Salary : $86,997.22 – $120,033.18 Annually
Location : Bellevue, WA
Job Type: Regular
Job Number: 23-00554
Department: City Manager’s Office
Division: CMO_DCMG1_Communications
Opening Date: 09/13/2023
Closing Date: 10/4/2023 11:59 PM Pacific
Come Join the City of Bellevue!
Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. Read the “Hiring Process” section below to learn more.
Job Summary
The City of Bellevue is looking for a professional communicator ready to be part of a community-focused vision for sharing the stories and developments of a growing city on the move. A key function this role supports is transportation, helping to keep residents informed and engaged on major mobility projects from light rail implementation to bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements to major road projects. The Public Information Officer (PIO) plans and administers public information initiatives and public relations programs to effectively represent the City of Bellevue to the media and the public. May be assigned to a primary department, division or function (e.g. Transportation) but also serves other city departments as needed. Manages, develops, coordinates and implements the communication of information that is important to residents, visitors to Bellevue, employees and employers, news media, project partners and the city. Implements communication strategies and leads programs and staff in the messaging and communication of various citywide information, initiatives and programs. Promotes resident involvement in city government and provides opportunities for residents to learn about city programs, services and operations and provide feedback and input.
Supervision Received and Exercised:
- Works under the general supervision of a manager in the City Manager’s Office
- Works closely and collaboratively with department leadership to plan and prioritize communications work
- May supervise staff and volunteers, as assigned
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Performs duties and responsibilities commensurate with assigned functional area which may include any combination of the following tasks:
- Defines goals for public engagement, information dissemination and public relations initiatives and programs; recommends methods and techniques for implementation.
- Leads public relations for assigned teams/projects; organizes and facilitates meetings; advises and assists in the development of key messages and the overall communication plan; provides training and support to staff in order to ensure consistent, accurate messaging.
- Analyzes public understanding and advises on methods to inform and educate the community.
- Produces and coordinates dissemination of information and materials including publications, social media, brochures, newsletters, videos, web information and other collateral; meets with staff to determine key messages and themes.
- Prepares and presents written and verbal communications, easily comprehensible for a variety of audiences.
- Coordinates media and may help prepare event plans for public events in support of city programs and initiatives.
- Develops and implements communications and public engagement plans; prepares communication plans for potential emergency and crisis situations.
- Presents information to the public in a timely and effective manner.
- Anticipates news media responses and acts as spokesperson accordingly.
- Provides prompt, accurate public information during emergency and disaster situations.
- Communicates information to employees and the public, ensuring a consistent, effective and efficient process.
- Ensures that messages in print, digital, and TV media are factual and consistent with the city’s image and branding.
- Respond to emergent events outside of regular office hours.
- Coordinate and facilitate internal teams working on strategic initiatives.
- Liaise and coordinate communications with regional and local partner organizations.
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies
- Knowledge of public relations and public engagement techniques and strategies; knowledge of media relations strategies; working knowledge or strong interest in project, department or program being represented, in this case primarily transportation.
- Knowledge of elements of web and social media content development; ability to write and oversee the design of promotional and informational materials.
- Skill in making persuasive public presentations.
- Skill in listening and responding to residents and other customers on a variety of issues.
- Ability to establish effective working relationships with the news media, employees, managers, residents, partner agencies, stakeholders, appointed and elected officials; ability to work in a team environment and to work independently.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and to consider and value diverse perspectives while developing equitable and accessible communications.
- Ability to manage multiple projects under deadline, accomplish goals using sound analytical and decision-making skills and to creatively problem solve complex issues.
Core Competencies
- Focuses on the Customer: We are focused on the needs of the customer, and on developing strong relationships with our customers.
- Instills Trust: Through authenticity, integrity and honesty, we gain the trust and respect of all of those with whom we work.
- Communicates Effectively: We understand the need to develop multiple forms of communication across several channels to address the needs of all of the audiences with whom we are engaging.
- Cultivates Innovation: We are focused on generating new and creative ways for our organization to be successful and communicate effectively in a changing world.
- Values Differences: Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.
Education, Experience, and Other Requirements
- Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in communications, public relations or related field.
- Four or more years of professional experience involving communicating with the public or other related areas.
- Or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
- Required to respond expediently to emerging situations in various locations. Driver’s License may be required.
Other
Physical Demands
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Work involves moving, communicating, operating objects, tools, or controls and reaching.
- Vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
- The employee may be required transport, position, install and/or move objects up to 20 pounds.
- The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet while in the office or moderately loud when in the field.
Hiring Process:
The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when we are screening the applications. We will redact information from our application such as your name, address, and other demographics. To help us, please complete the online application form as fully as possible.
- We do not accept resumes and cover letters during the anonymous application screening stage.
- Applicants advancing to the next stage will be required to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references.
- Answer the Supplemental Questions included as part of this employment opportunity.
- Only electronic applications are accepted.
HIRING PROCESS
The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when we are screening the applications. We will redact information from our application such as your name, address, and other demographics. To help us, please complete the online application form as fully as possible.
- Answer the Questions when requested and can be found on the Questions tab of the Job posting.
- We do not accept resumes and cover letters during the anonymous application screening stage.
- Applicants advancing to the next stage may be required to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
- All candidates will be required to establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire. The City is not able to sponsor work visas.
- All positions the completion of references checks, including at least one prior supervisor.
- Some positions may require completion of a criminal background check prior to start employment
- Some positions may require obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL), licensures, or additional certifications.
The City of Bellevue values diversity in its workforce and is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, veteran’s status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local laws.
At the City of Bellevue, you’ll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest and advancing the community vision. The five essential and enduring principles that guide our individual actions, our interactions, and our decision making in the City of Bellevue organization is: exceptional public service, stewardship, committee to employees, integrity, and innovation. You’ll work in an environment that is innovative, collaborative, future focused, and committed to excellence. Bellevue welcomes the world. Our diversity is our strength. We embrace the future while respecting our past. It’s what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore.
Have we piqued your interest yet? Come join our team! The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status. Persons needing assistance with the application process may call the Human Resources Office at 425-452-6838 or If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify HR before you are scheduled for an interview or testing.
The City of Bellevue participates in the E-Verify program. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
For any technical difficulties with your application, please contact the NEOGOV support line at 855-524-5627.
** Please be sure to check your junk folder for any messages that may be sent to you about this recruitment.**
The City of Bellevue offers employees a comprehensive benefits package providing choice, flexibility, and value!
Please Note: Seasonal, part-time, and variable employees are not eligible for the below benefits except for mandatory participation in the retirement plan assigned to the position, which will be the Municipal Employees Benefit Trust (MEBT 2) retirement plan or the Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement plan and any other benefits as required by law.
The following summary applies to fully benefited positions:
Medical
Employees are offered a choice of medical coverage through the City’s self-insured Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan or Kaiser Permanente (HMO).
Dental
Employees are offered a choice of two dental carriers with plans that offer regular checkups, x-rays, fillings, and crowns. Orthodontia is available through one of the carriers.
Vision
Employees are offered a choice of vision coverage through an annual exam-only plan or a buy-up plan which includes an annual eye exam and hardware coverage.
Retirement Plans – Employees are offered three retirement plans:
- Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS): Mandatory participation (PERS, LEOFF or PSERS), depending upon eligibility.
- City of Bellevue Municipal Employee’s Benefit Trust (MEBT): Optional participation in this 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match contributions that vest on a 3-year schedule.
- Deferred Compensation Program (457 DCP): Optional participation in the supplemental Deferred Compensation Program also administered by DRS that allows tax-deferred savings into a variety of investments options.
Other benefits include:
More detailed information about our employee benefits is available at
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Life/Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
- Long Term Disability (LTD)
- Survivor Income
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- 11 observed holidays per year plus 2 additional personal holidays, vacation (standard accrual of 12 days a year), and sick leave (accumulated at the rate of one day per month)
- An ORCA Card bus pass
- On-site fitness center, and self service food/coffee options
- Career development and training programs
- Tuition Reimbursement Program
- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
Paydays – The City of Bellevue pays employees on the 8th and the 23rd of each month (24 pay periods per year).
Please note that the City does not participate in the Social Security Administration (SSA) program, and employees do not earn social security credits. The mandatory DRS retirement pension plan provides the required social security replacement plan. Any social security benefits earned at other places of employment may be reduced because they are subject to the Windfall Elimination Provision or the Government Pension Offset.
NOTE: This is a brief summary of the benefit programs for the City’s non-represented employees. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Benefits for employees represented by a may have different benefits. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a CBA, the CBA prevails. Also, in the event of any incorrect information in this document, applicable laws, policies, rules, CBAs, or official plan documents will prevail.
01
Why are you interested in this position and how does your previous experience make you a qualified candidate?
02
What experience do you have in managing media requests and serving as a spokesperson and/or training spokespersons?
Required Question