Public Information Officer

City of Millbrae • Full-time • Millbrae, CA, US • 2w ago

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, provides coordination of public information including recommendation and implementation of a comprehensive public information program that includes news and program communication, media relations, public engagement and relations, crisis communication, and image branding and marketing; manages and coordinates the development and maintenance of web content; and provides professional and technical assistance to the City Manager.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Public Information Officer is responsible for acting as a spokesperson and participating in the development and implementation of media and public relations programs for the City. The incumbent performs a variety of administrative and communication duties and is expected to use judgment and skill in maintaining a positive and professional image for the City through various communication platforms, materials and marketing strategies.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from the City Manager. Exercises no supervision.

Duties And Responsibilities

The duties listed below are illustrative only and are not meant to be a full and exhaustive listing of all of the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Develop, manage, oversee, and implement a comprehensive public relations program utilizing various forms of media; oversee distribution of information to the public.
Promote awareness of City news, programs, and initiatives by communicating and disseminating information to the public through social media, web posts, videos, fact sheets, and other promotional and public information materials.
Initiate and write press releases, public service announcements, and articles on City activities, programs, and policies; determine methods of presentation and distribution; write, edit, publish, and disseminate newsletters and other informational publications.
Prepare speeches, remarks, scripts, and discussion points for press conferences or internal events.
Produce brochures and promotional material; write scripts and narrate videos for posting to our websites and digital media; and submit photos for various municipal needs.
Promote City-sponsored community events, activities, and programs; act as a liaison to citizens, schools, and community groups in providing information and promoting a positive image of the City.
Oversee the City’s web site design, content, and branding approaches and strategies.
Answer inquiries by telephone or in person to accurately provide information requested or to refer people to the proper source of information.
Respond to media and public inquiries and disseminate public information, during and in response to crises, emergencies, and other critical situations.
Prepare public information response plans for emergency and disaster situations.
Respond to or coordinate information with city departments and staff to respond to reporter questions and inquiries on a variety of topics.
Work with City departments in preparation and dissemination of news items.
Take photography or videography of events for distribution with City related press releases and feature stories.
Serve on committees responsible for planning and executing public outreach events.
Review daily and weekly newspapers, and digital media for City related stories and report on sentiments appropriately.
Attend meetings of the Council, boards, commissions, and committees as required.
Serve on assigned committees, community groups, and task forces.
Communicate effectively with county, regional, state, and national representatives; represent the city in events or meetings as assigned.
Perform related duties as assigned.

Job-related Qualifications

Knowledge of: Principles and practices of journalism, public relations, and mass communications; applicable laws pertaining to local government; principles, practices, techniques, and methods of gathering, preparing, and disseminating public information, both written and digital, and through the spoken word; principles and practices of media production, graphic design. printing methods, and photographic techniques; advanced knowledge of social media, website management, emergency information, and historical perspective; Associated Press style print guidelines and broadcast standard style writing; ethical principles and practices related to the field of journalism; the methods and practices for effective public speaking. English language mechanics, syntax, grammar, and spelling.

Ability and Skill to: Plan, coordinate, and analyze a variety of communication activities; make sound policy and procedural recommendations; use good judgement in the dissemination of information to the public and other community and governmental stakeholders; interpret and apply Federal, State, City and departmental laws, policies, procedures, and regulations. prepare clear, concise briefs, articles, news releases, web content, and media content; skill in critical thinking and problem-solving, principles and practices of complex community and intergovernmental relations, media relations, community outreach, and public affairs issues and strategies; ability to develop relationships with media professionals evaluate and recommend changes to policies, programs, and practices; ability to exercise tact, diplomacy, and discretion in dealing with highly sensitive, complex, confidential, and controversial issues and situations; plan, organize, and carry out assignments with minimal supervision and direction; ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; speak effectively before large groups. establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of duties; handle sensitive and high-profile duties while managing multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to utilize media technology and general office software.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING GUIDELINES

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way would be:

Education: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in Public Administration, Communications, Journalism, or related field.

Experience: Four (4) years of professional level experience in media, public relations, and marketing experience in a complex organization.

Licenses: Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license.

Special Requirements

Speak clearly and understandably; ability to work in a standard office environment and use computer software applicable to the job; physical stamina and mental alertness to work additional hours to meet deadlines; hear and speak well enough to converse by telephone and in person and be clearly understood.