Public Information Officer

Overview

This is a professional, exempt position responsible for managing public information, media relations, and communications for the Marco Island Police Department while assisting with Citywide communication initiatives. The Public Information Officer (PIO) serves as the primary spokesperson for the Police Department and works collaboratively with the City Manager’s Office and other City departments to ensure accurate, timely, and consistent communication with the public, media, and internal stakeholders.

The position requires discretion, sound judgment, and the ability to respond effectively during routine operations and emergency situations. The following duties are representative of the essential functions of the position and are not intended to be all-inclusive.

• Serves as the official spokesperson for the Marco Island Police Department and assists with Citywide public information efforts as directed.
• Plans, develops, and disseminates public information regarding police operations, crime prevention initiatives, community outreach programs, and special events.
• Prepares and distributes press releases, media advisories, public statements, talking points, and emergency notifications.
• Responds to media inquiries; coordinates interviews, press conferences, and media briefings in accordance with departmental policies and legal requirements.
• Coordinates and supports emergency and crisis communications, including incidents involving public safety threats, disasters, or high-profile events.
• Maintains Police Department content on the City’s website and social media platforms in alignment with City branding and communication standards.
• Collaborates with City departments and Administration to support Citywide announcements, initiatives, and public messaging on City wide social media sites and the City website.
• Develops internal communications for Police Department personnel, including informational updates and announcements.
• Assists with City Council communications related to Police Department and City matters, including reports, presentations, and public-facing materials.
• Monitors media coverage and public sentiment related to police and City operations; provides guidance to command staff and City leadership.
• Ensures compliance with Florida public records laws, sunshine laws, and applicable public safety disclosure requirements.
• Attends meetings, community events, and City Council meetings as required.
• Maintains availability for after-hours, weekend, and emergency response.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Experience:
  
  Three (3) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public information, communications, media relations, or public safety communications.
• Licenses/Clearance:
  Valid Florida driver’s license or ability to obtain one; ability to successfully pass a background investigation appropriate for assignment within the Police Department.

• Knowledge:
  Knowledge of public information, media relations, and crisis communication principles.
• Knowledge:
  Knowledge of law enforcement operations, terminology, and the sensitivity of active investigations.
• Knowledge:
  Knowledge of municipal government operations and public-sector communications.

• Skills/Abilities:
  Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Skills/Abilities:
  Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Skills/Abilities:
  Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality.
• Skills/Abilities:
  Skill in the use of digital communication tools, including website content management and social media platforms.
• Skills/Abilities:
  Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City officials, Police Department personnel, media representatives, and the public.