Public Relations Coordinator

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Culpeper (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

The Virginia State Police seeks a Public Relations Coordinator in Culpeper or Fairfax, Virginia. This role supports the Public Relations Director and leads activities for a broad public affairs program, including media relations and public information.

Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, strong English communication, and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and video editing. The position emphasizes collaboration, deadlines, and responsible, energetic teamwork.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of developing and executing public relations campaigns, social media, and crisis communications.
• Experience drafting press releases, speeches, newsletters, and other materials.
• Ability to facilitate press conferences under tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Support the Public Relations Director and advance the department's public relations objectives.
• Independently manage public relations activities for a comprehensive PR program including media relations and public information.

Skills

Public relations knowledge

Media relations

Graphic design

Video editing

Photography

English communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalency

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe InDesign/Photoshop

Job description

Title: Public Relations Coordinator DSP02926

State Role Title:PR & Mktg Spec IV

Hiring Range: $60,202 to $111,682 for Culpeper or $79,763 to $114,859 for Fairfax. Final compensation is based on Virginia's 13 Pay Factors, internal alignment, and relevant experience. Top-range placement is not guaranteed.

Pay Band: 5

Agency: Department of State Police

Location:Culpeper, Virginia or Fairfax, Virginia

Agency Website:vsp.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

About the Position:

The Virginia State Police (VSP) is seeking to hire a Public Relations Coordinator in our Public Relations Office in Culpeper or Fairfax, Virginia. The job duties for this position include but are not limited to:

• Supporting the Public Relations Director and advancing the objectives of the Public Relations Office of the Virginia State Police
• Independently carrying out all public relations activities for a comprehensive public affairs, media relations, and public information program.

About the Agency:

At the Virginia State Police, we are more than just a law enforcement organization — we’re a united team of problem‑solvers, protectors, and public servants shaping the future of the Commonwealth. Every role here strengthens our mission to preserve life, protect the vulnerable, and enhance safety while upholding civil liberties throughout Virginia.

When you join VSP, your skills create real impact across every community we serve. Our culture is built on being selfless, engaged, and aware, and we succeed through timely, purposeful action; clear communication; personal accountability; and continuous improvement — together.

We prioritize the readiness and well‑being of all our people, entrusting decision‑making to those closest to the challenge and supporting one another with kind, direct feedback that helps us grow. At VSP, you will find meaningful work, real opportunities for advancement, and a supportive culture grounded in service, purpose, and the belief that we are One Mission. One Team. One VSP.

If you’re ready to make a difference and be part of something larger than yourself, your next career starts here.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge

• Knowledge of effective development, management and execution of public relations campaigns, social media platforms, marketing concepts, research methods, and crisis communications practices.
• Knowledge of researching and writing press releases, speeches, newsletters, and various publications.
• Knowledge of preparation and facilitation of press conferences under time constraints.

Skills

• Skill in graphic design and using personal computers with standard Microsoft Office software.
• Skill in Adobe InDesign/Photoshop.
• Skill in video editing and production.
• Skill in photography, and other web, cloud-based creative-design software.

Abilities

• Ability to work with news media and respond to and research media inquiries on deadline and/or in response to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing in English.
• Ability to organize and present ideas, materials, and concepts creatively.
• Ability to successfully manage multiple tasks in fast-paced, demanding work environment.
• Ability to set and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member.
• Ability to be self‑motivated and make logical decisions.
• Ability to assist with layout, design, and editing of external and internal public relations projects.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Department personnel, the public, and media.
• Ability to possess a positive attitude, energetic, creative team player with commitment to excellence.
• Demonstrated proficiency working with social media platforms.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• High school diploma or equivalency.

Additional Considerations

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with major studies in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or related field preferred.
• Experience with law enforcement and crisis communications is highly desired.

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

It is the policy of the Department of State Police (the Department) that all aspects of human resource management be conducted without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); sex; color; national origin; religion; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; veteran status; political affiliation; disability; genetic information; and pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

This policy shall be adhered to in all aspects of Departmental employment practices. It does not permit the lowering of bona fide job requirements, performance criteria, or qualifications to give preference to any state employee or applicant for state employment based on the above prohibitions.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST