Public Information Officer

City of Fredericksburg; Fredericksburg (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision coverage

Paid leave

Professional development and training

Virginia Retirement System (VRS)

Job summary

City of Fredericksburg is seeking a Public Information Officer to support comprehensive communications across City departments under the Communications Manager.

The role emphasizes editorial decision-making, media relations, social media management, content creation, and community engagement to inform residents and enhance public trust. Salary range reflects Virginia municipal government pay bands, with full benefits and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, public relations or a related field.
• Three years of experience in communications, journalism, media, public relations or closely related field.
• Possession of a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Act as spokesperson, issue press releases, handle media relationships.
• Manage City social media accounts and website branding, run digital campaigns.
• Create and edit brochures, press releases, graphics, and speeches.
• Present information to the public and coordinate community events, supporting emergency operations.

Skills

Editorial decision-making

Media relations

Community engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, public relations or a related field

Job description

Public Information Officer

CITY OF FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA

Hiring Range: $64,957 - $70,000 DOQ

Full-Time | Benefits | Professional Development

Built on a strong foundation. Ready for its next chapter.

What You’ll Do

The Public Information Officer for the City of Fredericksburg, under the Communications Manager, supports comprehensive communications across City departments. Responsibilities include creating public safety messaging, advising leadership, managing media relations, and contributing to communication operations. The ideal candidate should excel in editorial decision-making, media interactions, and engage tactfully with the community and City employees.

Job duties may consist of:

Media and Public Relations

Acting as the City’s spokesperson, distributing press releases, organizing news conferences, and identifying potential public relations issues. Building relationships with media professionals and monitoring media coverage are also key responsibilities to enhance the City’s image.

Digital and Social Media Management

Manage the City’s social media accounts and website, ensuring consistent branding, and executing digital marketing campaigns. This includes creating engaging content and serving as the main social media contact for all City departments.

Content Creation and Communication

Design and edit various materials such as brochures and press releases, creating graphics and advertisements, and serving as a photographer. The role also includes preparing speeches and offering guidance on public communication strategies.

Community Engagement and Event Coordination

Present information to the public, organize community events, and support emergency and public safety operations. The role also involves implementing the City’s brand communication strategy and maintaining its public image.

Why Join the Fredericksburg Team?

A Career with Purpose

This is not just a public relations role. It is an opportunity to influence how a full-service local government communicates with its citizens, manages public information, and builds trust within the community.

Comprehensive Benefits

The City offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support your health, financial security, and professional growth, including medical, dental and vision coverage; paid leave; professional development and training opportunities; and participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS).

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, public relations or a related field;
• Three (3) years of experience in communications, journalism, media, public relations, public safety or closely related field;
• Or equivalent education, and/or experience.

Special Requirements

• Possession of a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license
• FEMA ICS-100, ICS 200, ICS 300,IS-700, IS-800,IS-29 Public Information Officer Awareness andFEMA E0105 Public Information Basics or equivalent (Must be able to obtain within 6 months of employment.)

BRING YOUR LEADERSHIP TO FREDERICKSBURG

This is more than a job. It is an opportunity to build a stable, rewarding career while serving the residents and businesses of Fredericksburg. Join a knowledgeable, dedicated team that values accuracy, fairness, collaboration, public service, and committed to the City’s Core Values.

The City of Fredericksburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment based on any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.