Police Communications Administrator

Department: Police | Division: Administration | Immediate Supervisor: Chief of Police | FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Summary

The Police Communications Administrator is a civilian professional responsible for developing, planning, coordinating, managing and delivering the Police Department’s internal and external communication efforts. This role manages media relations, public information releases, digital communication platforms, and community‑facing messaging to support transparency, public trust, and effective information sharing. Working closely with command staff, city communications personnel, and community partners, the Administrator ensures the department’s messaging is accurate, timely, consistent, and aligned with organizational goals during both routine operations and critical incidents. The position oversees the department’s communication functions, including media inquiries, press releases, social media content, website updates, internal communication initiatives, and public messaging during emergencies. The Administrator maintains consistent branding and messaging across all platforms, coordinates with city communication resources, and serves as a primary point of contact for media and public information activities. The role supports strategic communication planning and enhances engagement between the Department, its employees, and the community. The position does not provide direction to other employees and requires the ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Essential Job Functions

• Develops, writes, edits, and coordinates press releases, media statements, public information materials, talking points, presentations, and other communications on behalf of the Police Department.
• Responds to media inquiries and serves as a primary point of contact for news outlets.
• Coordinates communication during critical incidents, ensuring timely and accurate public messaging.
• Exercises operational independence in managing the Department’s social media accounts, website content, and digital communication platforms.
• Creates and maintains internal communication tools, including newsletters, announcements, and employee updates.
• Develops, implements, and maintains cooperative relationships with news media, the public, government entities, elected officials, City employees, and public interest groups.
• Serves as the primary strategic advisor to the Assistant Chiefs and Chief of Police on media relations, public perception, and community engagement initiatives.
• Develops and executes long‑term comprehensive communication strategies, branding campaigns, and community outreach programs and works with City Communications staff to maintain consistency with other departments.
• Produces written, visual, and multimedia content to support community engagement and outreach efforts.
• Monitors public sentiment, media coverage, and online engagement to inform communication strategies.
• Maintains communication protocols, style guides, and content standards for the Department.
• Coordinates with appropriate City personnel regarding public information laws, including open records requirements, as they relate to Department communications.
• Assists in planning and supporting community events, campaigns, and public education initiatives.
• Adheres to the City of Hurst’s Code of Ideals and The Hurst Way, promoting positive employee relations, professionalism, accountability, teamwork, and employee morale throughout the organization.
• Performs all other related duties and special projects as assigned.
• Regular and timely attendance are required for this position.
• Interacts professionally, courteously, and respectfully with the public, coworkers, contractors, vendors, consultants and other stakeholders in the course of daily work.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Knowledge of communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field.
• Experience in public information, media relations, communications, or digital content management.
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, especially during emergencies or time‑sensitive situations.
• Proficiency with social media platforms, content management systems, and basic graphic or video tools.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and sound judgment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a variety of audiences, including Department personnel, City employees, community members, media representatives, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Department personnel, City staff, community partners, media representatives, and the public.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple assignments, meet established deadlines, and work independently with limited supervision.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information.
• Ability to demonstrate excellent customer service and maintain professional and respectful interactions with the public, coworkers, and others.
• Ability to effectively use standard office equipment and computer applications necessary to perform the essential functions of the position.

Physical Demands

• Standing/Walking: about 10 % of the day on concrete, vinyl, or carpeted floors; distance normally 100 feet or less.
• Sitting: about 60 % of the day at a desk or computer terminal.
• Carrying: routinely transport objects up to 100 feet; typical weight 10‑40 lb.
• Lifting: routinely lift objects 10‑40 lb, not normally above shoulder height.
• Pushing/Pulling