PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Job Title

Public Information Officer

Job Description

Represents the Houston Health Department (HHD) as a liaison between city council members and the health department, relaying information, promoting publicity and fielding questions, for all public/media related activities.

Responsibilities

Act as liaison between city council members and HHD programs leaders. Assists with the daily operations of a public information section, including conducting research and gathering statistical and historical data, and health data information. Possesses firm command of the Associate Press Style Book to assist with editing and proofing departmental content and messaging. Help develop and promote department's media messaging in print and digital formats. 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. Bilingual (Spanish speaking). Assist with 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. Assist with requests for Council Actions and coordinates City Council correspondence as directed. Monitors and responds to public feedback relative to departmental activities and progress. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Public Relations, Public Administration or a closely related field. Five years of progressive professional experience in media, public relations or a closely related field are required.

Preferences

Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such people who 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. Candidates preferred to be Bilingual in Spanish. Previous Radio/TV News Reporter experience. Clear understanding of the local and national News cycle/operations. Outstanding written and verbal communications skills.

General Information

Selection/Skills Tests Required None; however, the department may administer a skills assessment review. Safety Impact Position: NO. Salary Information - Grant Fund Position Grants & Special funded positions are dependent upon continued available funds. If funding is no longer available, employee may be laid off or transferred. Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification. The minimum to midpoint of this salary range is: Salary Range - Pay Grade 26. Applications 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: To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: or call View phone number on click.appcast.io. If you need special services or accommodations, call View phone number on click.appcast.io. (TTY 7-1-1) If you need login assistance or technical support call View phone number on click.appcast.io. 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.

Benefits

The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Wellness, Supplemental Insurance, Life insurance, Long-term disability, Retirement pension, 457 deferred compensation plan, Employee Assistance Program, 10 days of vacation each year, 13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday, Compensable Sick Leave, Personal Leave, Flexible schedules, Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions, Professional development opportunities, Transportation/parking plan, Section 125 pretax deductions, Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan, Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves, Healthcare Flexible Spending Account.