Public Information Officer

Public Information Officer (PIO)

The Public Information Officer (PIO) position integrates strategic emergency communications with professional visual design to support the mission of the Nevada Office of Emergency Management (NV OEM). This role is responsible for developing clear, accurate, and visually compelling all-hazard communications that inform government officials, media partners, and the public before, during, and after emergencies and disasters. Under the direction of the Chief Communications Officer, this position designs and produces a wide range of communication materials, including websites, brochures, newsletters, reports, social media graphics, logos, signage, videos, and public service announcements.

The incumbent applies core design principles while adhering to the agency’s branding guide for all materials disseminated to the public, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and visual communications that enhance message clarity, accessibility, and alignment with NV OEM messaging standards. Responsibilities include drafting and revising materials based on stakeholder feedback, ensuring brand compliance and accuracy, and utilizing industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and related multimedia platforms.

This position works collaboratively with the Chief Communications Officer, PIO team, Administrator, Emergency Managers, and agency staff to develop marketing campaigns, storyboards, and outreach strategies that promote NV OEM programs and services. Duties include coordinating and conducting photo and video shoots; producing multimedia content; scheduling and analyzing social media messaging; and researching emerging tools, platforms, and best practices to strengthen public engagement.

During activations and declared emergencies, the PIO/Graphic Artist supports public affairs operations by developing time-sensitive graphics, press materials, PSAs, and digital content; assisting with media coordination and briefings; updating WebEOC and other information-sharing platforms; and ensuring consistent, accurate messaging throughout response and recovery operations. This position requires strong communication skills, creativity, sound judgment, discretion, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in high-tempo environments while maintaining compliance with agency policies and safety standards in both office and field settings.

Using modern communications equipment and social media, Public Information Officers manage the public relations and public information program for an agency on a statewide basis; write media releases, newsletters and informational brochures; produce multi-media presentations and take photographs; design, organize and maintain web platforms.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in journalism, English, public or community relations, communications or closely related field and two years of professional experience in public relations or public information including writing media releases and newsletters, preparing speeches and multimedia presentations; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as described above.

• Experience in creatively designing government products and web design is required.
• Experience / familiarity with the following is required: JIC/JIS Operational Plan, Emergency Preparedness Guide, Emergency Management Accreditation Program, National Response Framework, National Incident Management System, Incident Support Model.

Write news releases, create informational brochures, coordinate and script public service announcements, and research and author articles for publication and/or to inform the public of activities or items of interest; organize, draft and edit material for printing or publication and distribution; evaluate advertising and promotional materials for compatibility with public relations efforts.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with State and local government officials and media representatives; respond to queries and direct questions to appropriate staff; arrange press conferences and notify…