Public Information Officer – Region 1

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Transportation Communications Section is seeking a Public Information Officer for Region 1, covering the Portland metro area and Hood River. The role supports and plans internal and external communications, provides public affairs guidance to management, oversees public affairs programs, serves as an agency spokesperson, and acts as the primary strategic communications liaison to state, federal, and local agencies in the region. The position works with agency staff, managers, creative professionals, and media representatives to develop and deliver communications that advance agency goals and promote awareness of programs. It is based primarily in an office environment, with hybrid work options. The role may require evening or early-morning work, travel, and work in inclement weather. Driving is an essential function, and a valid U.S. driver license and acceptable driving record are required.

Requirements

Eight years of experience directly related to the position, with at least five years at the professional level; OR a bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, public relations, marketing, journalism, behavioral science, social science, or a related field, and five years of professional-level experience in public relations or public affairs.
Valid U.S. driver license and acceptable driving record.
Effective verbal and written communications, including storytelling.
Knowledge of how news media works.
Demonstrated ability to use a variety of communications tools.
Knowledge of strategic communications and effective communications planning.
Knowledge of principles of public relations.

Nice To Haves

The listed desired attributes are used to select candidates to move forward; applicants do not need to have all of them to be eligible.

Responsibilities

Serve as an agency spokesperson to regional, statewide, and national media.
Develop communications that advance public affairs and agency goals and promote awareness of agency programs internally and externally.
Work with agency staff, managers, graphic artists, photographers, videographers, and media representatives.
Create and oversee production of talking points, news releases, presentations, voiceovers, newsletters, fact sheets, social media posts, and other communications.
Develop, implement, and lead strategic communications and public affairs plans and programs.
Advise and guide agency managers and staff.
Develop and maintain working relationships with reporters, interested parties, and others to educate and inform them about agency programs and activities.
Assist in training and coaching staff to respond effectively to the media.