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Public Information Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Coachella

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Coachella, CA · On-site

$128K - $156K/yr

Under general direction of the City Manager or his/her designee, the Public Information Officer develops, organizes, directs and evaluates a comprehensive communications, marketing and community ...

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 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 ...

Mace

Public Information Officer

New York, NY · On-site

$120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field. * 5 years of experience in public information, communications, or stakeholder engagement, preferably in large ...

City of Columbia

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Columbia, SC · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Responds to emergencies and serves as media contact for on-scene emergencies public information officer reporting to the incident commander and/or through the chain of command for all media releases;

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How much do public information officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 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 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.

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 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.
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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, 74% Full Time, 22% 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

Frederick County Local Government

Winchester, VA

$76K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description We are looking for a strategic Public Information Officer to develop, implement, and evaluate public information, media relations, and digital communications strategies that support County operations and strategic priorities. This role serves as a trusted advisor to County leadership on communications matters, planning and coordinating initiatives that inform and engage the public. The ideal candidate exercises sound judgment, political awareness, and discretion while communicating effectively in routine, sensitive, and rapidly evolving situations.

What You'll Do: As a Public Information Officer, you will: Public Information and Media Relations Serve as the County's primary media contact and advise leadership on communications strategies. Develop press releases, public statements, and crisis communications while managing media inquiries and coverage. Communications and Digital Content Create and manage content across the County's website, social media, digital, print, and other communication channels.

Ensure consistent messaging, branding, and public engagement through strategic communications. Community Engagement Represent the County at meetings, events, and outreach activities while building relationships with residents, media, and community partners. Maintain a visible and active presence in the community to support transparency and trust.

Strategic Communications Develop and evaluate communication strategies, recommend improvements, and leverage communication tools and analytics to support County priorities. Availability Respond to media and public inquiries and provide communications support during evenings, weekends, emergencies, and other high-profile situations as needed. What We're Looking For: Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, public administration, journalism, marketing, or a related field.

Must possess a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation. Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public-sector communications, public relations, or media relations, including experience serving as an organizational spokesperson. Ability to develop and implement communications strategies; prepare clear, accurate, and accessible content for multiple audiences and platforms; and communicate effectively in high-pressure, sensitive, or rapidly evolving situations.

Supplemental Information Working Conditions: Work is generally performed during normal business hours; however, evening and weekend meetings, community events, emergency activations, and after-hours communications support may be required. This position operates in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly, requiring flexibility and timely response to emerging issues. Physical Demands: Work requires prolonged sitting with occasional standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting or carrying up to 30 pounds.

The position requires the ability to communicate effectively, hear conversations and other sounds, and use visual acuity to review documents, operate office equipment, and perform assigned duties. Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment with a moderate noise level. Environmental Conditions: Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled office environment, with occasional work in public, outdoor, or emergency-response settings during meetings, events, and time-sensitive situations.

To learn more about Frederick County, Virginia employee benefits, please visit the following webpage: https://www.fcva.us/departments/human-resources/employee-benefits All positions are subject to a criminal background check for any convictions that relate to the job duties and responsibilities. Frederick County Virginia Government is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees

The County's EEO Utilization Report is available at www.fcva.us/jobs.

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