Public Information Officer

JOB The City of Eustis is seeking a trustworthy, responsible individual who, under the direction of the Director of Events & Communication, develops and implements internal and external communication strategies and initiatives, performs administrative, technical, and professional work, providing information on the programs, services, and policies of the City. The employee exercises considerable independent judgment and initiative and must be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city staff, management, elected and appointed officials, media, other governmental organizations, civic groups, and the general public.

Examples of machines, tools, and equipment used - General office and computer equipment, a camera, and a drone.

Supervision received – Events & Communication Director EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

• Acts as the official spokesperson, organizing press conferences, responding to inquiries, and cultivating relationships with media outlets;
• Manages external communications, media relations, and public image for agencies, acting as the primary spokesperson;
• Provides strategic oversight and coordination of official City messaging across communication platforms;
• Manages information during emergencies, disasters, or critical incidents;
• Serves as the City's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Public Information Officer and must be available 24/7 during emergency incidents, disasters, and EOC activations;
• May be assigned to support the Fire Chief, Emergency Manager, Incident Commander, or other emergency management personnel by documenting operational activities, preparing situation reports, and coordinating emergency communications during incidents and EOC activations;
• May be assigned to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center as the City's communications liaison and representative during countywide emergencies;
• Advises management on communication strategies, media relations, crisis communications, and public sentiment;
• Represents the city, City Manager, and the City Commissioners at public meetings, workshops, and community events, primarily during the evening and on weekends;
• Collaborates with the Public Relations Coordinator and City departments to develop and implement marketing, public information, and communication programs that promote awareness of City goals, services, initiatives, and activities;
• Collaborates closely with the Public Relations Coordinator to ensure consistent messaging, branding, and communication strategies across City platforms;
• Provides backup support for the Public Relations Coordinator and assists with communications, public engagement, digital content, website management, social media, and other communication functions as needed to ensure continuity of operations;
• Develops official communication materials, news releases, public service announcements utilizing a variety of communication platforms, including newsletters, brochures, fact sheets, consumer publications, radio and television public service announcements, reports, videos, and the City’s website;
• Serves as the City's primary media contact and is responsible for coordinating media relations, preparing and distributing official news releases, public service announcements, and other official communications;
• Prepares a variety of written correspondence, Commission proclamations and resolutions, reports, and other written materials;
• Provides oversight and coordination of official City website content to ensure accuracy, consistency, accessibility, and timely dissemination of public information;
• Provides communication counsel and strategic messaging support to the City Manager, City Commission, and department leadership regarding City initiatives, policies, projects, and community issues;
• Assesses the City’s communication needs and evaluates the effectiveness of communication programs;
• Assists in coordinating and publicizing special events and activities;
• Acts as city-wide coordinator to Police, Fire, and other departments for media relations and public involvement, and participates in developing effective communication strategies for key issues;
• Coordinates emergency public information processes and procedures;
• Attends and presents information and programs at meetings and serves as the City’s liaison to various business and civic organizations, as well as community and neighborhood groups;
• Coordinates audiovisual operations, livestreaming, and communication support for Commission meetings and other public meetings;
• Responds to general public inquiries and complaints and works to resolve related issues;
• Develops, initiates, and manages various special projects and assignments, as directed by the Events & Communication Director;
• Performs other related duties as required.

Other job functions

• Assists the City in the preparation for and aftermath of a major emergency such as a hurricane or other storm or disaster, as needed.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Physical Demands
This is primarily sedentary work with some periods of moderate physical effort. Requires sitting for long periods of time; walking short distances; bending and reaching; good finger/hand dexterity and hand/eye coordination; good eyesight, hearing, and speech; occasional lifting up to 35 pounds and occasional carrying/pushing/pulling up to 35 pounds. During emergency incidents and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activations may be required to remain on-site for extended periods, including overnight assignments, in support of emergency response and public information operations.

Salary Information

$67,206.11 - $101,036.19 annually; EXCELLENT benefits (Note: See Benefits Tab for more information). Only applicants with the most job-related qualifications will be selected for interview and further consideration. Additional consideration may be given to applicants with more extensive education, training, or experience. Following a thorough background investigation, including a criminal history and driver’s license check, the candidate will be given a conditional offer of employment.

The City’s application is required. The online application is the preferred method, but printed applications are also available in person at 109-A East Orange Ave, Eustis. Office hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. For assistance or more information, please visit Human Resources at www.eustis.org or call 352-483-5472. Under Florida Law, all application materials are public record and subject to public scrutiny.