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JOB SUMMARY
The Public Information Officer (PIO) serves as the official spokesperson for the City of Buda and as the primary point of contact between the City and media outlets. This role is responsible for creating and disseminating information about City policies, programs, and initiatives, and promoting positive relationships between the City and its residents, including information related to special events, current events, construction and development projects, and other newsworthy items. The PIO works with subject matter experts throughout the organization on media interview coordination, coordinates interviews and talking points with the City Manager and Mayor and City Council Members, and builds and maintains relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets. Responsible for crisis communications, the PIO works closely with Public Safety, Emergency Management, and other key stakeholders. The PIO reports to the Director of Community Relations and Destination Services.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
· Serve as the primary spokesperson for the city government, responding to media inquiries, interviews, and public speaking engagements.
· Write and edit press releases, speeches, and newsletters. Work closely with department staff on creating website content, social media posts, and other communication materials.
· Coordinate with department heads and city officials to gather information, provide guidance on communication best practices, and ensure messaging consistency.
· Provide on-camera and media training to staff, including subject matter experts.
· Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, state, and national media and keep updated list of all media contacts, including print, television, and radio.
· Coordinate all media inquiries and interviews with appropriate staff, elected or appointed officials, and/or partner agencies, including conducting research, creating talking points, and strategizing on messaging.
· Monitor media coverage and public sentiment related to the city, and proactively address any issues or concerns as they arise.
· Stay informed about local, state, and national issues affecting the city and identify opportunities to promote the city's interests or address public concerns.
· Organize press conferences, community events, and public forums to facilitate dialogue and engagement between city officials and residents.
· Develop and implement strategies for soliciting public input and comments.
· Manage crisis communication efforts, including developing emergency communication plans and providing timely updates during critical incidents or disasters.
· Cultivate relationships with local, regional, state, and national media outlets, community organizations, and stakeholders to enhance the city's visibility and reputation.
· Utilize analytics and feedback mechanisms to evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies and adjust approaches as needed.
· Exercises considerable initiative, independent judgment, and confidentiality.
· Exhibits regular, reliable and punctual attendance, which is an essential function of the job.
· Support the Department of Community Relations and Destinations Services staff leading up to and during special events.
· Performs other related job duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, public relations, or a related field; and at least (3) years of work experience in communication, journalism, or public relations. Any combination of experience and education may be considered. Experience in crisis communications preferred.
Special Qualifications:
· Previous experience in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably in a government or municipal setting.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
· Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with colleagues, elected officials, community leaders, and members of the media.
· Demonstrated proficiency in drafting press releases, speeches, articles, and other communication materials for various platforms.
· Experience managing social media accounts, website content, and other digital communication channels.
· Knowledge of media relations practices, including how to cultivate relationships with reporters, pitch stories, and respond to media inquiries.
· Ability to work under pressure, prioritize competing demands, and maintain composure during crisis situations.
· Familiarity with public records laws, ethical standards for public communication, and best practices for maintaining transparency and accountability.
· Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and irregular hours as needed to respond to media inquiries or participate in community events.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work is light and includes exerting up to 20 pounds occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects and the following physical abilities: fingering, hearing, mental acuity, speaking, standing, talking, visual acuity, and walking.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work is typically performed in a safe and secure work environment that may periodically have unpredicted requirements or demands. Must have flexible schedule after work hours and on weekends for any media relations needs.
Full Time
$58k-75k (estimate)
05/31/2024
07/28/2024
buda.tx.us
Buda, TX
<25
The job skills required for Public Information Officer include Public Relations, Initiative, Media Relations, Coordination, Graphic Design, Verbal Communication, etc. Having related job skills and expertise will give you an advantage when applying to be a Public Information Officer. That makes you unique and can impact how much salary you can get paid. Below are job openings related to skills required by Public Information Officer. Select any job title you are interested in and start to search job requirements.
The following is the career advancement route for Public Information Officer positions, which can be used as a reference in future career path planning. As a Public Information Officer, it can be promoted into senior positions as a Community Relations Manager that are expected to handle more key tasks, people in this role will get a higher salary paid than an ordinary Public Information Officer. You can explore the career advancement for a Public Information Officer below and select your interested title to get hiring information.