Public Information & Media Relations Leader

City of Sugar Land, TX; Paynes (TX); On-site; USD 87,000 - 101,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

City-subsidized Medical and Dental

TMRS pension plan

9 paid holidays

Job summary

The City of Sugar Land is seeking a full-time Public Information & Media Relations Officer in the Communication & Community Engagement Department. You will serve as the City’s primary spokesperson, develop proactive communications, and counsel leadership on media relations and crisis messaging.

Regular on-site presence is required, including during emergencies, with a strong focus on transparency and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Administration, Marketing, English from an accredited college or university.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public information, media relations, communications, journalism, public affairs, emergency communications, or related field.
• Experience working in local government is preferred.
• FEMA Basic Public Information Officer Certification (or ability to obtain within one year of hire).

Responsibilities

• Serve as the City's primary spokesperson and lead Public Information Officer for media relations and inquiries.
• Develop and execute proactive communications strategies, messaging plans, media outreach, and executive communications.
• Provide strategic communications counsel to executive leadership and subject matter experts on media relations and crisis communications.
• Build proactive media relationships by identifying and coordinating stories with City departments.
• Lead crisis and emergency communications, including coordination within the Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
• Write and oversee high-quality communications materials: news releases, speeches, talking points, website content, and notices.
• Prepare City leadership for media interviews, press conferences, and community meetings; nurture relationships with media and stakeholders.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment to identify issues and manage reputational risk.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communications

Executive communications

Community engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Administration, Marketing, English

Job description

The City of Sugar Land is seeking a full-time Public Information & Media Relations Officer in the Communication & Community Engagement Department. You will serve as the City’s primary spokesperson, develop proactive communications, and counsel leadership on media relations and crisis messaging.

Regular on-site presence is required, including during emergencies, with a strong focus on transparency and community engagement.