Public Information Officer

Prince William County Government • Woodbridge, VA

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Prince William County Department of Fire & Rescue is seeking an experienced and strategic communications professional to serve as the Public Information Officer (PIO). This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the Department's communication with employees, residents, media, public officials, and community partners while supporting the mission of one of the County’s most visible and essential public safety organizations. The Public Information Officer will lead and oversee communications, public relations, marketing, branding, digital communications, and web-based strategies. Duties include but are not limited to providing effective communication correspondence by multiple mediums, news media, and community relations, management, and oversight of social media platforms, digital media content development, photography and videography needs, attendance and participation in department, Prince William County, and community events, and other duties as assigned in support of the office and the department’s mission. The position will supervise Communications staff, lead Communications initiatives and projects, coordinate media relations, and evaluate the effectiveness of communication efforts.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• 7 years of related experience in public information or administration, community, agency, or corporate communications.
• Proficient in computer skills.
• Knowledge of major social media platforms (Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube).
• Knowledge of media relations.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage engaging content in a professional environment.
• Ability to establish productive interpersonal relationships and effectively exchange information across a diverse range of audiences.
• Criminal background check conducted through the Virginia State Police and applicable federal databases.
• A valid driver’s license is required.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public or Digital Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field of study.
• Demonstrated experience in community, agency, or corporate communications.
• 3 years of supervisory experience.
• Experience in public safety.
• Budget preparation and management experience.
• Driving record transcript may also be required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee communications, public relations, marketing, branding, digital communications, and web-based strategies.
• Provide effective communication correspondence by multiple mediums.
• Manage and oversee social media platforms.
• Develop digital media content.
• Address photography and videography needs.
• Attend and participate in department, Prince William County, and community events.
• Supervise Communications staff.
• Lead Communications initiatives and projects.
• Coordinate media relations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of communication efforts.

Benefits

• Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• 401a and 457 retirement savings and investment plans
• Paid Annual Leave
• Paid Personal Leave
• Paid Sick Leave
• Paid Holidays
• Optional Group Medical and Dental Health Plans
• Optional Group Life Insurance
• An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Career Development Opportunities
• Full time positions with Prince William County Government qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED