Public Information Officer

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The work involves responsibility for serving as the public spokesperson for various governmental
agencies or large municipal departments in political subdivisions of government through the
communication of the entity's philosophy, goals, programs, and objectives by the release of
information via press releases, media information meetings/events. The employee not only acts
as spokesperson but may be required to research and write materials for release. The job
activities are dependent upon the agency/department where employed. Emphasis lies in the
preparation of newsletters, websites, advertisements and printed material which will be effective
in both promoting, publicizing and clarifying the agency's function. An incumbent evaluates or
assists in the evaluation of information materials and projects to determine effectiveness and
clarity of same and whether these materials meet the informational needs of the public. Does
related work as required.

• Designs and implements public information program;
• Coordinates and maintains direct contact with elected officials regarding the agency's activities.
• Researches and writes news releases, brochures, newsletters and narrative reports describing the agency's activities and objectives.
• Collects, assembles and compiles information on departmental activities.
• Assists assigned governmental units in planning special publicity programs.
• Compiles and maintains mailing lists for distribution of agency or department activities.
• Prepares exhibits and other public displays for presentations.
• Assists officials and staff in editing articles, speeches, and correspondence.
• Develops specifications, issues bids, evaluates proposals, negotiates and initiates contracts, and performs contract and project oversight of public relations services under contract to the agency or department.

• Thorough knowledge of all media used in public relations, their characteristics and applicability.
• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of effective written communications.
• Good knowledge of proper English usage, spelling and punctuation.
• Working knowledge of the organization, the agency or program objectives, and its operations as they relate to activities of this position.
• Skill in writing various forms of informational material.
• Ability to speak to various groups.
• Ability to prepare and deliver news and feature material.
• Ability to plan and prepare exhibits.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Tact, initiative, resourcefulness, imagination and good judgment.
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered College or University with baccalaureate degree and two (2) years of professional level work experience, or its part-time equivalent, in public relations, marketing or communications; or,

B. Six (6) years of paraprofessional or professional level work experience, or its part-time equivalent, two (2) years of which must have been professional level work experience in public relations, marketing or communications; or,

C. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).