Public Information Officer

ABOUT THE ROLE Under the general direction of the Communications Director, the Public Information Officer serves as the City's primary media relations professional and public-facing spokesperson. This role emphasizes public safety media relations, working in close partnership with Longmont Police and Fire Departments to ensure timely, accurate, and transparent communication during critical incidents, breaking news, and routine matters. The PIO produces press releases, talking points, and digital content to advance the City's narrative and strengthen community trust. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as the primary communications liaison embedded with Longmont Public Safety. - Respond to breaking news and critical incidents by deploying to the scene or coordinating remotely (on-call 24/7). - Handle daily media inquiry requests and support proactive digital communications strategies. - Serve as City spokesperson for media contacts, conduct interviews, and write press releases. - Monitor local and regional news coverage and track public sentiment. - Develop proactive communication efforts targeting diverse populations, including monolingual Spanish-speaking residents. - Manage and monitor content on the City's news web pages and social media platforms. - Attend City Council meetings, assist with post-meeting communications, and serve as photographer for ceremonial events. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience). - At least five years of increasingly responsible experience in communications and/or public relations. - Demonstrated experience in media relations. - Municipal or public safety communications experience is strongly preferred. - Ability to work a non-traditional schedule, including frequent evening and weekend hours. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must complete public safety public information and Incident Command System (ICS) training within the first year of employment (e.g., FEMA IS/G-290 series, NIMS, CDC CERC, FBI-LEEDA) if not held at hire. - Bilingual English/Spanish advanced proficiency is strongly preferred. - Unescorted Security Clearance is required. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Complete job description review 2. Personal interview 3. Investigation 4. Criminal background check 5. Substance screening HOW TO APPLY - Apply online at www.longmontcolorado.gov/jobs. - The deadline is 11:59 P.M. on July 23, 2026. - Resumes are accepted in lieu of the full City Application but must be submitted via the official City application site. - For more information, call (303) 651-8609. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Shared Services, Division: Communications - Schedule: Regular Full-time, Monday-Friday, with on-call duties for evenings and weekends. - Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flex Spending, Defined Benefit Pension Plan, 401(a) Money Purchase Plan, Life & Survivor, Term Life & AD&D, Long Term Disability, Bereavement, Jury & Witness Duty, FMLA, Military Leave, Parental and Caregiver Leave, Sick, Vacation at start of employment, Holiday pay, EAP, Tuition Assistance, and optional voluntary benefits. - Work Environment: Standard office, public safety scenes, field, and City facilities. Occasional light lifting up to 15 pounds. Requires ability to perform under time constraints and deal with frequent interruptions. - The City of Longmont is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains smoke-free facilities.