Public Information Coordinator

Performs highly advanced (senior-level) informational and communications work in the Behavioral Health Services (BHS) Cross Division Coordination unit. Serves as the department's open records and external data coordinator, reviewing, processing, and tracking requests received by or assigned to BHS.

Processes, develops, coordinates and reviews media inquiries, news and informational releases, talking points and scripts, presentations, organizational publications, BHS newsletter content, fact sheets, and information for websites and social media. Provides consultative services and technical assistance to program staff, department leadership, and HHS Communications, reconciling issues for timely completion of each project. Works on cross-agency communications initiatives and projects.

Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Essential Job Functions:

(40%) Serves as the open records and external data request coordinator for the BHS department, acting as the liaison between program and HHS Office of Chief Counsel. Reviews, compiles, coordinates, communicates and tracks open records and external data requests to ensure adherence to deadlines, resolution of issues, and timely status updates to leadership.

Ensures agency policies and department procedures are followed. Maintains records. Liaisons with Internal Audit during reviews. Serves as a resource to BHS department staff on the Texas Public Information Act.

(40%) Using analytical skills and attention to detail, processes, develops, coordinates and reviews media inquiries, news and informational releases, talking points and scripts, presentations, organizational publications, BHS newsletter content, fact sheets, and information for websites and social media. Provides consultative services and technical assistance to program staff, department leadership, and HHS Communications, reconciling issues for timely completion of each project. Escalates issues to department leadership as appropriate for decision making and/or resolution.

(10%) Works in collaboration with BHS Cross Division Coordination team members to provide communications and open records training to BHS Department staff, creating ways to enhance department staff skills and knowledge, as well as optimize the quality of communications content and ensure adherence to department protocols and procedures. Develops, prepares, updates and disseminates policies and procedures for BHS department presentation, open records and external data requests processes.

Serves as an accessibility resource for the BHS department in collaboration with other BHS Cross Division Coordination team members. May assist with BHS major communications projects and initiatives assignments.

(10%) Works on HHSC cross agency projects, serves on workgroups and performs other work as assigned. Prepares ad-hoc reports as requested.

Collaborates with BHS sections and external partners on a consistent basis to coordinate policy, legislation projects, and initiatives that may impact the BHS department, supporting HHS legislative mandates and agency goals and objectives. Provides assistance and advice to BHS department staff to ensure policies, procedures, and processes are consistent with HHS guidance. Serves as a backup in the unit as assigned.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of principles of health and human services policy and planning and the State of Texas legislative processes.

Knowledge of the principles of leadership and interaction with various leadership styles.

Knowledge of the Texas Public Information Act.

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Skill in problem solving and conflict resolution.

Skill in developing and implementing communications strategies.

Skill in managing multiple, sometimes conflicting, priorities without jeopardizing deadlines and desired outcomes or milestones.

Skill in leadership, communication, convening groups, and public speaking.

Skill in the use of the Window system software.

Skill in the use of the Microsoft Office Suite, which includes PowerPoint, Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Visio.

Skill in developing, reviewing, writing and editing reports, executive documents, and briefings.

Ability to understand and effectively interpret agency and program rules, policies, and procedures and to train others.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing for diverse audiences including state officials, legislators, state employees, the general public, and other stakeholders.

Ability to conduct research and gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts.

Ability to demonstrate strong organizational skills, prioritize workload, and work independently with minimal supervision.

Ability to demonstrate strong leadership and interpersonal skills, work well with all levels of staff, and maintain effective working relationships with various levels of stakeholders within and outside of the HHS enterprise with diverse needs and priorities.

Ability to function as a team member. Registration or Licensure Requirements:

N/A Initial Selection Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in governmental relations, journalism, public relations, advertising, communications, English, or a related field. Relevant experience may be substituted for each year of required education.

At least two years of experience in developing, monitoring, and coordinating media inquiries and open records requests preferred. At least two years working for a health and human services agency preferred. Additional Information:

MOS Code:

There are no direct military occupation(s) that relate to the responsibilities, and registration or licensure requirements for this position. All active duty, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if they meet the qualifications for this position.

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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