PUBLIC INFORMATION SPECIALIST

Exam Number

C1608B

Filing Period

Monday, July 6, 2026 8:00 a.m. PT to Wednesday, July 15, 2026 5:00 p.m. PT. All applications must be received before 5:00 p.m. PT on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

Type of Recruitment

We welcome applications from anyone.

Job Summary

Public Information Specialist: responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing public information and engagement programs; creating publications and digital media content; maintaining media relations; representing the department to external parties; and supervising staff. The role requires specialized knowledge in public information and the ability to perform tasks that cannot be delegated.

Responsibilities

Develop publications by researching and synthesizing information; preparing and editing documents.

Develop digital media content by researching and reviewing new and emerging media.

Coordinate digital media content by maintaining contact lists for various media outlets.

Develop public information and engagement programs by coordinating public information–related special projects, research, events, and programs.

Maintain regular contact with media representatives and outlets by responding to public information inquiries, general complaints, and recommendations from media and the public relative to departmental programs and activities.

Represent the department by establishing and maintaining relationships with communication staff at other public and private agencies, community partners and groups, departmental managers, and media outlets.

Perform specialized work by completing tasks that cannot be delegated to subordinate staff members in accordance with departmental policy and/or practices.

Supervise assigned employees by providing guidance and direction.

Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Journalism, Public Administration, Public Relations, English, or a closely related field. Three years of experience at the level of Los Angeles County’s class of Public Information Associate, or three years of professional experience as a journalist within a media organization. One additional year of the required experience will be accepted for each year of college.

License and Physical Requirements
A valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to use an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job‑related essential functions. Physical Class 2 - Light: includes light administrative and clerical work with occasional light lifting up to 10 pounds and occasional bending, stooping, or squatting.

Special Requirement Information
To receive credit for education, submit a legible copy of all relevant official documents, including diploma, transcript, or letter/certificate from an accredited institution, within five days of the end of the filing period. Documents must be in English or translated. International degrees must be evaluated for equivalency to U.S. standards if not listed in the International Handbook of Universities or World Higher Education Database.

Examination Content
Part I
Multiple choice and/or simulation assessment(s), weighted at 65%, assessing:

Management Potential

Working to High-Quality Standards

Responsibility

Achievement

Willingness to Learn

Accepting Others

Showing Courtesy

Working Relationships

Analyzing Information

Learning Quickly

Compliance With Rules and Regulations

Adapting to Change

Controlling Emotions

Working Energetically

Deductive Reasoning

Reading Comprehension

Part II
An Evaluation of Training and Experience, weighted at 35%, assessing competencies gained in the following areas:

Experience performing public information and engagement program responsibilities

Experience delivering presentations

Experience with online public information and communication software applications

Experience preparing public information and engagement program documents

Applicants must meet the requirements and achieve 70% or higher on the combined score of Part I and Part II to be placed on the eligible list.

Testing Accommodations
Requests for accommodations can be made when completing the application. Documentation from a qualified provider may be required to support the accommodation.

Transfer of Test Components
Responses to identical components taken for other exams may be automatically transferred to this examination. These components may also be transferred to future exams.

Eligibility and Vacancy Information
Applicants who pass the assessment are placed on an eligibility list for a period of 12 months. The list will be used to fill vacancies in Public Works as they occur.

Application and Filing Information
Applications are accepted online only. Please complete the application in full and provide relevant job experience with employer name, address, job title, dates, hours worked, and a description of work performed. Falsification of information may result in refusal of application or rescission of appointment.

Contact Information
Department Contact Name: Jaro Woods
Department Contact Phone: (626) 458-2141
Department Contact Email: PWExams@pw.lacounty.gov
ADA Coordinator Phone: (626) 458-2141
Teletype Phone: (626) 282-7829
California Relay Services: (800) 735-2922

Additional Information
For more details about benefits, visit https://hr.lacounty.gov/benefits/. To browse other hiring information, visit https://hr.lacounty.gov/.

Anti-Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion (ARDI)
The County of Los Angeles recognizes and affirms that all people are created equal and are entitled to all rights afforded by the Constitution of the United States. We are committed to promoting anti‑racism, diversity, and inclusion efforts to address inequalities and disparities among race.

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