Public Information Officer

ABOUT THE ROLE The Public Information Officer leads media relations across Portland’s integrated water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities. This role serves as a key media strategist, adviser, and liaison, crafting compelling stories about critical infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public works projects. The position contributes to public relations, marketing, community engagement, and serves on a city-wide team responding to city emergencies. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead media strategy and engagement by creating proactive plans and developing relationships with local and culturally specific media outlets. - Serve as the lead spokesperson, responding to media inquiries and developing responsive media strategies and messages. - Collaborate with Utilities leadership, Communications, Public Involvement, and Management teams to develop media plans and provide strategic advice. - Write, edit, and produce timely content including news stories, media guides, press releases, and talking points, centering plain language and accessibility. - Serve as a lead emergency communications planner and responder, implementing crisis communications using FEMA NIMS protocols. - Act as a communications consultant and coach for bureau leadership and subject matter experts, providing media training and guidance. - Collaborate on messaging and storytelling in partnership with the Public Works Service Area communications team. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Experience engaging with reporters, producers, editors, and media to share critical information and promote storytelling. - Experience developing and implementing media engagement strategies and emergency response or crisis communications plans for complex issues. - Experience serving as a lead spokesperson and coaching leadership, subject matter experts, and key staff on interview skills. - Experience writing, producing, and/or editing clear, concise, and engaging digital content, reports, and news releases for diverse audiences, translating complex technical information into plain language. - Ability to develop intentional and trusting relationships with culturally diverse and non-traditional media. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Preferred: Familiarity with emergency response and FEMA NIMS Public Information Officer standards and protocols. - Preferred: Knowledge of public health and environmental regulations, utility operations, or large infrastructure projects. - Preferred: Familiarity with AP Style or the Chicago Manual of Style. - Preferred: Bilingual or multilingual skills. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application Review (Week of August 31, 2026): Review of application materials to ensure minimum qualifications are met. 2. Notice/Feedback (Week of September 7, 2026): Email notification of review results. Candidates may request a review within 14 days of the notice. 3. Selection Process (Late September): Hiring bureau reviews qualified applications, conducts interviews, and checks references. 4. Conditional Job Offer: Final candidates may undergo a background or driving record check. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a resume and cover letter by the closing date. - Optional: Submit Veterans’ Preference documents (DD214-Member 4 and/or VA Benefit Letter) if applicable. - For questions or assistance, contact TroyLynn Craft, Senior Recruiter at troylynn.craft@portlandoregon.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Portland - Job Type: Regular, Full-time - Job Number: 2026-00762 - Bureau: City Operations Service Area - Location: Hybrid (Reports to Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97204). Remote work must be performed within Oregon or Washington. - Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Alternate schedules may be available). - Union Representation: Professional Technical Employees, Local 17 (PROTEC17). - Opening Date: 08/17/2026 - Closing Date: 8/31/2026 11:59 PM Pacific