Public Information Officer; Port Arthur, TX

Overview

SALARY: $39.93 – $58.76, SALARIED (DOE&Q) EXEMPT

OPENING DATE: 01/22/2026

CLOSING DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED

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.

Receives general supervision from the Marketing and Communications Director. Exercises supervision over lower-level office staff.

• 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.
• Respond to inquiries from the media, residents, and other stakeholders in a timely and professional manner.
• Serve 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.
• Draft speeches, talking points, and key messages for elected officials and senior staff, when assigned.
• Monitor 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.

• 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).

• 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.

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:

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

• 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.

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

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

The City of Port Arthur is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. (EEO/AA/V/F/RC/H)

This refined description excludes extraneous application form details and other non-essential boilerplate. It preserves core responsibilities, qualifications, and legal statements while presenting information in well-structured sections.