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Public Information Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CMT Services Inc.

Public Information Officer

Largo, MD · On-site

Public Information Officer (Production Control Clerk) * Graphic Design and Production * A1. Assists the Vision Zero Coordinator and Public Information Officer (PIO) with the design and production of ...

City of Pasco, WA

Public Information Officer

Pasco, WA · On-site

$98K - $117K/yr

As Public Information Officer, you will help develop and deliver public information, communication plans, media relations, digital content, and outreach efforts that inform residents, promote City ...

City of Portland

Public Information Officer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$102K - $129K/yr

The Public Information Officer (PIO) leads media relations across Portland's integrated water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities. The PIO serves as a key media strategist, adviser, and liaison.

CMT Services Inc

Public Information Officer

Largo, MD · On-site

Public Information Officer (Production Control Clerk) * Graphic Design and Production * A1. Assists the Vision Zero Coordinator and Public Information Officer (PIO) with the design and production of ...

City of Pasco

Public Information Officer

Pasco, WA · On-site

$98K - $117K/yr

... Public Information Officer, you will help develop and deliver public information, communication plans, media relations, digital content, and outreach efforts that inform residents, promote City ...

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How much do public information officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for public information officer in the United States is $80,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public information officer?

A public information officer oversees communications between a government entity or business and the press or media. As a public information officer, your responsibilities include organizing data and facts, generating and distributing press releases, managing questions from press and media outlets, and addressing the public via press conferences. Your duties may also involve managing social media accounts.

What does a public information officer do?

A Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for managing and disseminating information between an organization and the public, including the media. They prepare press releases, organize press conferences, and respond to inquiries to ensure clear and accurate communication during both routine operations and emergencies. PIOs play a crucial role in maintaining the organization's reputation, providing timely updates, and ensuring transparency. They often work for government agencies, public safety departments, or large organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public information officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Information Officer, you need strong written and verbal communication skills, a background in journalism, communications, or public relations, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, content management systems, and social media platforms is typically required, along with certifications such as APR (Accredited in Public Relations) being advantageous. Exceptional crisis management, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work under pressure are key soft skills that make someone excel in this position. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate and timely dissemination of information, maintaining public trust, and effectively representing an organization during routine and emergency situations.

What are the biggest challenges public information officers face when managing communication during a crisis?

Public Information Officers (PIOs) often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving information, high public scrutiny, and the need to coordinate messaging across multiple agencies during a crisis. Balancing transparency with confidentiality, especially when details are sensitive or uncertain, requires strong judgment and communication skills. Additionally, PIOs must manage media inquiries, social media updates, and community outreach simultaneously to ensure accurate and timely information reaches all audiences.
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Public Information Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Information Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,663 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Public Information Officer

CITY OF ELIZABETH CITY

Elizabeth City, NC • On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES The Public Information Officer is responsible for directing and coordinating the City of Elizabeth City's internal and external communications, public information, marketing, media relations, digital communications, community engagement, and public relations programs. This position serves as the City's primary communications liaison between the City Manager's Office, Senior Management Staff, employees, residents, businesses, community organizations, news media, and the public. The position develops and implements communication strategies that provide timely, accurate, transparent, and accessible information regarding City services, programs, policies, projects, meetings, events, and initiatives.

The position oversees the City's public information functions, including media relations, website content, social media, the EC Live App, government-access television programming, video production, photography, publications, public service announcements, livestreaming, community outreach, and City branding. The position supervises assigned communications and media production personnel and serves as an advisor to the City Manager and Senior Management Staff regarding public messaging, media relations, crisis communications, and citizen engagement. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS Public Information and Media Relations Serves as the City's Public Information Officer and central point of contact for public information and media relations.

Develops and implements comprehensive communications strategies for the City and advises the City Manager, Senior Management Staff, and employees regarding public information and media relations. Develops and distributes news releases, media advisories, public notices, fact sheets, talking points, newsletters, announcements, public service announcements, and other communication materials. Coordinates news conferences, media briefings, interviews, and public information events.

Digital Communications, Website and EC Live App Oversees the City's official website, social media platforms, EC Live App, and other electronic communication channels. Develops, edits, and publishes accurate, informative, and engaging digital content. Coordinates with City departments to ensure online information is current, accessible, user-friendly, and consistent with City communication standards.

Oversees social media engagement, monitors public comments and questions, and coordinates appropriate responses. Promotes the EC Live App as a primary tool for citizen engagement and access to City information. Coordinates with departments to maintain current information regarding City services, programs, events, meetings, announcements, and other community resources.

Reviews engagement data and recommends improvements to increase citizen participation and use of digital platforms. Government Access Television and Video Production Oversees the City's government-access television programming and video production operations. Coordinates the recording, production, editing, livestreaming, and distribution of City Council meetings, public meetings, special events, interviews, public service announcements, educational programming, and other City content.

Develops original programming to inform residents about City government, services, departments, programs, projects, and community initiatives. Coordinates interviews, photography, video production, lighting, audio recording, editing, graphics, and broadcasting. Works with City departments to identify topics and develop effective video and television programming.

Maintains production schedules and ensures programming meets City communication, branding, technical, and professional standards. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Emergency and Crisis Communications Serves as a key communications representative during emergencies, disasters, severe weather events, public safety incidents, and other situations requiring immediate public notification. Coordinates with the City Manager, Police Department, Fire Department, Public Utilities, Emergency Management, and other departments to ensure timely and accurate emergency information is provided to the public and media.

Develops and distributes emergency alerts, public safety announcements, social media updates, website notices, press releases, and other emergency communications. Serves as the City's media liaison during emergency and crisis situations. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Mass Communications, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field.

A master's degree is preferred. Experience: Minimum Five years of progressively responsible experience in public information, communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, media relations, digital communications, government communications, or a related field, including at least two years of supervisory or management experience. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Valid North Carolina driver's license and acceptable driving record. Must be available to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergencies when required, including City Council meetings, special events, public meetings, press conferences, and other City functions. Must maintain confidentiality and exercise appropriate discretion regarding sensitive City information.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of: Principles and practices of public information, communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, media relations, digital communications, social media, video production, photography, livestreaming, branding, crisis communications, and citizen engagement; municipal government organization and operations; Skill in: Written and oral communication; media relations; public speaking; strategic communications planning; social media and digital marketing; website and digital content management; video production and editing; photography; livestreaming; graphic design; and crisis communications.

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