PIO-Media Relations - DPW-Communications

Overview

Position is responsible for department-wide media relations and serves as the subject matter expert on the communications team for all operations and fleet division activities.

Position Responsibilities

Oversees media relations and public information for the department.

Serves as the secondary point of contact on all media inquiries.

Prepares and edits press releases/media advisories, arranges news conferences, and assists with coordinating interaction between the media and the departments.

Assists with on-camera interviews.

Maintains media database and/or fax list.

Serves as the subject matter expert (SME) for operations and fleet division matters for the department. Operations division matters could include street maintenance, traffic, severe weather preparedness, etc.

Position collaborates with external partners, such as Indianapolis Power and Light (IPL), Business and Neighborhood Services (BNS) on neighborhood clean-ups, etc., as necessary.

Advises director and staff on current media events and issues as related to primary duties.

Writes, edits, and produces brochures, catalogs, newsletters, and specialized publications as related to primary duties.

Assists with event planning and speechwriting for director as related to primary duties.

Works with the Mayor’s Office and other city/county departments on joint projects and issues.

Each Department of Public Works (DPW) Public Information Officer (PIO) can expect to rotate through an on-call period for a week at a time (Monday to Monday) during snow/pothole seasons. During the on-call time this team member will take the lead on updating/sending a standard news releases regarding snow fight plans and/or pothole numbers. Additionally, they must coordinate with staff, respond to media inquiries, and provide interviews regarding snow/pothole operations.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities that management may deem necessary from time to time.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, Government or related field and three (3) years of related work experience. One (1) year of related work experience may be substituted for each year of required education. Effective communications, research/analytical, and computer skills are required. Excellent writing skills and verbal communications skills absolutely required. Knowledge of desktop publishing software preferred. Ability to coordinate several projects and work with deadlines.

Working Conditions

Work is conducted in a standard office environment with periodic travel to different meeting sites and department field offices. After hours and weekend work and meetings is common.