Public Information Officer – Region 1

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

8d•$7,179 - $10,569•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Communications Section in Portland is seeking a Public Information Officer. This role supports and plans internal and external communication efforts, provides public affairs guidance to management, oversees public affairs programs, and acts as the agency spokesperson to the public and as the primary strategic communications liaison to state, federal, and local agencies in Region 1 (Portland metro and Hood River). ODOT aims to provide a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and helps Oregon's communities and economy thrive. They encourage applications from all backgrounds and abilities.

Requirements

Eight years of experience directly related to the position under recruitment. Five of the eight years must have been at the professional level.
OR A bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, public relations, marketing, journalism, behavioral science, social science, or related field AND five years of professional level experience in public relations or public affairs.
Driving is an essential function of this position.
Must have a valid U.S. driver license and an acceptable driving record.
Your submitted experience fields or attached resume must include dates (MM/YYYY) for each employer.

Nice To Haves

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.

Responsibilities

Act as an agency spokesperson to regional, statewide and national media.
Develop communications to achieve public affairs and agency goals and to promote awareness of agency programs internally and externally.
Work closely with agency staff, managers, graphic artists, photographers, videographers and the media.
Create and oversee the production of talking points, news releases, presentations, voiceovers, newsletters, fact sheets, social media posts and other forms of communication.
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 on agency programs and activities.
Assist in training and coaching staff on how to respond effectively to the media.