Police Public Information Specialist

Incumbents support the Public Information Officer (PIO) Sergeant in disseminating information to the general public and employees. Assists in improving police-community relations through engagement with internal and external stakeholders and will perform a variety of supportive duties that serve to enhance the Surprise Police Department’s relationship with the community. This is accomplished by assisting the police-related marketing and outreach programs, managing, and monitoring the Surprise Police Department's social media channels under the direction of the PIO;

supporting the development and implementation of public safety programs. Other duties include assisting with graphic design materials development, writing press releases, responding to media inquiries, and other duties as assigned.

Associate degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement, Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or closely related field, and two (2) years of experience in law enforcement, social media, graphic design, and/or digital marketing experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as listed in the job description. Additional education cannot be substituted for experience.

Public contact experience in governmental/community relations and/or in a law enforcement/public safety environment is preferred.

Must have at the time of hire and be able to maintain a valid Arizona Driver License.

Must have or be able to attain Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) Terminal Operator Certification (TOC), Level B, within six months of hire.

Applicants whose education, training and experience most closely meet the needs of the position may be invited to participate in a selection process to include panel interviews.

Successful candidates will receive a post-offer, pre-employment background screening to include:

• Fingerprinting
• Criminal Background screening
• Education & Experience Verification
• Drug Screen
• Polygraph Evaluation
• E-Verify
• 39 Month Motor Vehicle Department Records Check

The City of Surprise is an EEO/ADA reasonable accommodation employer