Under the general supervision of the Assistant City Manager, the Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for creating and distributing official statements, news releases, and promotional materials to enhance public awareness and understanding of City services and initiatives. The PIO serves as the primary City liaison to news media, ensuring accurate and timely information is conveyed to the public, and manages responses to media inquiries.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY):
- Media Relations: Respond to media inquiries and provide accurate information about city initiatives and services.
- Content Creation: Coordinate the development and distribution of various media content, including videos, social media posts, e-newsletters, photographs, brochures, and website news releases.
- Communication Support: Assist in preparing Titusville Talking Points and monthly articles for local newspapers and represent the City at Council events and speaking engagements.
- Social Media Management: Monitor social media platforms to track trends and identify topics that require timely responses.
- Strategic Communication: Develop and implement communication strategies to ensure key messages reach community stakeholders, reviewing all press releases and public communications for accuracy and professionalism.
- Community Engagement: Participate in City events, conduct educational classes on City services, and oversee programs such as the Citizens Academy to enhance public understanding of City operations.
- Crisis Communication: In emergencies, activate and coordinate crisis communication strategies within the Emergency Management framework.
- Collaboration: Attend meetings with local organizations, including the Titusville Area Visitors Council, Space Coast Florida Public Relations Association, and Brevard County Public Information Network, to align with stakeholders and familiarize with departmental operations.
- Project Updates: Regularly communicate with the supervisor about project status, progress toward goals, and any necessary adjustments to work schedules.
This role is essential for managing City communications, enhancing public engagement, and ensuring timely and accurate information reaches the Titusville community through various platforms and events.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Public Information Officer
- The Public Information Officer must stay updated on emerging communication technologies and demonstrate experience in using and managing multiple social media platforms.
- This role requires excellent judgment in all public communications to ensure clarity, accuracy, and professionalism.
- The position demands the ability to work accurately under pressure or in high-stress situations.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for effectively conveying information to diverse audiences.
- Understanding of photography, photo editing, and video concepts is necessary to produce visually engaging and informative content for public dissemination.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
- Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, marketing, or a related field, along with at least four (4) years of recent public relations experience. The Public Information Officer must become an active member of the Space Coast Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) and obtain Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) within six (6) months of employment.
- Candidates must have or acquire the Basic Public Information Officer training through FEMA within one year specifically IS-29 and E0105.
Pay: $64,064.00 - $105,747.20 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Cell phone reimbursement
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- On-site gym
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Work Location: In person
