POLICE DEPARTMENT- Public Relations Specialist (Public Safety) Job at City of Lu

Position: Public Relations Specialist (Public Safety)

Department: Police

Reports To: Chief of Police

FLSA Status: Exempt

Pay: $50-55,000 annually depending on education and experience

DESCRIPTION

The Public Relations Specialist will be responsible for managing the public image of the police and fire departments, handling media relations, and processing open records requests. This position will play a crucial role in promoting transparency, fostering community relations, and ensuring compliance with public information laws.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Media Relations, Public Safety or a related field preferred or two (2) years of equivalent work experience.

· Must possess a valid Driver's License (Class C) at time of placement.

· Must be able to pass a thorough background investigation and pass a subsequent polygraph examination.

· Must be able to pass CJIS requirements, training and testing within required time limit.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

· Knowledge of local government operations, policies, and procedures, and familiarity with municipal governance, public administration, and regulatory issues.

· Knowledge of local, state, and federal open records laws and regulations.

· Excellent communications skills, both verbal and written.

· Skilled in social media management and content creation.

· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

· Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with media representatives, community members, and internal stakeholders.

· Ability to work under pressure and handle sensitive information with discretion.

MAJOR DUTIES

· Develop and implement public relations strategies to enhance the department's public image.

· Process and respond to open records requests in compliance with local, state, and federal laws.

· Act as the primary liaison between public safety and the media, responding to inquiries and coordinating press releases.

· Prepare and distribute press releases, media statements, and other public communications.

· Manage the department's social media accounts, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination of information.

· Plan and coordinate public events, press conferences, and community outreach activities.

· Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, providing reports and recommendations to department leadership.

· Collaborate with other city departments to ensure a cohesive communication strategy.

· Assist in crisis communication planning and response.

· Available for call-out during times of inclement weather, natural disasters, civil unrest, and any other incident listed in the callout policy.

This position is an essential service position and will require providing services during emergency situations.

Visit our website www.cityoflufkin.com or contact the Human Resources Department at Lufkin City Hall, 300 E. Shepherd Ave., Suite 226, Lufkin, TX 75901, Phone 936-633-0228.