PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER - CITY OF BEAUFORT : Job Details

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK: The Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for the development, management and administration of strategic outreach, media relations, and communications of City-wide initiatives and other information for external and internal audiences. The PIO also manages the messaging of community priorities and City information as the City's webmaster and social media manager. ****In addition, this position is responsible for the administration and management of the City's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) program.**** ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The following functions are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of the specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. •Serves as the Public Information Officer (PIO) and provides in-house expertise in the fields of public information and communications for all City departments. •Develops, implements and manages the City's strategic communications program to enhance two-way communication between the City and its residents through printed publications as well as government access television and websites; writes, designs and produces a variety of public information materials in print, electronic, audio and video formats; and develops and implements policies and procedures regarding public information and community involvement programs on issues affecting the organization. •Assists the City Manager with public relations and administers the City's social media presence, website, and other public media content. •Conveys complex issues, events and concepts in succinct, easy-to-understand language, both in writing and orally. •Promptly and professionally responds to queries from media regarding City priorities, operations and decisions. •Working with the Assistant City Manager, administers and manages the City's FOIA program, to include fielding and responding to FOIA requests, working with departments to provide guidance and help retrieve requested records, and keeping the City Manager aware of all FOIA requests and responses. •Writes reports as requested; uses sound judgement in semi routine situations; follows established policies and guidelines. •Oversees the daily operation of all media activities both internal and external. •Provides exceptional customer service to internal and external customers. •Develops budget priorities for the annual budget and prepares a program budget for review and approval. •Oversees and manages all neighborhood meetings and presentations. •Develops marketing plans for the City in conjunction with the Designated Marketing Organization (DMO), and other various City associations. •Acts as City spokesperson when needed, or as directed by the City Manager. •Will act as writer and producer of various City reports and will work with all City departments. •Travels frequently to off-site locations for special events, community meetings and other City business. •Will perform other related tasks as assigned by the City Manager. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: •Working knowledge of marketing and public relations best practices; •Ability to meet self-imposed and supervisor-directed deadlines. •Ability to organize and convey information for ease of public consumption, through designing a web page, use of social media, drafting a media release, or any other means of communication. •Must be able to adapt to emerging communication methods, to include but not limited to the use of Artificial Intelligence and the production of podcasts. •Must have strong computer and social media skills and knowledge. •Must have or obtain a valid SC Driver's License •Must be able to pass security background check. •Must be able to work evenings and weekend when required. •Must have strong presentation skills. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: •Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, graphic design or related field required. •Three to five years of experience in managerial-level media relations, government relations and/or community relations or any equivalent combination of education and experience. •Prior public sector experience preferred. •Experience in emergency management operations and communication preferred. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: •This work requires sitting, speaking or hearing, and requires standing and walking. ****SALARY RANGE: $64,000-$80,000 (DEPENDING ON QUALIFICATIONS)**** FSLA STATUS: EXEMPT Position : 10214 Code : 49-2 Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL Posting Start : 10/31/2024 Posting End : 11/30/2024 SALARY RANGE: $64,000.00-$80,000.00