Position : Public Information Officer (PIO)
Reports to : Town Manager
Department : Town Administration
Emergency Classification : Essential
FLSA Classification : Exempt
Pay Grade : 114
The Town of Fort Myers Beach is seeking a dynamic and creative Public Information Officer (PIO) to join our team! This position plays a vital role in connecting the Town with its residents, businesses, and visitors through strategic communication, media relations, and community engagement. The ideal candidate will bring innovative ideas, strong digital skills, and a passion for public service to help proactively tell the story of our resilient and vibrant island community.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Offers a Competitive Benefits Package!
Health & Wellness : Comprehensive health insurance with low deductibles and annual maximums. The Town covers 100% of employee premiums and 50% of dependent premiums. Benefits also include employer-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, gym membership reimbursement, and more.
Work / Life Balance : Employees accrue 16 hours of paid leave monthly, plus 1 sick day and a birthday holiday annually. The Town observes 14 paid holidays and offers flexible scheduling options to promote work-life balance.
Retirement Planning : Immediate vesting in a 401(a) / 457(b) pension plan with employer contributions-employees are vested from day one of employment.
And More!
If this opportunity aligns with your qualifications and career goals, we invite you to review the position description below and apply today to be part of the Town of Fort Myers Beach team!
Position Summary
Under the direction of the Town Manager, the Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for developing, coordinating, and managing the Town's public information, media relations, and community outreach efforts. The PIO ensures that accurate, timely, and consistent information is shared with residents, visitors, businesses, and the media through various communication channels. This position plays a key role in maintaining transparency, promoting public awareness of Town programs and services, and strengthening engagement between the Town and the community. The PIO also coordinates communications before, during, and after emergency events, ensuring the public receives reliable and effective information to support safety and preparedness efforts.
Responsibilities and Reporting During an Emergency Situation : If assigned, employees in this classification will be required to report and carry out duties as directed for the duration of an emergency. Depending on the nature of the emergency, this may require working around the clock for several days on short notice.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Digital and Marketing Communications
- Manage the Town's website and social media platforms, ensuring information is current, engaging, accurate, and accessible.
- Lead branding and content development to present a cohesive, professional public image across all communication materials.
- Develop visual and written content, including brochures, flyers, videos, and public service announcements.
- Use analytics and feedback to measure engagement and refine outreach strategies.
Emergency and Crisis Communications
Serve as the primary spokesperson during emergency events, ensuring consistent and coordinated messaging with County, State, and Federal agencies.Manage the Town's emergency communication systems, including resident notification platforms, media advisories, and press conferences.Develop and maintain an Emergency Communication Plan aligned with the Town's Emergency Management framework.Disseminate evacuation orders, recovery updates, and safety information promptly and accurately through multiple channels.Provide crisis communication support and coordinate with emergency responders and leadership to ensure unified messaging.Public Information and Media Relations
Develop and implement a comprehensive communication plan supporting the Town's strategic goals and initiatives.Create and distribute press releases, media advisories, social media updates, and newsletters to promote Town services, events, and accomplishments.Serve as the Town's media liaison, cultivating positive relationships with local, regional, and national outlets.Prepare and deliver talking points, speeches, and statements on behalf of the Town Manager, Mayor, and Council.Manage public messaging to maintain transparency and foster public trust.Community Engagement and Education
Develop innovative ways to engage and educate residents about Town operations, services, and decision-making processes.Coordinate marketing and outreach efforts for all Town departments and facilities, including parks, utilities, beach operations, and public events.Organize and host public outreach campaigns, town hall meetings, and community events to encourage civic participation.Capture photos, videos, and stories that highlight the Town's resilience, environmental stewardship, and quality of life.Administrative and Collaborative Duties
Work collaboratively with Department Directors to ensure messaging consistency across Town operations.Prepare and manage the communications budget, ensuring efficient use of resources for outreach, media, and advertising initiatives.Provide communication support to the Town Council and staff for public meetings, announcements, and special projects.Maintain media archives, communication records, and documentation for public records compliance.Other Duties
Attend assigned meetings, community functions, and events, including those occurring after-hours or on weekends.Performs emergency response tasks and assignments as directed.Performs all other duties as assigned.(These essential job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties performed. Employees will be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned.)
REQUIREMENTS :
Education, Certification, and Experience :
Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in public relations, communications, or a similar role, preferably in a government or municipal setting.FEMA Public Information Officer (PIO) Certification or ability to obtain certification within 6 months of employment.Must possess and maintain a valid FL driver's license.Relevant work experience may substitute on a year for year basis for education requirements.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :
Knowledge
In-depth understanding of effective communication strategies, public relations practices, and media engagement, particularly in a government setting.Strong knowledge of social media platforms, content management systems, IT systems, and public relations best practices.Expertise in managing websites, social media platforms, and digital communication tools to effectively disseminate information to the public.Strong understanding of branding principles and maintaining a consistent voice across all communications.Familiarity with the structure, functions, and processes of local government, including public policy, community relations, and emergency communication protocols.Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and compliance requirements relevant to communications, public relations, and IT services.Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, network management, cybersecurity best practices, graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite), and website management platforms.Skills
Skilled in developing and executing comprehensive communication and media strategies that align with organizational goals.Skilled in capturing and creating media content (photos, videos, etc.) to showcase Town projects, events, and services.Skilled in producing clear, concise, and engaging written and verbal communications across multiple platforms.Skilled in managing complex projects-such as media campaigns or IT upgrades-from planning through completion while meeting deadlines.Skilled in developing engaging multimedia content (written, visual, and video) to highlight Town initiatives, services, and events.Skilled in managing public messaging during emergencies or sensitive situations to ensure accurate and timely information dissemination.Skilled in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and applying sound judgment in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations.Skilled in using ethical and financial principles to budget and manage resources for communications and IT operations.Skilled in applying motivational and leadership techniques to influence and coordinate team efforts.Abilities
Ability to craft and execute long-term communication strategies that align with the Town's mission and enhance its public image.Ability to manage multiple communication channels, IT needs, and projects simultaneously while prioritizing tasks based on organizational needs.Ability to lead individuals and teams to successfully complete objectives and deliver high-quality outcomes.Ability to work independently and collaboratively with team members to maximize efficiency and productivity.Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with Town staff, residents, stakeholders, and media outlets to foster trust and transparency.Ability to respond promptly and professionally to crisis situations and manage public relations during emergencies.Ability to read, interpret, and analyze complex materials and data to inform communication strategies.Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with employees, residents, contractors, and other external partners.Physical Requirements :
Physical Activity : Tasks may require standing, bending, stooping, stretching, and walking, along with occasional moderate lifting (up to 20 pounds). Standard dexterity is needed for operating office or multimedia equipment.Prolonged Desk Work : This role involves extended periods of sitting and working at a desk, using a computer and keyboard for content creation and communication tasks.Mobility : Ability to walk, stand, and move across varying terrains such as sand, beach areas, construction sites, and uneven surfaces to document and report on Town events and initiatives.Environmental Requirements :
Work Environment : Primarily indoor office setting with frequent use of standard office equipment (computers, phones, etc.).Outdoor Responsibilities : Occasional work outdoors, including in adverse weather conditions, to capture Town events, projects, and activities. This may involve exposure to extreme heat, cold, rain, or other weather elements.Physical Requirements : Ability to walk, stand, or move across varying terrain such as sand, beach areas, construction sites, and uneven surfaces to document and report on Town initiatives.Emergency Situations : May be required to respond to emergencies or urgent communications needs outside of regular business hours, including in challenging environmental conditions.Sensory Requirements :
Task requires sound perception and discrimination.Task requires visual perception and discrimination.Task requires oral communications ability.The Town of Fort Myers Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drugfree Workplace.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach provides Veterans' Preference in employment for eligible veterans, spouses of veterans, and qualifying family members, in accordance with the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs guidelines.
How to Claim Veterans' Preference :
Notify Human Resources at to request Veterans' Preference at the time of application.Obtain the Veterans' Preference Form, which will be provided by Human Resources, and indicate your eligibility.Submit the required documentation (e.g., DD-214 form, VA disability letter, or applicable spouse documentation) along with your completed application.If you require assistance or have questions about this process, please contact Human Resources at (239) 896-4284 or .
Employment at the Town of Fort Myers Beach is contingent upon your successful completion of the following :
Pre-employment drug screening, pursuant to the Drug-Free / Alcohol-Free Employment Policy as outlined in the Town's Employee Handbook adopted by Council effective January 2022 .General background verification.
