Public Information Officer

About the role

This is a continuous recruitment. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The first review of applications will take place on June 10, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Develop, organize, and execute activity to implement a comprehensive communications and public relations program utilizing various forms of media;
• Oversee distribution of information to the public;
• Develop, produce, publish and or disseminate various communication and informational materials, including newsletters, brochures, factsheets, articles, multi-media presentations, correspondence, reports, speeches, and special position papers on City activities, programs and policies;
• Manage, create and oversee distribution of information to the public;
• Oversee and manage the City’s graphics services function, including photography, audiovisual presentations, and city publications, including logos, posters, and flyers; set design and communications standards; conducts brand audits of work produced by City employees;
• Manage and interface with the media including inquiries, crisis management, and emergencies, providing factual, clear, and vetted information that supports the City’s interests and enhances positive relations.
• Determine methods of presentation and distribution; researches, writes, edits, and issues press releases, media advisories, news articles, feature stories, and public service announcements;
• Manage and routinely update the City's social media accounts, such as Nextdoor, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Nixle;
• Provide training and technical support to staff on marketing, advertising, writing, publicity, and communication strategies and policies to City Departments; provide branding guidelines and training;
• Assist in the development and maintenance of the City's website; create and update web pages; write scripts and narrate videos for posting to website and digital media; provide guidance and oversight to other City departments regarding website and online content;
• Promote City-sponsored community events, outreach, and educational activities and programs; act as a liaison and present to citizens, schools, and community groups to provide information and promoting a positive image of the City; schedule and provide public tours of the City;
• Attend meetings of the Council, boards, commissions, and committees as required; serve on assigned committees, community groups, and task forces;
• Coordinate and conducts news conferences and other special events, including groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, and other community functions as assigned;
• Provide communication support services for the Mayor and City Council such as preparing speeches, addresses, presentation points, and advice on strategic delivery of information;
• Participate in crisis management planning and assist with developing of crisis communication plan and written materials;
• Represent the City in governmental, community and professional meetings;
• Cook up and develop regional and community partnerships to promote the City’s interests and messaging.
• Respond to and resolves difficult and sensitive citizen complaints.
• Conduct community survey’s and analyze results; prepare written, illustrative, and statistical reports.
• Create visual justification including infographics, maps, and videos and other media for grant submissions.
• Prepare or review proclamations and other ceremonial documents for use in City or City-supported events; Represent the City in governmental, community and professional meetings;
• Participate in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the office.
• Develop and standardize procedures and methods to improve and continuously monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of assigned programs, service delivery methods, and procedures.
• Develop a system to maintain records and statistics related to communication programs and citizen engagement; maintain and archive press releases, photographs, videos, and other pertinent information.
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned.

Qualifications

• A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in journalism, communications, public relations, Marketing, Graphic Design, or a related field.
• Five years of increasingly responsible public relations, media communication, journalism experience.
• A combination of certifications offered by the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO) and FEMA/California Specialized Training Institute (CSTI) training will be required within the first twelve (12) months of employment.
• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Business Administration, Communications, Journalism, or related field.
• Bilingual Spanish Ability.