendance.

LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

Valid Texas Driver’s License

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AND CONDITIONS

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting.
• Frequent repetitive motions such as typing and prolonged computer use.
• Occasional bending, kneeling, or lifting (up to 25 lbs.).
• May respond to emotionally challenging environments (e.g., major accidents or crime scenes) to support public information functions.
• May work some weekends and nights

Normal duty hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. May be required to work some weekends and nights. Benefits include 100% employer paid employee only medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums. Paid vacation, holiday, and sick leave available. Participation in the Texas Municipal Retirement System is required, as well as Social Security deductions.  

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Salary : $55,000 - $65,000