Public Information Officer UN

The Public Information Officer (PIO) develops, coordinates, and implements public information and communications strategies for an assigned City of Albuquerque department. The position is responsible for communicating department programs, services, initiatives, and activities to the public and news media through clear, accurate, timely, and effective communications.

The PIO serves as a primary media liaison for the assigned department and may serve as a department spokesperson when appropriate. Responsibilities include developing strategic communications plans; responding to media inquiries; preparing news releases, media advisories, statements, talking points, and other written materials; planning and coordinating press conferences and media events; and supporting digital communications and public outreach.

The PIO works closely with department leadership, subject matter experts, and the City's Communications and Marketing team to ensure communications are accurate, coordinated, and consistent with City policies, priorities, and established procedures. The position requires strong writing skills, sound judgment, initiative, and the ability to manage multiple assignments and respond effectively to time-sensitive or sensitive situations.

The position may require on-call availability and work outside regular business hours, including evenings and weekends.

This is an unclassified at-will position

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

1. Develop, implement, and evaluate strategic communications plans to inform the public about department programs, services, initiatives, and priorities.
2. Serve as a primary media contact and department spokesperson, when appropriate; respond to media inquiries, coordinate interviews, and maintain professional relationships with news organizations.
3. Research, write, edit, and distribute public information materials, including press releases, media advisories, statements, talking points, speeches, newsletters, and digital content.
4. Work with department leadership, subject matter experts, and the City's Communications and Marketing team to verify information, develop messaging, and coordinate communications in accordance with City procedures.
5. Plan and coordinate press conferences, media briefings, public announcements, and other communications-related events, including logistics, speakers, and supporting materials.
6. Identify proactive communications opportunities, develop media pitches, monitor news coverage, and recommend responses to emerging issues.
7. Develop and coordinate website content, social media, photography, video, publications, and other communications materials in collaboration with appropriate City staff.
8. Prepare department leadership and City officials for media interviews and public appearances, including developing briefing materials, key messages, and anticipated questions.
9. Assist with public information and media coordination during emergencies, critical incidents, and other sensitive or time-sensitive situations.
10. Maintain communications records, media contacts, activity trackers, and reports; coordinate public outreach efforts and evaluate communications effectiveness.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Represent the department at community meetings, professional events, and other activities as appropriate.
2. Participate in professional development and assist with special projects and other related duties as assigned.

Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in journalism, communications, public relations, marketing, public administration, or a related field preferred; and

Three (3) years of professional experience in public information, media relations, journalism, public relations, strategic communications, or a related field preferred.

When assigned to Environmental Health Department:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in journalism, communications, business administration, public relations or a related field preferred; and

Three (3) years of marketing or communications experience preferred; and

To include one (1) year of supervisory experience preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License, or the ability to obtain by date of hire.

Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

May be required to work nights and weekends on occasion.

Environmental: Office environment, exposure to computer screens. May travel from site to site.  

Physical: Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking, standing or setting for prolonged periods of time.