Public Information Officer - Public Safety

Starting Hiring Range $51,597 - $63,206, annually The Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Midlothian Police Department serves as the department’s primary spokesperson and strategic communications lead. This position is responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with the media, ensuring timely, accurate, and transparent dissemination of information related to police operations, and supporting public trust and confidence in both the department and the City of Midlothian. The PIO reports directly to the Chief of Police or the Chief’s designee, with direct access to command staff for media-related matters. The PIO advises the Chief of Police and command staff on media relations, crisis communications, and public messaging, and coordinates the release of information in compliance with applicable laws, policies, and procedures. Essential Job Functions Serve as the official spokesperson for the Midlothian Police Department, or as designated by the Chief of Police, to disseminate information to the public in a timely and accurate manner. Develop and maintain ongoing professional relationships with local, regional, and national media representatives. Foster and maintain relationships with diverse community stakeholders, including local boards, officials, and social service organizations. Respond to media inquiries; coordinate interviews; and prepare the Chief of Police, command staff, and subject‑matter experts for media engagements. Prepare and distribute press releases, advisories, and other communication materials. Plan, facilitate, and document news conferences and media briefings, including video and audio recording when appropriate. Oversee the preparation, review, approval, and dissemination of news releases, public statements, and media advisories, ensuring that all releases comply with the Texas Public Information Act, privacy protections, and other applicable local, state, and federal laws. Respond to and serve as the lead communications coordinator during critical incidents, major crimes, emergencies, and high‑profile events with the intent to provide accurate, life‑saving information to the public. Coordinate messaging with the Administration and Communication & Marketing Department during multi‑departmental incidents to ensure consistent and accurate public messaging. Assist on‑scene incident command with establishing and managing media staging and briefing areas consistent with safety, investigative integrity, and operational needs. Oversee and maintain the Midlothian Police Department’s official social media platforms to ensure content is accurate, timely, professional, and consistent with department policy and community expectations. Coordinate closely with other personnel responsible for MPD and City social media platforms to ensure consistent, accurate, and timely messaging. Monitor media coverage and social media activity related to the department and advise command staff on emerging issues or reputational risks. Advise department personnel on best practices for interacting with the media and the public in a professional and ethical manner. Develop and deliver media relations guidance and training for sworn and civilian employees who may interact with the media. Coordinate with a backup PIO to ensure continuity of operations during absences or extended incidents. Maintain professional knowledge of evolving media practices, public safety communications, and community engagement strategies. Participate in professional public information, law enforcement communications, and emergency management associations as appropriate. Education and Experience High school diploma or GED equivalent, is required. Specialized training or degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Marketing, Digital Media, or a related field is preferred. Two (2) years of demonstrated experience in public information, media relations, community engagement, or public relations involving significant community interaction is required. Experience as a reporter, editor, broadcast journalist, content writer or communications specialist with a reputable news organization is preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Advanced knowledge of media relations, crisis communications, and public records laws, including the Texas Public Information Act. Knowledge of web design and maintenance, as well as social media design, layout, production, and maintenance. Demonstrated ability to communicate sensitive law enforcement information clearly, accurately, and professionally. Ability to follow instructions, safety practices, and perform work accurately and thoroughly which requires performing multiple tasks simultaneously under time pressures and deadlines. Advanced ability to be organized and have efficient management of time and deadlines. Working knowledge of law enforcement operations, investigative processes, and incident command principles. Ability to exercise sound judgment when releasing information during active investigations or critical incidents. Advanced ability to interact with people in a professional and congenial manner. Strong interpersonal skills and credibility to effectively represent the department to the media, community, and partner agencies. Strong written communication skills, including the ability to craft clear and accurate press releases and updates. Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to the same ethical standards expected of sworn law enforcement personnel. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to be punctual and attend work regularly. Special Requirements Will work regular business hours with required availability outside normal hours for emergencies, critical incidents, court‑related media inquiries, or major events. May be required to respond on‑site to crime scenes, emergency operations centers, or public events. Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check, CJIS and fingerprint check, and be able to comply with state and federal requirements for criminal justice information security standards. This position requires an elevated level of confidentiality. You must be able to preserve the integrity of authorized access and disclosure, including means for protecting personal privacy and the integrity of ongoing criminal investigations. Licenses & Certifications Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record as established by the City of Midlothian driving standards. Must possess approved Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) certification, or obtain within one (1) year of employment and maintain continuing education requirements administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Work Environment Works primarily in a climate‑controlled office environment but will be expected to leave the office and may be exposed to extreme weather working outdoors at public safety incidents or media events. Physical demands are primarily sedentary requiring prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Physical demands require seldom light work (up to 25 lbs.) and the ability to in working with light (up to 20 lbs.) materials. Work may cause light fatigue of eyes and fingers because of routine use of motor senses. #J-18808-Ljbffr Gfoat