Public Information Officer

Prince-William-County-Government; County Center (VA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 111,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

VRS retirement

401a/457 plans

Leave benefits

Medical/dental plans

Life insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Career development

Job summary

The Prince William County Department of Fire & Rescue is seeking an experienced Public Information Officer to lead communications for employees, residents, media, and officials. You will oversee public relations, branding, digital content, social media, photography, videography, and events, coordinating with partners county-wide.

The role requires a strategic communicator who can manage staff, supervise projects, and respond to incidents and media requests, ensuring timely and accurate

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and 7 years related experience in public information or administration, communications.
• Preference for a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public or Digital Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field.
• Proven experience in community, agency, or corporate communications.
• Knowledge of major social media platforms and media relations; ability to develop engaging content.

Responsibilities

• Lead communications, public relations, marketing, branding, digital communications, and web strategies.
• Supervise Communications staff and oversee media relations and community events.
• Coordinate content development for social media, photography, and videography.
• Represent the department at events and meetings with staff, officials, and partners.

Skills

Public information

Communications

Media relations

Social media management

Supervisory experience

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications

Public or Digital Relations

Journalism

Marketing

Job description

The Prince William County Department of Fire & Rescue is seeking an experienced and strategic communications professional to serve as the Public Information Officer (PIO).

This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the Department's communication with employees, residents, media, public officials, and community partners while supporting the mission of one of the County’s most visible and essential public safety organizations.

About This Role

The Public Information Officer will lead and oversee communications, public relations, marketing, branding, digital communications, and web-based strategies. Duties include but are not limited to providing effective communication correspondence by multiple mediums, news media, and community relations, management, and oversight of social media platforms, digital media content development, photography and videography needs, attendance and participation in department, Prince William County, and community events, and other duties as assigned in support of the office and the department’s mission. The position will supervise Communications staff, lead Communications initiatives and projects, coordinate media relations, and evaluate the effectiveness of communication efforts.

Minimum Requirements

High school diploma or GED and 7 years of related experience in public information or administration, community, agency, or corporate communications.

Preferences

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public or Digital Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field of study.
• Demonstrated experience in community, agency, or corporate communications.
• Proficient in computer skills.
• Knowledge of major social media platforms (Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube), media relations, and demonstrated ability to develop and manage engaging content in a professional environment.
• 3 years of supervisory experience.
• Experience in public safety.
• Budget preparation and management experience.
• Ability to establish productive interpersonal relationships and effectively exchange information across a diverse range of audiences.

Special Requirements

Effective October 2012, mandated by the Virginia State Board of Health 12VAC5-31-540, Virginia EMS Regulations require a criminal background check conducted through the Virginia State Police and applicable federal databases. A driving record transcript may also be required. A valid driver’s license is required.

The selection process will include multiple stages, which may include a work product, presentation, and panel interview.

The successful candidate will need to be flexible in their availability to respond to Fire and Rescue incidents, media requests, and community outreach programs.

Work Schedule

This will primarily be a Monday – Friday position; however, due to the nature of Fire and Rescue operations, some work may occur nights, weekends, or holidays. Limited teleworking will be considered based on the department’s needs. Selected candidates may be required on the scene of active incidents.

Starting Salary Range

$82,777.50 - $111,033.50

Benefits

• Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• 401a and 457 retirement savings and investment plans
• Paid Annual Leave
• Paid Personal Leave
• Paid Sick Leave
• Paid Holidays
• Optional Group Medical and Dental Health Plans
• Optional Group Life Insurance
• An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Career Development Opportunities

Full time positions with Prince William County Government qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. PSLF for additional information.

NOTE

The above position description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department. To view the class description in its entirety, click here

Prince William County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.