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City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

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Public Information Request Specialist
FLSA: Standard/Non-Exempt EEO Category: (50) Para-Prof
Class Code: 10298 Salary Grade: TG8
Approved: Last Revised: May 12, 2023

Purpose:
 

Under general supervision, provides high-level  research, collaboration, and support to internal stakeholders on Public Information Request submission responses and administration.
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. Handles public information requests, forwarding to correct divisions or departments for responses.
  2. Reviews submitted responsive information and ensures appropriate redactions are applied.
  3. Researches information as requested and needed.
  4. Coordinates with other agencies and personnel for certain aspects of mutual research or investigation on public information requests.
  5. Responds to client or customer complaints or escalates to appropriate personnel.
  6. Counsels and facilitates interventions for the prevention of errors involving department and program plans.
  7. Provides information to citizens, individually and in groups, regarding organization, operations, laws, policies, and procedures.
  8. Reviews public information reports or tracking and updates as necessary.
  9. Compiles data and writes informational reports.
  10. Produces memos, letters, reports, or other written material.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
 

None
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 applicable Federal, State, and Local laws.
  • Knowledge of public information requests including request language, terms, conditions, etc.
  • Knowledge of the functions of the departmental organization to include relationships between departments, divisions and agencies.
  • Knowledge of the principles associated with the role of meeting the necessary standards of customer service.
  • Knowledge of City practices, policies, procedures, statutes, and ordinances.
  • Skill in oral and written communication.
  • Skill in using computers and related software applications.
  • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
  • Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
  • Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
  • Skill in planning and organizing.
  • Ability to exercise discretion in confidential matters
  • Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
  • Ability to train others.
  • Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with 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 two (2) 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.