Public Information Officer - Police

Mt Thompson South Carolina•Mount Pleasant, SC

About The Position

The Police Department Public Information Officer serves as the civilian lead for external and internal communications, media relations, and digital content production for the Mount Pleasant Police Department. This position is designed to enhance public engagement, build trust, and promote transparency in law enforcement operations. The PIO develops and implements communication strategies, manages social and emerging media platforms, creates multimedia content, and responds to media inquiries. The position plays a critical role in crisis communication, community outreach, and maintaining the department’s public image and brand.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, graphic design, video production, journalism or related field and five (5) years of work experience, preferably including experience in the public relations field;Or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Valid South Carolina Driver’s License.
Understanding of law enforcement operations, public information protocols, and emergency communications procedures.
Proven ability to manage digital platforms and websites, including real-time engagement and analytics tracking.
Expertise in multimedia storytelling - videography, photography, editing, and motion graphics.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including journalism-style writing.
Proven ability to work in a fast-moving environment on multiple projects simultaneously with attention to detail, flexibility to respond to shifting priorities, and to work efficiently under the pressure of deadlines.
Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with officers, staff, media, and the public.
Proficiency with social media management tools, CMS platforms, and audiovisual equipment.
Ability to exercise discretion, confidentiality, and sound judgment in sensitive or high-profile matters.
Strong presentation and public speaking skills.
Experience in crisis and emergency communications
Skill in the use of personal computers and presentation software, including Adobe Photoshop, Updater, word processing, spreadsheet applications, PowerPoint, and web design programs.
Knowledge of audiovisual equipment.
Ability to be immediately responsive.
Ability to stand, walk, and move about sites, including uneven terrain, while carrying camera equipment, frequently throughout the day.
Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.
Requires good vision, hearing, and clear speech for communication and safety.
Occasional crouching, stooping, or stretching to access materials or equipment.
Must be available for after-hours response during emergencies, community events or major incidents.
Communication Skills: Ability to craft clear, concise, and accurate messages for public safety under high-stress, rapidly evolving or emergency situations.
Analytical Thinking: Ability to quickly assess situations, verify information, and determine what the public needs to know.

Nice To Haves

Preferred proficiency in basic video, photo, and graphic editing and design

Responsibilities

Serve as the Police Department’s primary Public Information Officer and media contact.
Develop, implement, and maintain proactive communication strategies focused on accuracy, transparency, and public engagement.
Coordinate media responses, prepare press releases, and respond to inquiries from news organizations.
Manage the department’s social media presence (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Nextdoor), ensuring timely, accurate, and engaging content.
Plan and produce multimedia content including videos, photography, graphics, and live streams covering department programs, events, and public safety messages.
Serve as official videographer and photographer for department activities, events, and news releases.
Coordinate livestreaming and digital archiving of departmental and public meetings.
Assist command staff in developing talking points, media briefings, and outreach material.
Provide crisis communication support before, during, and after emergencies, in coordination with the Crisis Communications Plan.
Develop communication plans for high-profile incidents and community initiatives.
Oversee and maintain the department’s website and digital assets, ensuring consistent branding and messaging.
Build and maintain relationships with local and regional media, community organizations, and partner agencies.
Train and advise department staff on media interaction and social media guidelines.
Research and apply innovative outreach and multimedia techniques to enhance public engagement.
Monitor analytics and prepare reports on communication performance, reach, and engagement metrics.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.