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Job Description
| PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER, COMMUNICATIONS |
Job Code: 2703
Pay Grade: 019
FLSA Status: Exempt
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| General Functions |
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This position serves as the lead Public Information Officer for Orange County. As Orange County’s primary contact for news media, coordinates with key departments, including planning and code enforcement, and others in Public Information roles throughout the County. Works closely with the Mayor’s leadership team on requests for interviews with the Mayor and the release of information. Proactively anticipates issues and is responsible for the coordination/dissemination of information to media outlets.
Work is performed with considerable independence and the exercise of independent judgment under the supervision of the the Communications Section Manager. |
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| Representative Duties /Assignments |
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Duties may vary based on area of assignment. The following are representative duties, it is not the intent to capture all duties performed by this classification.
- Leads the research, planning, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive communications strategies to ensure consistent and effective public messaging.
- Serves as the County's primary media liaison by proactively pitching stories, preparing news releases and statements, coordinating and participating in interviews, and responding to media inquiries with accuracy and professionalism.
- Manages issues and crisis communications by researching emerging and complex topics involving Orange County, developing subject-matter understanding through curiosity and initiative.
- Prepares easy to understand fact sheets, background materials, and daily tracking of media coverage.
- Builds and sustains strong relationships with reporters, community stakeholders, public interest groups, and County employees to enhance public trust and engagement.
- Provides strategic communications counsel to senior leadership related to issues affecting the County's public image, reputation, and overall communication strategy.
- Collaborates on external communication efforts, traditional and digital, including editorial planning, Board of County Commissioner meetings, media events, social media, and newsroom content.
- Provides media support during emergency operations, serving in a leadership role within Emergency Support Function (ESF) 14 and maintaining compliance with FEMA and state training requirements.
- Provides general media and public relations training to County employees.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
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| Minimum Qualifications |
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Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution in Journalism, Communications, Public or Business Administration, Marketing or closely related field and four (4) years of experience in media relations, managing information, journalism, communication activities or closely related experience. In lieu of the degree requirements, additional relevant experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis. |
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| Preferences |
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Knowledge of Florida Law regarding public records.
Experience conducting on-camera television interviews.
Public relations and communications.
Experience in a government or agency environment.
Possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License from date of hire.
Bilingual in Spanish (professional experience in reading, writing, and translating). |
2/10/2026
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