Public Information Officer City of Marietta, GA

The City of Marietta/BLW is an Equal Opportunity Employer

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

JOB NUMBER: 13-20
DEPARTMENT: CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE

Hiring Range: $62,899 to $75,854 annually DOQ + a generous benefits package (see below)

An online application is available at the City of Marietta/BLW's website at www.mariettaga.gov .

DESCRIPTION:

This position serves as a central source of information about the city and as an official channel of communication between the city and its public. Under the direction of the City Manager, this position provides City/BLW communications to the public through various publications, media and media sources. In addition, the position proactively provides appropriate and accurate information through well-planned releases, electronic communications, and media events regarding activities and events within the City of Marietta and BLW.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Serves as communications advisor to city manager, city council and department heads, providing technical support in all forms of communication, and in making decisions in the area of public relations.
2. Supervises the Public Information Technician.
3. Researches and develops electronic and printed publications, press releases, photographic materials, promotional materials and other forms of communication to increase community awareness of city activities, services and programs.
4. Manages electronic communications, such as social media and content for the city web site.
5. Serves as primary point of contact for external agencies and media.
6. Coordinates media relations and responds to inquiries.
7. Represents city at civic events and organizations and acts as spokesperson when appropriate.
8. Provides information to citizens, agencies, other governments, etc.
9. Serves as liaison with other agencies, e.g. Chamber of Commerce, Welcome Center, city schools, etc., as assigned.
10. Responsible for the coordination of all city advertising.
11. Serves as backup support for City Manager’s office.
12. Coordinates official dinners, town meetings, public hearings and other public relations functions.
13. Conducts tours for visitors and potential high-ranking employees.
14. Prepares and submits an annual plan and recommended budget for public relations and city publications.
15. Coordinates all audio-visual activities undertaken by the city.
16. Attends staff meetings, council meetings and community meetings as directed by the City Manager to effectively carry out the responsibilities of the job.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, English, or closely related field and four years related experience in a similar position, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge, skill and application of correct grammar, punctuation, word usage, and sentence structure. Knowledge and skill in the principals, practices and techniques of effective verbal, written, and audio-visual communications. Skill in making presentations to groups.
• Skill in adapting information and writing for a variety of audiences and media, including writing and editing news releases, feature stories, articles, scripts, and speeches.
• Knowledge, skill and application of social media outlets.
• Ability to use discretion and good judgment in handling politically sensitive information and issues.
• Ability to recognize and develop public information opportunities.
• Ability to handle or manage multiple projects or programs simultaneously.
• Ability to remain calm in crisis or high-pressure situations.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive relations with public officials, the media, and the general public.
• Ability to learn and explain the functions and organizations of the city and BLW operations.
• Ability to analyze city-wide and department policies, programs and operations for accurate presentation to the general public.
• Skill in establishing priorities and in setting and meeting deadlines.
• Valid Georgia driver’s license and satisfactory seven-year driving history to include no DUI’s in the last five years.
• Drug screen and criminal background check at time of hire required.

REQUIREMENTS:
VALID GEORGIA DRIVER’S LICENSE AND A SATISFACTORY SEVEN-YEAR DRIVING HISTORY, TO INCLUDE NO DUI’S IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS.
DRUG SCREEN.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK.

Verification of identity and United States work authorization must be completed before employment commences as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act.

The City of Marietta/BLW offers a very generous benefits package including no social security deduction, free life insurance, a free health clinic for employees and their covered dependents, excellent health insurance including medical, dental, vision and drug coverage, two pension plans, two 457 deferred compensation plans and much more. Apply online and view the entire benefits package at www.mariettaga.gov

CLOSING DATE: MARCH 18, 2013

HOW TO APPLY

Complete an online application at the City of Marietta/Board of Lights and Water website at www.mariettaga.gov before the closing date of March 18, 2013. Applications and resumes may also be emailed to apply@mariettaga.gov. A completed application is appreciated.