Public Information Officer (PIO)

Public Information Officer (PIO)

Hiring Range $66,393 - $91,291 per year

Prior related experience and internal equity factors will be considered when determining

the final salary offered to the selected candidate.

Required: Please click here to view a list of automatic disqualifiers for this position

Position Overview
The Public Information Officer serves as the primary spokesperson and media liaison for the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office. This position is responsible for communicating timely, accurate, and transparent information to the public, media outlets, and community stakeholders while safeguarding sensitive investigations and departmental integrity.

Essential Functions

• Serves as the official spokesperson for the agency during routine operations, critical incidents, and major events.
• Drafts and distributes press releases, statements, and social media updates in a timely and professional manner.
• Plans and conducts press conferences, interviews, and public briefings.
• Maintains positive working relationships with media representatives, community leaders, and partner agencies.
• Develops and implements communication strategies to enhance public trust and understanding of agency operations.
• Monitors and responds to media inquiries and public concerns, ensuring accurate and consistent messaging.
• Oversees Sheriff’s Office social media platforms, ensuring content is factual, engaging, and compliant with legal/privacy guidelines.
• Provides media training and communication guidance to command staff and personnel.
• Assists in crisis management by delivering clear, calming, and informative messaging during emergencies.
• Ensures compliance with Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), privacy laws, and departmental policies.

• Exceptional Communication Skills: Clear and confident in writing, public speaking, and media engagement.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Maintains credibility and public trust while safeguarding sensitive information.
• Calm Under Pressure: Performs effectively during high-stress incidents and critical events.
• Strong Judgment & Discretion: Balances transparency with operational security and legal considerations.
• Crisis Communication Expertise: Capable of rapid, accurate messaging during unfolding incidents.
• Relationship Builder: Skilled at developing partnerships with media outlets, community members, and internal staff.
• Social Media Proficiency: Knowledgeable in managing digital platforms and monitoring online engagement.
• Strategic Thinker: Anticipates public perception and media impact when crafting messages.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Background in public relations, journalism, law enforcement, or communications.
• Familiarity with photography, video production, or graphic design for multimedia outreach.
• Knowledge of local government operations and law enforcement procedures.

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor's Degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Public Administration, or a related field, and 4 years of experience preferably working with communication or public relations in the public sector or with a local government.

Special Requirements

Due to the 24/7 nature of critical/emergent public safety events this position requires the ability to respond after hours as needed.

Possession of a driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The selected candidate must successfully complete interview, polygraph examination, full background investigation to include a criminal history check, pre-employment alcohol & controlled substance testing.

Salary : $66,393 - $91,291