Public Information Officer

• Disseminates authorized information to the media and other agencies through various communications tactics and formats;
• Responds to the scene of major incidents and/or attends meetings and collects pertinent information for reports and media releases;
• Secures media coverage of programs and activities of the Department which serve the community;
• Edits news releases and publications to inform the public of departmental services and activities;
• Research specific media inquiries that require statistics, background or interviews with other department personnel and coordinates interviews;
• Demonstrates accuracy, sound judgement, and effectiveness when implementing communications strategies for the news media, community members, and employees
• Curates, writes and edits content for Department publications (annual report, newsletter, etc.);
• Plans photographic coverage to support Department activities and programs
• Identify creative opportunities to engage community members through Department resources, services, and special events
• Maintains an up-to-date report of media clippings and broadcast coverage;
• Performs related work as required.

• Proven experience with proactive and responsive media relations, crisis communications, event management and community outreach.
• Proven experience developing content for various social media platforms.
• Knowledge of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act and other laws and policies governing the release of confidential information.
• Successfully manage a variety of projects concurrently.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships.

Minimum & Additional Requirements

Two-Year College Degree; three years of experience in public relations, Public Information or publications editing work; and completion of college-level courses in journalism, public administration, government, or a related field; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, Marketing, Communications, or a closely related field. Seven (7) years of experience in communications, media or public relations; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Previous experience in public safety and bilingual preferred.
Four Year College Degree; thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of Public Information work and the organization and functions of local governments; good knowledge of the requirements of broadcast media and the ability to prepare material for their use; prior experience (sworn or non-sworn) in law enforcement or a related public safety field; excellent computer skills including social media proficiency, proficiency in Microsoft Suite applications and Adobe InDesign is highly desirable; outstanding writing, editing and proofreading abilities; fluency in Spanish or another foreign language;