Police Public Information Officer (Sworn)

Salary: $71,664.00 - $130,601.00 Annually Location : 65 Plaza Street Leesburg, VA Job Type: RFT Job Number: 01134 Department: Leesburg Police Opening Date: 12/12/2024 Closing Date: 1/6/2025 11:59 PM Eastern Nature Of Work Under the supervision of the Manager of Public Information and Community Engagement, the Police Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for executing the department's communications strategy and acting as a liaison between the police department, the media, and the public. Works as part of a team to respond to media inquiries on routine, emergency, sensitive, and controversial matters; coordinates news conferences; develops and issues news releases, fact sheets, and other informational materials; serves as a resource for and assists the Police Department with media inquiries; monitors news coverage of Town and police activities, programs, policies, and actions; maintains news clipping file; serves as one of the department's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officers. Key responsibilities include crafting press releases, social media posts, and official statements that reflect the department's mission, vision and core values. Works closely with the Manager of Public Information and Community Engagement to develop communication strategies that address both ongoing and emerging issues. In high-stakes or emergency situations, may be required to provide on-scene media updates and live broadcasts, ensuring that information is timely and accurately reflects the department's objectives and meet legal requirements. Works collaboratively with other departmental units and community stakeholders to align messaging across all platforms, aiming to foster positive relationships and promote public safety initiatives. As a sworn officer, this position brings law enforcement expertise to public communication efforts, ensuring that statements are accurate, lawful, and support operational integrity. Also assists the Manager of Public Information and Community Engagement with training department staff in effective media relations and communication best practices, reinforcing a culture of openness and transparency. This is a regular full-time position (40 hours per week) with benefits. This position's typical work schedule is Monday - Friday, 8am-4pm. This position is subject to callout during non-duty hours, to include holidays, special events and/or emergencies. The selected candidate will join a Virginia accredited law enforcement agency that emphasizes the philosophies of community policing and provides proactive crime prevention programs. Leesburg, hometown of the 21st century, is located 35 miles west of the nation's capital and enjoys vibrant and authentic community with a population of more than 50,000 residents. The Town strongly encourages innovation, promotes career development, and offers excellent benefits to employees, including membership to the Town's full-service recreation center, retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System and Nationwide, affordable health insurance, and numerous other fringe benefits. Required Qualifications Graduation from high school or GED equivalent. Virginia DCJS certified law enforcement officer with knowledge of police practices and policies. Minimum of five (5) years of law enforcement experience. Possession of a valid driver's license and a safe driving record. Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure, fast-paced situations. Must comply with the department's take-home vehicle policy and General Order 122 Standby eligibility requirements by residing within 30 straight line miles of police headquarters. Must be available for rotating on-call duties and callouts during emergencies and critical incidents. This position may occasionally require working irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Appointments to positions in the Police Department are subject to meeting established polygraph and background standards. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in journalism, public relations, advertising or a related field. Completed Public Information Officer Awareness, Basic Public Information Officer and Advanced Public Information Officer training through FEMA / National Disaster & Emergency Management University. Prior experience with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Prior experience as a law enforcement public information officer. Prior experience in media relations or public relations. Bilingual in English/Spanish. Compensation and Benefits The Town of Leesburg is committed to providing competitive compensation and benefits, and opportunities to grow one's career, all while making a significant impact on the operations and quality of life in a thriving community. The Town offers competitive compensation, affordable health insurance coverage, participation in the Virginia Retirement System, an optional 457(b) retirement plan with a Town matching contribution, flexible spending accounts, voluntary benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), membership to the Town's full-service recreation center, an optional payroll Roth IRA, and generous paid time off. For more information on the Town's robust benefits package, please visit the Town's Employee Benefits page EOE/ADA. Please click on " Employee Benefits " to review detailed information regarding employee benefits for regular full-time and regular part-time employees. 01 Are you currently a certified police officer in the Commonwealth of Virginia? Yes No Required Question