Public Information Request Specialist

About This Position

Job Description:

Public Information Request Specialist

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.

• Handles public information requests, forwarding to correct divisions or departments for responses.
• Reviews submitted responsive information and ensures appropriate redactions are applied.
• Researches information as requested and needed.
• Coordinates with other agencies and personnel for certain aspects of mutual research or investigation on public information requests.
• Responds to client or customer complaints or escalates to appropriate personnel.
• Counsels and facilitates interventions for the prevention of errors involving department and program plans.
• Provides information to citizens, individually and in groups, regarding organization, operations, laws, policies, and procedures.
• Reviews public information reports or tracking and updates as necessary.
• Compiles data and writes informational reports.
• 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.

Preferred Experience:

• Knowledge and hands-on experience working with the Texas Open Records Act and processing Public Information Requests within a municipal environment.
• Experience in a high-volume deliverable environment with close attention to detail.
• Experience working with databases and other technology to track and compile information.
• Experience working with legal staff.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
• Experience working with Adobe Acrobat Pro for document redaction.
• Experience with GovQA software.

Other:

• Ability to travel to more than one work location.





Compensation Range:

The annual hiring range for this position is $0.00-$0.00



Notes to Candidate:

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (APR) provides, protects and preserves a park system that promotes quality recreational, cultural and outdoor experiences for the Austin community. Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits, such as medical, paid leave time, a great retirement plan, training opportunities and more! Click HERE for more information.

The purpose of the Seasonal – Public Information Request Specialist position is to provide high-level research and support to internal stakeholders on Public Information Request submission responses and administration at Austin Parks and Recreation.

Application Instructions/Job Requirements:

• Application: A detailed, complete application is required, and applicants must include on their Employment Record all experience (work and/or volunteer) related to this job posting – up to 10 years or more; this will be used to determine your base compensation. Employment Record dates must include month and year. Verification of employment history dates on resume should match online Employment Application. Statements such as “See Resume” will not be accepted and a resume alone will not be accepted in lieu of a complete online application.
• Military/Veteran Preference for Interview Process: An applicant claiming Military/Veteran status must provide a copy of his or her DD-214(s), or valid comparable document, at the time of interview.
• Physical Requirements: Tasks may involve bending, lifting, walking, carrying, or using a force equal to lifting up to twenty-five (25) pounds. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be physically and mentally able to communicate, respond, and work with participant’s needs and safety issues.

Other Information:

• Application Status Communication: Please note that you will be contacted if you are selected to move forward in the hiring process. Once the department is no longer hiring for this position, you may receive a notification informing you the position is closed and the hiring process is concluded.
• Travel: If you are selected for this position, and meet the Driver Safety Standards in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program, you may drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties. Otherwise, you are responsible for getting to and from these locations.
• All APR Work Site Locations are Tobacco-free: Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any APR work site – including construction sites, parking lots, garages or in any personal vehicles located on the premises.

Salary:

$29.11 per hour

Work Location:

Austin Parks and Recreation Main Office - 200 S. Lamar Blvd.

Work Schedule:

• Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (20 hours per week).
• May be required to work during special events, evenings, weekends & holidays.
• Work schedule and location is subject to change based on department needs and programs.
• May be required to work during city emergencies such as extreme weather events.

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JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

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EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.