Job Description

Civilian Public Information Officer

Civilian Public Information Officer Position available within The City of Cleveland, Division of Police. In collaboration with the Cleveland Division of Police Public Information Officer-Sergeant, the Public Information Officer-Civilian, will be responsible for developing media strategies that promote a positive public image, organizing interviews between the press and the Chief or designee, promoting cooperation between media outlets to ensure an accurate flow of information in a timely fashion and assisting in managing and alleviating any public relations crises which may occur.

The ideal public information officer should have superior communication skills, both written and verbal. Top candidates will also understand the importance of being creative and proficient in various social media platforms. This position will coordinate with internal and external partners, including outside agencies using a variety of strategic and administrative activities to support police operations.Under administrative direction, is responsible for planning, managing, developing work rules, training, coordinating, and administering all activities and personnel of such staff positions as administration, citizen participation, research, and finance, and manages such personnel as are assigned to specific functions in the performance of the necessary duties. Performs other job-related duties as required.A High School Diploma or GED is required. A Bachelor's Degree is required. Four years of full time paid management or administrative experience is required. (Substitution: Two years of experience may substitute for each year of college education lacking. A valid State of Ohio Driver's License is required.Responsibilities of the Public Relations Specialist:

* In collaboration with the Public Safety Public Relations Specialist, develop a proactive media strategy to highlight the Division of Police.

* Ensure execution of proper communications chain on critical and high profile incidents and events.

* Review media releases in collaboration with uniformed Division Public Information Officer to ensure accuracy, tone, and appropriate messaging to ensure all communications are consistent, cohesive and well considered prior to release.

* Stay abreast of current events in a fast paced environment through communications with Division of Police Command Staff and monitoring media outlets.

* Stay abreast of local, state and national events to identify issues that may impact the city of Cleveland and immediate surrounding areas.

* Develop, organize and execute seasonal and otherwise necessary public safety announcements and events.

* Draft press releases, pitches, case studies, white papers and media summaries.

* Build and maintain relationships with existing and new media contacts.

* Develop and maintain a consistent and dynamic social media public relations presence and ongoing campaign.

* Manage media requests in a timely and professional manner.

* Develop and pitch ideas to the Chief of Police, Public Safety Public Relations Specialist, and Chief of Communications.

* Track and analyze media coverage to develop informed responses.

* Organize, schedule, and prepare key leaders and other staff for press interviews, including but not limited to:

* Preparing talking points

* Preparing anticipated questions

* Reviewing key messages with subject matter expert

* Assisting with media training when necessary

* All other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Chief of Police and Public Safety Public Relations Specialist.

* Work with various City teams to organize and host events or promotions.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Associate Degree in Criminal Justice, public relations, journalism, or related field. Bachelor's degree preferred.

* Experience with Social Media platforms and the ability to engage the citizens of Cleveland.

* Ability to thrive in a project-based, team environment.

* Prior experience in a public relations role and developing media and marketing strategies.

* Exceptional public speaking skills

* Exceptional written and verbal communication.

* Organized and detail-oriented work ethic.

* Flexibility to work at various city of City of Cleveland locations and travel on short notice.

* Physical abilities to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

* Prior experience in law enforcement setting (preferred).

Working Conditions

Applicants for this position must pass a Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility. Due to CJIS requirements related to system access, the following will result in being disqualified for this position: Felony Convictions, Felony Deferred Adjudication, Class A Misdemeanor Conviction, Class B Misdemeanor Convictions in the last 10 years, Class A Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication, Class B Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication in the last 10 years, an Open Arrest for Any Criminal Offense (Felony or Misdemeanor), and ALL Family Violence Convictions regardless of class. Final candidates selected for hire in the Police Department may be subject to a criminal background, drug screen, psychological exam and fingerprint check.

Benefits for this position include: Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off, Pension Plan, and Professional Development Opportunities.

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