NEOGOV · 3 months ago
Public Information Officer (PIO)
Stafford County, VA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
$66K/yr - $91K/yr
4+ years expNEOGOV is looking for a Public Information Officer (PIO) to serve as the primary spokesperson and media liaison for the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office. The role involves communicating accurate information to the public and media while maintaining the integrity of sensitive investigations.
GovTechHuman ResourcesInformation TechnologySoftware
Responsibilities
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
Qualification
Required
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
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
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
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
Company
NEOGOV
NEOGOV is the leading provider of workforce management software uniquely designed for the public sector, education, and public safety.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$700MKey Investors
Warburg Pincus
2025-07-28Secondary Market· $700M
2025-07-28Acquired
2021-06-02Private Equity
Leadership Team
Shane Evangelist
CEO
Brandon McDonald
Head Of Marketing
Recent News
Canada NewsWire
2025-11-14
2025-11-14
Government Technology US
2025-10-31
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