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City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

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Public Information Request Consultant


FLSA: Standard/Exempt EEO Category: (20) Professionals
Class Code: 10294 Salary Grade: TH2
Approved: Last Revised: May 12, 2023


Purpose:
 

Under minimal direction, responsible for planning and coordinating a broad range of public information services citywide with the accountability for the dissemination of public information regarding departmental and Citywide public information requests.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
  Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  1. Works on assignments that are complex in nature where considerable judgement and initiative are required in resolving problems and making recommendations.
  2. Assigns public information requests citywide.
  3. Audits submissions of public information requests to ensure compliance with policies, procedures and City, State, and Federal laws.
  4. Coordinates and collaborates with key stakeholders regarding public information initiatives and submissions to meet guidelines and goals.
  5. Communicates with external stakeholders regarding submitting public information requests and release of responsive information.
  6. Establishes program methods and ensures compliance with laws, including redaction and reporting requirements.
  7. Interprets and provides guidance on, applicable systems, policies, procedures, strategies, process workflows, and regulations.
  8. Resolves non-compliance issues by investigating and resolving discrepancies, complaints, and disputes between involved parties.
  9. Works with City staff and other entities to negotiate agreements and assist with resolving appeals and claims related to public information requests.
  10. Provides training and consulting expertise to internal and external customers regarding public information processes, procedures, and policies.
  11. Reviews and performs quality checks of program-related data.
  12. Develops and maintains management reporting to support decision making and policy development.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
 

May provide leadership, work assignments, training, and guidance to others.  

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
  • Knowledge of public information, marketing, public relations, and media relations programs.
  • Knowledge of the functions and organization of municipal government to include the relationships between departments, divisions, and agencies.
  • Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and Local laws.
  • Knowledge of the principles associated with the role of meeting the necessary standards of customer service.
  • Knowledge of city practices, policies, and procedures, statutes, and ordinances.
  • Skill in oral and written communication.
  • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
  • Skill in using computers and related software.
  • Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
  • Skill in planning and organizing.
  • Ability to interpret policies and guidelines.
  • Ability to write articles for publication.
  • Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
  • Ability to lead and train others.
  • Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.
Minimum Qualifications:
 
  • Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a field related to the job, plus four (4) years of related experience. Experience may substitute for education up to a maximum of four (4) years.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
 

None


This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.