Public Information Officer

Applications accepted from:  ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Posting Number: PN# 34112
Division:  OFFICE OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS 
Reporting Location:  1200 TRAVIS  
Workdays & Hours:    Monday – Friday; 9:00 AM –5:00 PM*                                                
                                                                                     *Subject to change

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Represents a city department as spokesperson, relaying information, promoting publicity and fielding questions, for all public/media related activities.
RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages the daily operations of a public information section, including overseeing staff responsible for research and compilation of statistical and historical data. 
• Represents the department as spokesperson and acts as a liaison between the department and the community. Attends various civic, council and business meetings, public dedications and other public event activities.
• Oversees the preparation and distribution of responses to all media requests, information interviews, public inquiries, and City Council requests, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Promotes departmental activities through appropriate media channels.
• Tracks Requests for Council Actions and coordinates City Council correspondence as directed.
• Monitors and responds to public feedback relative to departmental activities and progress. 
• All duties and responsibilities may not be included in the above job descriptions.

WORKING CONDITIONS     
There are no major sources of discomfort, i.e., essentially normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature and air conditions.

“Must be able to pass a criminal background check, obtain and maintain federally mandated security clearance where required.”
 
If applicable, the applicant’s past performance evaluations, past and present supervisory recommendations, and/or Internal Affairs complaint history will be reviewed and considered.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS 
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Public Relations, Public Administration or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS 
Five years of progressive professional experience in media, public relations or a closely related field are required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
None


**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**

Strong background in crisis, internal and public communications, be a skilled writer and be experienced in social media content development, planning, and execution.
This position will require candidates to be in an on-call rotation on weekdays and/or weekends to staff HPD personnel and respond to critical/emergency situations.SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED 
Department may administer skills assessment test.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION
YES, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION             
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade 26

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov. 
 
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call (713-308-1289).
 
If you need special services or accommodations, call (713-308-1289). (TTY 7-1-1)
 
If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
 
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
 
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.   

EEO Equal Employment Opportunity
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy