PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER (POLICE) (UNCLASSIFIED)

City of Cincinnati; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Public Information Officer to enhance its visibility and communication strategies. This role involves developing public information plans, managing media relations, and serving as the department's spokesperson. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in journalism and public relations, with excellent communication skills and the ability to engage with diverse audiences. Join a dynamic team dedicated to serving the community and making a positive impact through effective communication and public engagement.

Benefits

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in public relations or journalism.
• Strong knowledge of public information strategies and media communication.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the Department’s communication plan and public presentations.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with stakeholders and manage media inquiries.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Media relations

Public speaking

Public information planning

Social media management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Communications

Master's Degree in related field

Tools

Desktop publishing software

Graphic design software

Office software

Job description

This employee exercises independent judgment and performs a variety of high-level tasks as the Public Information Officer in the Police Department, including assisting with the Department’s communication plan, enhancing the visibility and image of the Department, and developing and maintaining partnerships with key internal and external stakeholders. Works under the general supervision of the Public Information Office commander and requires considerable knowledge of journalism and public relations to supervise personnel involved in preparing and distributing informational and educational materials reflective of the department. Duties may also include making public presentations, coordinating public speaking events, and preparing emergency communication plans. The employee assists in communicating through the news media and may serve as the department's spokesperson. Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge of:
Professional journalism methods, practices, and procedures.
Public relations methods, practices, and procedures.
The Rules, Regulations, and Procedures of the City of Cincinnati and Police Department.
Principles and techniques of individual and mass communication, including public speaking and media interviews.
Development of general public information plans.
Techniques of preparing, producing, and disseminating information using all major media of communication.
Appropriate city, state, and federal laws, regulations, and procedures.
Legislative and administrative policies, procedures, and functions of municipal government.
Civil Service Rules, Human Resources Policies, and Procedures.
Correct English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Principles of composition and report writing.
Professional standards and ethics in media communication.
Community event planning.
Photography and video production techniques and tools.
Graphic design principles and familiarity with desktop publishing software.
Advanced functions and use of computers, including business/office work processing, graphic arts, desktop publishing, and spreadsheets.

Skill to:
Utilize verbal and written communication effectively for responses, correspondence, media releases, and newsletters.
Use computer software for publicity campaigns, publications, and newsletters.
Conduct media interviews and provide instructions to officials and employees on responding to media inquiries.
Develop public information and publicity plans.
Manage websites and social media communications.
Operate appropriate computer equipment and related hardware and software.
Operate assigned vehicles as required.

Ability to:
Develop targeted information dissemination strategies.
Process information with attention to detail and logical analysis.
Assess the impact and effectiveness of public information activities.
Research, analyze, and interpret information.
Maintain a professional media image.
Write, edit, and prepare news releases, articles, and correspondence.
Manage multiple projects and adjust priorities.
Develop graphic presentations and deliver speeches.
Establish effective relationships with officials, colleagues, and the public.
Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive inquiries.
Have a Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field; a Master's Degree is preferred.
Minimum of three years of experience in an agency setting.

Other Requirements
Excellent communication and team-building skills.
Knowledge of emerging communication trends and technologies.
Understanding of public administration and intergovernmental relations.
Experience in public speaking, media interviews, and presentation delivery.
Experience in designing public information materials.
Experience in government organizations is preferred.
Must pass a background check.

Environmental and Physical Conditions
Indoor and outdoor environments; exposure to computer screens and weather extremes; potential travel within the city. Duties may require physical conditioning for prolonged sitting and standing, light lifting, manual dexterity, and operation of a vehicle.