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Press Secretary Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

State of Virginia

Press Secretary

Richmond, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Press Secretary Apply now Job no: 5108678 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Richmond (City), Virginia Categories: Public Relations / Communications Title: Press Secretary State Role Title:

DVS V3

00063 - Div Admin Comm

Richmond, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Serve as liaison with outside organizations and agencies, including the Governor's press office, the Secretary of Transportation's office, and the Federal Highway Administration. Ensure VDOT leaders ...

Parsons

Public Affairs Officer - Mid

Springfield, VA · On-site

... Board Secretary, and oversee the annual awards event. * Internal Collaboration * Provide copy ... Demonstrated experience drafting press materials (releases, media advisories) and responding to ...

ManTech

Senior Public Affairs Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$140K - $224K/yr

Oversee the full media lifecycle, including drafting press releases, managing inquiries, providing ... Serve as Secretary for the Hall of Fame Selection Board, overseeing the entire nomination, vetting ...

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All JobsPress Secretary JobsPress Secretary Jobs in Virginia

Press Secretary information

See Virginia salary details

$42.1K

$86.4K

$116K

How much do press secretary jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for press secretary in Virginia is $86,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $94,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a press secretary do?

A press secretary works for a government agency, industry, or organization and helps their employer communicate with the public. These public relations professionals perform similar responsibilities as public affairs specialists but are often more knowledgeable on the law, politics, and government. As a press secretary, your job duties include answering questions from reporters, writing press releases and speeches, planning meetings, and presenting information to the media to improve the organization’s public image.

What does a press secretary do?

A Press Secretary serves as the primary spokesperson for an organization, government office, or political figure. They are responsible for managing media relations, preparing press releases, organizing press conferences, and responding to inquiries from journalists. The Press Secretary ensures that the organization's message is communicated clearly and effectively to the public and the media. Additionally, they often advise leadership on public relations strategies and help shape the public image of their employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a press secretary?

To thrive as a Press Secretary, you need expertise in media relations, public communications, and a background in journalism, public relations, or a related field. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, press release distribution platforms, and content management systems is typically required. Exceptional verbal and written communication, crisis management, and interpersonal skills help build strong relationships with journalists and stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for effectively managing an organization's public image and ensuring clear, consistent messaging during both routine and high-pressure situations.

What are some common challenges press secretaries face when managing media relations during a crisis?

Press Secretaries often encounter significant pressure during crises, as they must balance transparency with protecting sensitive information. Coordinating consistent messaging across multiple departments and responding quickly to rapidly evolving situations are key challenges. Additionally, they must maintain trust with journalists while ensuring the organization's reputation is safeguarded. Staying calm under pressure and having strong crisis communication strategies are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Press Secretary vs Communications Specialist?

AspectPress SecretaryCommunications Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or related field; experience in media relationsBachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field; strong writing and media skills
Work EnvironmentPress briefings, media events, government or organization officesMarketing campaigns, corporate communications departments, media outlets
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, political offices, nonprofitsCorporations, PR firms, media organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve communication and media interaction, a Press Secretary primarily manages media relations and public messaging for government or organizations, often acting as the spokesperson. A Communications Specialist handles broader communication strategies, including marketing, branding, and internal communications. The roles overlap in skills and credentials but differ in focus and environment.

How much does a press secretary make annually?

The average annual salary for a press secretary in the United States is around $60,000 to $80,000, with experienced professionals earning over $100,000. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the organization’s size and sector, such as government or private industry.

What qualifications are needed to be a press secretary?

A press secretary typically needs a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, political science, or a related field. Strong written and verbal communication skills, experience in media relations, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations are essential. Some roles may also require familiarity with social media platforms and public relations tools.
More about Press Secretary jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Press Secretary jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Press Secretary jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Press Secretary jobs in Virginia?

For Press Secretary jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Press Secretary jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Press Secretary jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Press Secretary jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Press Secretary job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Press Secretary jobs in VA?

For Press Secretary jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Press Secretary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Press Secretary job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,409 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Press Secretary

State of Virginia

Richmond, VA • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

State Of Virginia rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states

Job description

Press Secretary

Apply now Job no: 5108678
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Richmond (City), Virginia
Categories: Public Relations / Communications

Title: Press Secretary

State Role Title: 

Hiring Range: $85,000 to $95,000 Commensurate with experience

Pay Band: UG

Agency: Office of the Governor

Location: Patrick Henry Building

Agency Website: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Office of Governor Abigail Spanberger is seeking a Press Secretary.
The Press Secretary will report directly to the Communications Director and the rest of the communications team to amplify the core priorities of the Spanberger Administration. This is a full-time At-Will position appointed by the Governor of Virginia, based in Richmond, Virginia.
This position will:
Serve as an on-the-record spokesperson for the Governor's Office
Draft press releases, media advisories, remarks, responses to media inquiries, and other external communications products as needed
Prepare talking points, briefing materials, memos, and other internal communications products as needed
Pitch compelling stories about the Administration's work
Help organize and staff effective earned media events
Travel with the Governor
Facilitate and prepare the Governor and members of the Cabinet for media appearances
Work across the Governor's Office, Secretariats, and state agencies to respond to media inquiries and secure media coverage
Build and maintain strong relationships with local, state, and national media
Perform all other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

At least five (5) years of professional experience in government, public policy, or political campaigns
Previous experience managing media relationships and responding to breaking news, and balancing multiple priorities under tight deadlines
Strong writer and editor with the ability to distill complex policy information into clear, compelling messaging for a variety of audiences
Sharp news judgment
Excellent interpersonal skills
Calm under pressure
A team player

Additional Considerations

Interested candidates should attach a resume, cover letter, and at least three writing samples with this application.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

The Governor's Office is an equal opportunity employer. The Commonwealth of Virginia and the Office of the Governor are dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse workforce.
This is an At-Will position appointed by the Governor of Virginia. Selected applicant will need to successfully pass a criminal background check. This position is based in Richmond, Virginia.
Interested candidates should attach a resume, cover letter, and at least three writing samples with this application.

Contact Information

Name: Communications Office

Phone: 804-786-2211

Email: VA75Hiring@governor.virginia.gov

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.

Advertised: 31 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 28 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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