Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Posting: Public Information Officer (PIO)

Location: O'Fallon, Missouri
Department: Police Department
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Application Deadline: 12/28/2025

The City of O'Fallon Police Department is seeking a dynamic and experienced Public Information Officer (PIO) to serve as the primary spokesperson and media liaison. This role is vital in fostering transparency, building community trust, and promoting public safety through strategic communication. The PIO will lead the department's media relations, manage social media platforms, and ensure timely, accurate dissemination of information during both routine operations and critical incidents.

• Monitor news and media coverage relevant to law enforcement.
• Respond to media inquiries with professionalism and accuracy.
• Draft and distribute press releases, advisories, and official statements.
• Manage and update social media platforms (Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, Nextdoor).
• Track public sentiment and address misinformation.
• Prepare talking points and briefings for department leadership.
• Build and maintain relationships with media and community stakeholders.

• Act as spokesperson during critical incidents.
• Coordinate press conferences and emergency communications.
• Ensure legal compliance in all public communications.
• Provide timely updates to manage public perception.

• Develop strategies to enhance public trust and engagement.
• Promote safety programs and community initiatives.
• Create newsletters, blog posts, and feature articles.
• Coordinate media coverage for events and outreach efforts.
• Collaborate with civic organizations and other PIOs.

• Produce internal communications and retiree newsletters.
• Support leadership with speechwriting and presentations.
• Provide media training to staff as needed.

• Implement long-term communication and branding strategies.
• Analyze media engagement and effectiveness.
• Maintain organized archives of communications.
• Ensure compliance with public records laws.
• Liaise with city/county communications teams.

• Create public safety campaign materials (videos, PSAs, brochures).
• Oversee website updates and accessibility.
• Advise on communication strategies based on public sentiment.
• Support recruitment campaigns.
• Manage sensitive communications related to legal or policy matters.

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business Administration, or related field (strongly preferred).
• 3-5 years of experience in public/media relations, journalism, or communications-preferably in law enforcement or public safety.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Experience in crisis communications and serving as a spokesperson.
• Proficiency in digital media management and content creation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver clear messaging during crises.
• Knowledge of public records laws and ethical communication practices.
• Valid Missouri driver's license or ability to obtain one.

• Skilled in AP-style writing and public speaking.
• Strong judgment and discretion in handling sensitive information.
• Ability to translate complex law enforcement topics into public-friendly language.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and community-focused.
• Proficient in managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

The City of O'Fallon values its employees and their wellbeing.

Our benefits package includes comprehensive insurance and wellness programs such as:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Employer-paid Accident and Life Insurance
• Optional Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Optional Pet Insurance
• Reward-based wellness incentives
• Onsite workout facilities
• Discounted membership at Renaud Fitness/Aquatic Center
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Identity-Theft Protection

To promote work-life balance, paid leave benefits include:

• 3 weeks of vacation for new hires
• 11 holidays plus 1 personal holiday
• Sick leave and extended illness leave for self or family care
• Designated, fully furnished Zen and lactation rooms in select facilities

The City of O'Fallon participates in the Missouri LAGERS L-6 Pension Plan and offers 457(b) Retirement Plans . We are committed to continued employee growth and offer tuition reimbursement to support professional development.

The City of O'Fallon is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify.

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