Public Information Officer

$77,600 - $94,475/Yr

City of Houston - Houston, TX

Full-time - Mid Level

Houston, TX

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Public Information Officer (PIO) serves as the primary communications strategist for the Houston Health Department, responsible for developing, implementing, and managing communication efforts to inform, educate, and engage the public on health-related topics, programs, and initiatives. This role is critical in crisis communications, media relations, and public outreach to promote community health and safety.

Responsibilities

• Assist with media inquiries and draft press releases, statements, and media advisories.
• Coordinate press conferences and media briefings.
• Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Translate content and messaging into Spanish.
• Develop and execute communication strategies to raise awareness about public health programs in underserved communities.
• Create and manage content for various platforms, including social media, websites, and newsletters.
• Ensure health information is accurate, accessible, and culturally sensitive, with an emphasis on the Spanish-speaking community.
• Support internal communication initiatives to ensure staff alignment with departmental goals.
• Provide communication training for department staff as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Public Relations, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
• Five years of progressive professional experience in media, public relations, or a closely related field.

Nice-to-haves

• Certification in English/Spanish translations.
• Certification in Public Information or Crisis Communication (e.g., FEMA PIO training) is a plus.
• A Master's degree is preferred.

Benefits

• Full-time position with a salary range of $77,600.12 - $94,475.16 per year.