Public Information Specialist

Public Information Specialist

We are hiring a Public Information Specialist for Austin Resource Recovery's Public Information and Marketing division. This role will collaborate with colleagues to develop and implement creative marketing campaigns to promote department programs to diverse audiences. They will draft messaging for a variety of tactics, including blogs, newsletters and advertising. They will also respond to media inquiries, write talking points and coordinate interviews with the media.

Job Description

Public Information Specialist

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for the dissemination of news and information (written and oral) to the general public, City employees, and the media regarding departmental and/or City-wide programs. These duties may contribute to any or all of the following areas: marketing, public relations, media relations, and publication of documents for internal and external education and communication.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Writes, plans, organizes, directs, coordinates, and edits articles for publication in a variety of forms, including electronic publication. Coordinates all aspects of production of marketing materials.
• Performs media relations duties to include media buying, news releases, and fielding questions from media. Performs public relations duties to include public and school education, presentations, tours of public facilities, and requests for information from the general public.
• Assists in the planning and development of advertising, promotional campaigns, strategies.
• Provides event coordination services, such as arranging facilities, contacting media, inviting all appropriate groups and individuals, etc.
• Designs, researches, writes, and edits newsletters; releases for internal or external use.
• Develops and updates intranet and internet web sites.
• Produces public service announcements and videos and photography for promotional use.
• Designs and maintains databases, such as mailing lists, association and organization lists, etc.
• Receives, investigates, and answers questions from external media and public. Serves as liaison for media and general public.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised

Conducts training of personnel regarding how to communicate with the media, train external media on departments' media standard operating procedures.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of public information, marketing, public relations, media relations programs.
• Knowledge of the functions and organization of municipal government, to include the relationships between departments, divisions and agencies.
• Knowledge of the principles associated with the role of meeting the necessary standards of customer service.
• Knowledge Federal, State and Local laws.
• Knowledge of City practice, policy and procedures.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in handling multiple projects and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Ability to interpret policies and guidelines.
• Ability to write articles for publication.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to lead and train others.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Graduation with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, Advertising or related field; OR
• Experience: Four (4) years of experience in developing and implementing programs of public information

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience writing content and adjusting tone and style for a variety of marketing materials and other communication tactics.
• Experience leading communication and marketing campaigns aimed at reaching diverse audiences.
• Experience writing press releases, responding to media inquiries, compiling talking points and/or written responses, and coordinating interviews.
• Proficiency in Spanish or a secondary language other than English.
• Ability to travel to more than one work location.

Notes to Candidate

Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) is a department of the City of Austin with over 530 employees. We provide essential services that protect people and our planet. We collect recycling, composting, trash, large brush, bulk items, household hazardous waste and dead animals. We also sweep the streets, offer Austin and Travis County residents a service to recycle and safely dispose of household hazardous waste and provide community outreach and education. ARR is driving the global transformation of traditional waste management to sustainable resource recovery. Learn more at AustinRecycles.com.

Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) seeks a talented Public Information Specialist. As part of ARR's Public Information and Marketing division, this role will work with internal clients, subject matter experts and teammates to develop and implement creative marketing campaigns to reach diverse audiences. They will also respond to media inquiries, write talking points and, coordinate and provide interviews with the media.

The successful candidate will be a professional with excellent diplomacy skills, and an empathetic and inclusive work philosophy. They will demonstrate the ability to focus and work well under pressure, including in emergency scenarios and crisis management. They are confident with their communication skills, are highly self-motivated, curious and creative, and develop relationships built on trust. If this sounds like you, apply to join our team!

Location: 1520 Rutherford Lane, Austin, TX, 78754

Days/Hours: Monday – Friday; 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Telework opportunities are available according to business needs.

Salary Range: $29.89 – $37.37 per hour

Your detailed and complete employment application will be used to evaluate your qualifications and determine your salary if you are selected for this position.

Join the City of Austin Team

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference : Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
• Value and Innovation : Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.
• Competitive Benefits : Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security : Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options : Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness : Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth : Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
• Modern Workspaces : Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call View phone number on click.appcast.io or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.