Public Information Officer (PIO)

Georgetown County•Georgetown County, SC

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Public Information Officer develops, coordinates, and manages Georgetown County Government’s public information and communications program. The PIO serves as a primary liaison between County government, the news media, and the public, communicating timely, accurate, and consistent information about County operations, services, programs, and initiatives. The role manages media relations, social media, website content, multimedia production, and public outreach, and works with County administration, elected officials, departments, and community partners to promote transparency, public awareness, and community engagement. The PIO also provides communications guidance to County leadership and coordinates public information during emergencies, disasters, and other significant events with emergency services and public safety agencies. The position is performed primarily in an office, with frequent assignments at County facilities, public meetings, community events, and outdoor locations. It requires regular use of computers, cameras, mobile devices, and other communications equipment. Duties may include standing, walking, operating equipment, and transporting materials or equipment. Work may take place in varying weather and operational environments during public events or emergency and disaster response, consistent with applicable safety procedures. The employee must be available outside normal business hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency activations, and may work in hazardous conditions as required. Travel throughout Georgetown County and occasionally outside the County is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Mass Communications, Public Administration, Marketing, or a closely related field.
At least three years of progressively responsible professional experience in public information, media relations, public relations, journalism, digital communications, or a related field.
An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and be eligible to operate County vehicles under County policy.
Must be available to work outside normal business hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency activations, as necessary; work may include hazardous conditions.
Must be able to travel throughout Georgetown County and occasionally outside the County for meetings, training, and official business.
Must complete assigned emergency management, public information, and incident management training within established timeframes.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and manage the County’s public information and communications program, including communication strategies, public outreach initiatives, and informational campaigns.
Serve as a primary media contact and designated spokesperson; respond to media inquiries, coordinate interviews, and prepare news releases, public statements, and other informational materials.
Advise County administration, elected officials, and departments on public information matters, media relations, and communication strategies.
Manage official social media platforms and coordinate website content to ensure information is accurate, timely, accessible, and consistent with County branding.
Manage and coordinate the County’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) program, except requests directed to the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office.
Develop and produce written, photographic, video, graphic, and other multimedia content promoting County services, programs, projects, and activities.
Coordinate, develop, and disseminate public information and crisis communications during emergencies and disasters with emergency services, public safety agencies, and governmental partners.
Plan and support community outreach activities, public education campaigns, special events, news conferences, and other public engagement opportunities.
Monitor media coverage, public concerns, and emerging issues; recommend communication strategies and responses to County leadership.
Attend County Council meetings and other official meetings or events as needed to support communications activities.
Assist County departments with internal and external communications, including employee announcements, presentations, public notices, and informational materials.
Maintain communication records, media contacts, and digital assets; assist with public records requests in accordance with applicable laws and County procedures.
Prepare and administer the public information program budget, evaluate communication effectiveness, and recommend improvements to County communication practices.
Perform other related duties in support of Georgetown County Government’s mission, operations, and objectives.