Performs professional communications and public relations work developing, coordinating, and implementing internal and external communication strategies for the County. Work involves managing media relations, digital communications platforms, public outreach initiatives, and branding efforts to ensure accurate, timely, and transparent dissemination of information regarding County programs, services, initiatives, and policies.

The Public Information Officer works collaboratively with the County Administrator, the Clerk to the Board of Supervisors, County departments, elected officials, media representatives, and the public to promote transparency, strengthen public engagement, and maintain a positive and professional image of County government. Work is performed under general supervision and requires independent judgment, initiative, and discretion.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The following duties are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Communications and Media Relations

Serves as the primary media contact for the County and coordinates responses to media inquiries.
Prepares and distributes press releases, public announcements, newsletters, and other informational materials.
Develops talking points, speeches, presentations, and briefing materials for County leadership and elected officials.
Establishes and maintains positive relationships with media outlets, community organizations, and stakeholders.

Digital Communications

Manages and updates the County’s website to ensure accurate and timely information for the public.
Oversees official County social media accounts and develops content to promote County programs, services, and initiatives.
Produces or coordinates multimedia content including videos, graphics, and photography.
Uses analytics and communication tools to monitor engagement and evaluate effectiveness of outreach strategies.

Public Engagement and Community Relations

Develops and implements public information campaigns to increase awareness of County programs and services.
Assists departments with communication strategies for major initiatives and projects.
Represents the County at community events, public meetings, and civic functions as needed.
Coordinates communications related to public engagement initiatives and community outreach programs.

Board of Supervisors Communications Support

Works collaboratively with the Clerk to the Board of Supervisors to support communication of Board actions, initiatives, and policy decisions.
Assists with preparation and dissemination of public meeting announcements, informational materials, and communications related to Board meetings.
Supports communication efforts related to Board initiatives, public hearings, and community engagement activities.
Assists in communicating Board priorities, actions, and initiatives to the public through digital platforms and media outlets.

Publications and Branding

Oversees the design, production, and distribution of County publications including reports, brochures, newsletters, and promotional materials.
Ensures consistent branding and messaging across County communications and publications.
Coordinates communications and marketing projects with vendors, consultants, and other service providers.

Crisis and Emergency Communications

Assists with the development and implementation of crisis and emergency communication plans.
Provides timely and accurate information to the public and media during emergency situations or major incidents.
Supports County leadership and emergency management personnel in communicating critical information.

Additional Duties

Monitors emerging communications technologies and best practices to improve outreach efforts.
Maintains archives of press releases, publications, and public communications materials.
Performs related work as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, public administration, or a related field, and three to five years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, journalism, or public information work; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience in local government communications is preferred.

Special Qualifications:

Possession of a valid driver’s license.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, or extended hours during emergencies, public meetings, or special events.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of public relations, communications strategy, and media relations practices.
Knowledge of local government operations, policies, and public communication responsibilities.
Skill in writing, editing, and producing a wide variety of communication materials.
Skill in using digital communication platforms including websites, social media, and multimedia tools.
Ability to communicate effectively with elected officials, department heads, employees, media representatives, and the public.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive information appropriately.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with government officials, staff, media, and the public.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as light. Must be able to lift 5-10 pounds. Must be able to operate office and computer equipment; may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Must be able to communicate orally and perceive and discriminate colors or shades of color. Requires the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
This work is generally sedentary and performed in an office environment; however, the position may require attendance at public meetings, community events, and emergency situations. Work may require standing, walking, lifting light objects, and operating standard office equipment.

County of Culpeper jobs

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER