Public Information Officer

SALARY: $39.93 – $58.76, SALARIED (DOE&Q) EXEMPT
OPENING DATE: 01/22/2026
CLOSING DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED

JOB SUMMARY
The Public Information Officer serves as the primary liaison between the municipality and the public, ensuring clear, accurate, and timely communication of City programs, policies, services, and initiatives. This position develops and implements communication strategies to promote transparency, community engagement, and a positive public image of the City.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED :
Receives general supervision from the Marketing and Communications Director. Exercises supervision over lower-level office staff.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES - Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

Perform a wide variety of complex, responsible, and confidential duties under the direction of the Marketing and Communications Director.

Assist in the development, implementation, and management of comprehensive public information, media relations, and community outreach programs.

Assist in the preparation and distribution of press releases, media advisories, newsletters, social media posts, and other public communications.

Responds to inquiries from the media, residents, and other stakeholders in a timely and professional manner.

Serves as the official City spokesperson during emergencies, coordinating with public safety and emergency management personnel, when assigned.

Assist in maintaining and updating the City’s website and social media platforms with accurate and relevant information.

Drafts speeches, talking points, and key messages for elected officials and senior staff, when assigned.

Monitors public perception and media coverage, preparing reports and recommendations for the Marketing and Communications Director.

Assist the Communications and Marketing Director in the development of crisis communication plans and public messaging during incidents or emergencies.

Establish or maintain cooperative relationships with representatives of community, consumer, employee, or public interest groups.

Assist the Marketing and Communications Director with proactive media strategies and campaigns.

Coordinate with city departments to ensure accurate and unified messaging.
Attend City Council meetings and major public events to gather and disseminate information.

Ensure compliance with public records, transparency, and disclosure laws (e.g., Texas Public Information Act).

Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong media relations, public speaking, and presentation skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Skill in managing digital communications, including websites, social media, and multimedia content.
• Ability to plan and execute public information campaigns and events.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, campaigns, and projects concurrently.
• Ability to respond to emergencies, immediate public communications needs, or crises.
• Proficiency with office and design software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, social media management tools, etc.)
• Knowledge of public sector, local government operations, and public information laws (e.g., Texas Public Information Act.)

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Standard office environment; frequent use of computers, phones, and other office equipment.
• Some local travel may be required for events, site visits, or meetings.
• Occasional after-hours work, weekend events, or emergency communications needs.
• Moderate physical activity (e.g. standing, walking, lifting materials up to 20–30 lbs.) associated with events or public outreach.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, Public Administration, or a closely related field.

Experience :

• Demonstrated experience serving as a spokesperson or media representative.
• Experience managing media inquiries and organizing press conferences.
• Experience delivering clear, concise, and accurate public statements during press briefings, community meetings, or emergency situations.

Training:

• 2-5 years of progressively responsible experience in public relations, journalism, marketing, or communications.
• Experience in public sector communications preferred.

Licensure or Certification :

Must possess or be able to obtain by the time of hire, a valid Class “C” Texas driver’s license.

Public Information Officer- City Manager – Posting #26-002R.

CITY OF PORT ARTHUR
Attn: Hiring Manager
P.O. Box 1089
Port Arthur, Texas 77641-1089
(EEO/AA/V/F/RC/H)
The City of Port Arthur is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer