Public Information Coordinator

Position Posting #2026-10

Position Public Information Coordinator

Department Information Technology Department

Status Exempt

Reports To Information Technology Director

Shift Regular – 40 hours per week

Salary $33,396 - $55,000 annually (salary dependent on experience)

General Description Under the general supervision of the IT Director, the Public Information Coordinator serves as the City’s primary liaison to the public and media. The role is responsible for planning and coordinating assigned Citywide communications and outreach initiatives, including strategic messaging as directed by City Administration, public information, emergency communications, and digital content. The coordinator manages media relations, municipal meetings support, and communication platforms, and reviews outbound City communications to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance prior to release. Additional administrative, analytical, and departmental support duties are assigned as needed.

Performance Expectations Demonstrates respect and contributes to a positive work culture.
Maintains enthusiasm and accountability.
Demonstrates dedication and professionalism.
Exhibits solution‑oriented leadership by welcoming innovation and change.
Works collaboratively as part of a team.
Communicates effectively with staff, leadership, and the public.

Tasks and Responsibilities Interpret, apply, and ensure compliance with City, County, State, and Federal laws, policies, procedures, and directives.
Prioritize and manage multiple assignments effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
Analyze complex data, evaluate findings, and prepare clear, comprehensive reports and studies.
Communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally in both written and oral formats.
Analyze complex political, social, and community‑related issues and respond to community needs.
Deliver effective oral presentations and written communications.
Represent the City professionally in meetings with government agencies, boards, commissions, community groups, media, and the public to build consensus.
Build and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, executive leadership, staff, media representatives, and the general public under diverse circumstances.
Operate computer hardware and applicable software used in local government environments.
Write and edit reports, publications, and public communications on a wide range of subjects.
Exercise sound judgment, flexibility, creativity, and cultural sensitivity in dynamic and evolving situations.
Organize, prioritize, and complete multiple tasks and projects within established deadlines.
Establish and maintain positive, collaborative, and productive working relationships.
Work effectively with diverse, multicultural, and religious communities.

Knowledge, Experience, and Skills
Knowledge City, County, State, and Federal laws, statutes, regulations, ordinances, codes, administrative policies, and operational guidelines related to local government operations.
Principles and practices of public administration, journalism, and public relations, including media requirements and standards.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Public Records Request Act requirements.
Individual and group dynamics, including volunteers, community‑based organizations, and multicultural communities.
Modern office practices, procedures, and the use of computer equipment and software.
English language usage, including grammar, spelling, punctuation, and professional writing standards.
Research methods, data sources, information accessibility, and report preparation techniques.

Experience and Skills Equivalently to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in public administration, communications, or a closely related field.
One to three years of experience in public administration that preferably includes experience in the development and coordination of public affairs, public information, community outreach, and social media marketing, community relations and compliance processes; the development, administration and delivery of social‑oriented programs; and working with culturally and ethnically diverse groups.
A background of one to three years of experience working in municipal government, with an emphasis on communications, public relations, community outreach, or public information.

Working Environment Office environment with moderate noise level and exposure to constant interruptions. Work may be required outside of traditional hours. May be subject to phone calls and/or call‑back.

Physical Demands Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, and manipulating equipment, including speaking, reading, and typing. Requires frequent use of a computer keyboard and mouse. Requires near and far vision while reading documents. May require lifting up to 40 pounds, handling heavy, bulky supplies, materials, equipment or items weighing up to 40 pounds (with or without reasonable accommodation).

Work Schedule The regular work week is 8 hours a day, 5 days a week with one hour off for lunch. Additional time may be required after regular hours. Schedule to be established by supervisor.

Travel Requirements Limited travel‑ability to travel for meetings and training may be required.
Overnight travel may be required.

Pre‑Employment Requirements Must pass a background investigation including work history, criminal records, driving records and other records deemed necessary.

Conditions of Continued Employment Candidates must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and insurability in accordance with the City’s insurance carrier.

Deadline to Submit Required Application First review is Friday, May 22nd, 2026, and weekly thereafter. Applicants must submit required application to Human Resources at City Hall or online at www.portalesnm.gov .

Equal Opportunity and Drug‑Free Workplace Statement The City is an EOE and Drug Free Workplace.

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