PUBLIC INFORMATION COORDINATOR

State of Arkansas; North Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 57,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Arkansas is seeking a Public Information Coordinator to assist in developing and disseminating communication materials. You will write press releases, manage media inquiries, and support public events to ensure consistent and accurate agency messaging across channels.

You will work with senior staff to implement communication strategies, handle multiple tasks, and collaborate with internal teams while upholding state policies and legal guidelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field preferred.
• Two years of experience in public relations, communications, or related areas.
• Exceptional writing and editing abilities with clear, concise messaging.
• Experience coordinating with journalists and managing media inquiries.

Responsibilities

• Write, edit, and distribute press releases, newsletters, and other media communications.
• Coordinate media inquiries and facilitate interviews between media and agency staff.
• Manage the agency’s social media accounts and ensure timely updates.
• Organize and execute public outreach events, including press conferences and town halls.
• Monitor media coverage and report on public sentiment and media mentions.
• Prepare talking points, speeches, and other materials for senior leadership.
• Ensure materials align with state policies and legal guidelines.

Skills

Writing

Editing

Media relations

Social media

Organization

Teamwork

Crisis comms

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications/public relations

Job description

Position Number: 22179860
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: [[postingEndDate]]
Anticipated Starting Salary: 57351
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The Department of Public Safety's mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state's premier public safety agency.

Position Information

Job Series: Public Relations - Career-path

Classification: Public Information Coordinator

Class Code: CPR05P

Pay Grade: SGS07

Salary Range: $57,351 - $84,879

Job Summary

The Public Information Coordinator is responsible for assisting in the development and dissemination of communication materials. This position involves writing press releases, managing media inquiries, organizing public events, and ensuring that the agency’s messaging is clear, accurate, and consistent across all communication channels. The Public Information Coordinator works closely with senior staff to support the implementation of communication strategies.

Primary Responsibilities

Write, edit, and distribute press releases, newsletters, and other media communications. Coordinate media inquiries and facilitate interviews between the media and appropriate agency staff. Manage the agency’s social media accounts, ensuring timely and relevant updates. Assist in the organization and execution of public outreach events, including press conferences, town halls, and community forums. Monitor media coverage and report on public sentiment and media mentions. Assist in preparing talking points, speeches, and other communication materials for senior leadership. Ensure that all public information materials are aligned with state policies and legal guidelines.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to create clear and concise messaging for diverse audiences. Knowledge of media relations practices and experience working with journalists. Familiarity with social media platforms and web-based communication tools. Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders. Basic understanding of crisis communication and public information management. Experience in writing and editing press materials or content for public dissemination.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor's degree with a major in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field preferred. Two years of experience in public relations, communications, or related areas.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/AOTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.