Sheriff Public Information Officer

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan's leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.

When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.

For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:

https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

$81,732- $109,505

Are you a strong communicator who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys working at the center of important public information? As the Public Information Officer for the Oakland County Sheriff's Office, you will serve as the primary point of contact between the Sheriff's Office, the media, and the community, ensuring accurate and timely information is shared during both routine operations and critical incidents.

What You'll Do

• Serve as the central source of information released by the Sheriff's Office.
• Respond to media inquiries and provide information to news outlets on a 24-hour basis.
• Coordinate the release of information related to criminal cases, suspects, and ongoing investigations when authorized.
• Respond to requests for information from community members and external partners.
• Assist during crisis situations by coordinating the release of accurate and approved information.
• Provide command staff with media support and communication guidance during incidents.
• Remain on call during off-duty hours to support media communications for all Sheriff's Office divisions.
• Utilize Countywide and department-specific software systems to complete assignments and manage communications.

Why You'll Love It

• Play a key role in shaping how the Sheriff's Office communicates with the public and media.
• Work in a dynamic environment where communication and transparency are critical.
• Collaborate with command staff and multiple divisions across the Sheriff's Office.
• Help build trust between law enforcement and the community through clear and responsible communication.

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a preferred major in Marketing Communications, Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a closely related field of study.

Have four (4) years of full-time professional work experience in public or private sector public relations, communications, developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies across multiple social media platforms, or a closely related area.

NOTE: A Master's degree in one of the above fields may be substituted for one (1) year of experience required above.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

A background investigation will be conducted covering an evaluation of employment, school, home, criminal, military, or other personal records. Any conviction or convictions for moving traffic violations, accidents, non-moving traffic violations, or violations of other laws will be reviewed by the Sheriff Office before an applicant can be appointed. Information obtained during the background investigation will be considered in the hiring decision. Convictions of the Domestic Violence Statute will be a disqualifying factor.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Identifies, creates, and disseminates the Sheriff's Office newsworthy items to news media locally and nationally when appropriate.

Maintains constant liaison with reporters, editors, and the general news media.

Researches and composes news releases, media materials, and press conference talking points for the Sheriff's Office.

Coordinates the staging of Sheriff's Office news conferences.

Assists the Sheriff's administration in preparing for interviews and provides onsite support for public appearances as needed.

Schedules and notifies the media about the time and place of Sheriff's Office news conferences.

Attends essential press functions, community events, and news events providing information about the Sheriff's Office.

Responds to requests in a timely manner for information about the Sheriff's Office from the news media and the public.

Reviews internal major incidents reports such as road patrol and corrections for possible dissemination to media, Board of Commissioners, or the County Executive.

Plans, writes, produces, and coordinates the information within the Sheriff's Office annual report.

Responds to after-hours calls from medica and Sheriff's Office administration.

Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

ESSENTIAL MENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a typical office environment.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Considerable knowledge of communications, journalism, public relations, news media or related work experience, practices, policies, and procedures, preferably in the municipal or public sector.

Considerable knowledge of the Associate Press (AP) writing style, including copy editing.

Considerable knowledge of contemporary professional principles and practices of public communications.

Considerable ability to research, design and assemble layouts for presentations, programs, and publications, and to prepare written reports in a clear, concise, and effective manner.

Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with public and private organizations and the general public.

Considerable ability to communicate effectively in verbal, written, graphic and visual form, and to speak publicly in front of large groups.

Considerable ability to exercise equitable and mature judgment in analyzing problems and recommending solutions.

Reasonable ability to work under pressure and flexibility while managing numerous projects at one time.

Reasonable ability to utilize current word processing, spreadsheet, database, e-mail, and Internet software.

Additional Minimum Qualifications

Union*

BU79- United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 889: Sheriff Office Non-Supv by Classification (UAW)

• If applicable

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.