Public Information Officer II

The Department of Corrections is seeking a visionary and dynamic individual to fill its Public Information Officer position. If you are looking to expand your communications career in an interesting, challenging and fast-paced environment, Corrections may be the right fit for you. In the Utah Department of Corrections, we put our people first, and we’re looking for a PIO who can balance traditional media relations and also bolster our internal communications strategy.

Principle Duties
As the PIO, you will be a spokesperson for the agency and will have significant, high profile, media and community involvement. The PIO duties are as follows:
Ensures publications and information released to the media and public are accurate and consistent with agency objectives.
Assists in implementing the master communications plan, public, social media and traditional media relations plans for the Utah Department of Corrections.
This job requires a thorough knowledge of agency mission, goals, objectives or programs(s) in order to explain agency policies and programs that enhance the understanding, perception, and image of the agency.
Researches and answers inquiries, complaints and resolves public information issues.
Interact with public, media, offender family members, political entities, and/or governmental organizations.
May serve on boards, councils, committees, or task forces.
Represent agency at formal and informal meetings and public hearings.
Coordinate services and serve as a liaison among differing groups and interests.
Communicates with news and other media, and responds to media questions in an appropriate public relations manner.
Furnishes the public with information on the objectives and activities of a state agency.
Prepares and coordinates issuance of public statements to the media and the general public.
Provides consultation, makes recommendations, gives appropriate advice, and facilitates decisions.
Acts as a resource to provide information or determine the most effective way of meeting the needs of management, staff, clients or customers.
Writes or drafts correspondence, reports, documents and other written materials.
Edits written material for accuracy, format, and arrangement of material.
Collects data and reviews research materials. Determines accuracy and validity of sources and appropriateness for use.

Ideal Candidate
The model candidate for this position is someone who has:
Experience in working with and responding to media inquiries and requests.
Extensive experience in communications, social media platforms, marketing, and/or public relations.
Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
Excellent writing and editing skills.
Experience with updating web content and creating multi-media communications materials.
The ability to work well with a variety of people and organizations.

Preference
Preference may be given for the following:
Bachelor’s Degree or higher in journalism, communications, marketing or a closely related field.
General knowledge of Utah’s political environment and the Utah Department of Corrections.

Why You Should Join Our Team
This is an exciting time for Corrections as we take the lead in the historic overhaul of our criminal justice system. As one of the State’s largest agencies, we are constantly on the lookout for high-character people. You will receive great health and retirement benefits, as well as generous paid time off so you can spend more time with your family and have a positive work-life balance. This is an outstanding opportunity for an outstanding individual. Click here to see a summary of the benefits that we offer.

The Agency
Our dedicated team of professionals ensures public safety by effectively managing offenders while maintaining close collaboration with partner agencies and the community. Our team is devoted to providing maximum opportunities for offenders to make lasting changes through accountability, treatment, education, and positive reinforcement within a safe environment.
For additional information about the Utah Department of Corrections please click here.

Supplemental Information
Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.
Risks found in the typical office setting, which is adequately lighted, heated and ventilated, e.g., safe use of office equipment, avoiding trips and falls, observing fire regulations, etc.
Typically, the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work; however, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying light items; driving an automobile, etc. Special physical demands are not required to perform the work.