Job Description

Posting number: 26-00367

Department: City Manager's Office

Division: CMO_DCMG1_Communications

Job classification: Public Information Officer

Posting type: Open

Categories: Public Relations, Parks, Communications

Summary

The City of Bellevue is hiring a Public Information Officer for Parks & Community Services Department.

Public Information Officer plans and administers public information initiatives and public relations programs to effectively represent the City of Bellevue to the media and the public. May be assigned to a specific department, division or function. Serves as a public information officer (PIO) and administers related activities. Manages, develops, coordinates and implements the communication of information that is important to residents, businesses, news media and the city. Implements communication strategies and leads programs and staff in the messaging and communication of various citywide information, initiatives and programs. Promotes resident involvement in city government and provides opportunities for residents to learn about city programs, services and operations.

Supervision Received and Exercised:

• Works under the general supervision of a manager
• May supervise staff and volunteers, as assigned
• Works closely and collaboratively with department leadership to plan and prioritize communications work

Examples of duties

Performs duties and responsibilities commensurate with assigned functional area which may include any combination of the following tasks:

• Defines goals for information and public relations initiatives and programs; recommends methods and techniques for implementation.
• Leads public relations for assigned teams; organizes and facilitates meetings; advises and assists in the development of key messages and the overall communication plan; provides training and support to staff in order to ensure consistent, accurate messaging.
• Analyzes public understanding and advises on methods to inform and educate the community.
• Produces and coordinates dissemination of information and materials including publications, social media, brochures, newsletters, videos, web information and materials; meets with staff to determine key messages and themes.
• Prepares and presents written and verbal communications, easily comprehensible for a variety of audiences.
• Develops and implements communications plans; prepares communication plans for potential emergencies and crisis situations.
• Presents information to the public in a timely and effective manner.
• Anticipates news media responses and acts as spokesperson accordingly.
• Provides prompt, accurate public information during emergency and crisis situations.
• Communicates information to employees and the public, ensuring a consistent, effective, and efficient process.
• Ensures that messages in print, web-based, and TV media are factual and consistent with the city’s image and branding.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies

• Knowledge of public relations and public involvement techniques and strategies; knowledge of media relations strategies; working knowledge or strong interest in project, department or program being represented.
• Knowledge of elements of web page design; ability to write and oversee the design of promotional and informational materials.
• Skill in making persuasive public presentations.
• Skill in listening and responding to residents and other customers on a variety of issues.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with the news media, employees, managers, residents, appointed and elected officials; ability to work in a team environment and to work independently.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under deadline, accomplish goals using sound analytical and decision-making skills and to creatively problem solve complex issues.

Core Competencies

• Focuses on the Customer: We are focused on the needs of the customer, and on developing strong relationships with our customers.
• Instills Trust: Through authenticity, integrity and honesty, we gain the trust and respect of all of those with whom we work.
• Communicates Effectively: We understand the need to develop multiple forms of communication across several channels to address the needs of all of the audiences with whom we are engaging.
• Cultivates Innovation: We are focused on generating new and creative ways for our organization to be successful and communicate effectively in a changing world.
• Values Differences: Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.

Education, Experience, and Other Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in communications, public relations or related field.
• Four or more years of professional experience involving communicating with the public or other related areas.
• Or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Driver’s License may be required.

Supplemental information

Physical Demands

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work involves moving, communicating, operating objects, tools, or controls and reaching.
• Vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee may be required to transport, position, install and/or move objects up to 20 pounds.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet while in the office or moderately loud when in the field.

Flexible/Hybrid Working:

A hybrid work schedule is available for this position after an orientation period working in the office after hire. Remote work for this position is subject to department's operational needs and will be discussed with candidates during the selection process. Full-time remote work is not an available option. Once hired, employees must reside in the State of Washington and within reasonable commuting distance to Bellevue City Hall.