Assistant Public Information Officer

JOB CODE: 1867

PAY GRADE: 2240

SALARY RANGE: $47,595 - $80,659

LOCATION OF WORK
Public Information Office

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the executive direction of a department head, performs advanced level planning and conducting of public relations programs within the City-Parish. Work involves relieving a department head from a variety of administrative duties by assuming delegated authority in assigned areas. Work involves researching, developing, and disseminating information through the news media and educational programs through Metro 21 Governmental Channel. Work is performed with considerable independence and supervision may be exercised over subordinate employees assisting in public relations programs. Performs other work as requested.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Serves as Program Director for Metro 21 and Responsible for running Metro 21 – inputting, digitizing, and programming shows to the server, which air shows twenty-four seven (24/7). Assists Director as spokesperson and the Mayor's Office of Homeland Security during emergencies. Serves as office manager by coordinating and managing day-to-day activities of the department; supervises support staff; prepares and approves work schedules and leave requests. Serves as administrative liaison within the department, between other departments/divisions and the public; interprets departmental policies and procedures for staff, council members, and the general public. Gathers, writes, and edits material for news releases. Assists in arranging for news conferences and television coverage of special events such as dedications, groundbreakings, council shows, and community meetings involving the City-Parish government. Performs personally or arranges necessary photography for Council Meetings, Press Conferences, and off-site Community Events. Confers with City-Parish officials in planning public information programs and provides any other assistance necessary in the area of public information. Prepares departmental budget; prepares and signs budget supplements and transfers; provides fiscal control over expenditure requests; makes recommendations regarding management of budget affairs; attends budget hearings with Mayor-President and Metro Council. Uploads shows in Leightronix and transports them to Swagit to be archived. Contacts videographers for assigning and assisting in editing shows. Assists in approving all payments and payroll actions made by the Public Information Office through Munis.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of all various news media used to disseminate information about the Metropolitan Council and City-Parish Departments. Knowledge of journalistic principles and practices, the techniques of planning, composing, and editing publications such as press releases and material for Public Service Announcements on Metro 21. Ability to write and assemble interesting and informative news releases, scripts, and related materials. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, news media, department heads, and employees. Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing, to groups and to individuals. Ability to use a digital camera. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

NOTE:
The work examples described in this specification are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from job performance requirements if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the job.