Job Description

Executive Service

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Department of Safety and Homeland Security

Public Information Office

Nashville, TN

Salary: Compensation is aligned with education, experience, and proficiency, following Department of Human Resources (DOHR) policy.

Closing Date: 10/14/2025

This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you may be required to provide information about your criminal history in order to be considered for this position.

The State of Tennessee offers a comprehensive benefits program to include health, dental, life, vision, and disability insurance programs, paid state holidays, and generous leave benefits. In addition, State of Tennessee employees are eligible for participation in the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System (TCRS).

The mission of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security is to serve, secure, and protect the people of Tennessee. The department is responsible for ensuring the safety and general welfare of the public through the operations of its six primary divisions: Tennessee Highway Patrol, Driver Services, Tennessee Highway Safety Office, Office of Homeland Security, Tennessee Advanced Communications Network (TACN), and Administrative Services. Headquartered in Nashville, the department maintains a strong presence statewide with approximately 2,500 employees working across the state.

Job Overview:

The Department of Safety and Homeland Security seeks a skilled, motivated Public Information Officer (PIO) to support communications efforts across all six agencies under the departments umbrella. The PIO will be responsible for creating, managing, and distributing public-facing content that advances the departments mission of protecting and serving Tennessee communities. This position requires a self-starter with impeccable writing, editing, and media relations skills, as well as the ability to shoot and produce video, manage social media platforms, and deliver creative, effective communication strategies. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, and work collaboratively as part of a team dedicated to public service and transparency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Write, edit, and distribute press releases, media advisories, feature stories, and internal communications.
2. Serve as a point of contact for media inquiries, building and maintaining strong relationships with local, state, and national journalists.
3. Manage and monitor official department social media accounts, ensuring accurate, timely, and engaging content.
4. Shoot, edit, and produce video content to support campaigns, events, and digital storytelling.
5. Collaborate with communications staff across all six agencies to maintain consistency in messaging and brand identity.
6. Assist in planning and executing press conferences, media events, and community outreach initiatives.
7. Provide real-time support during emergencies or crisis situations, ensuring timely and accurate public information.
8. Track and analyze media coverage and social media engagement to inform strategy.
9. Contribute creative ideas for proactive storytelling and highlight the departments programs, personnel, and public safety initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelors degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field (or equivalent experience).
2. 3-5 years of relevant experience in public relations, journalism, or government communications.
3. Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills with attention to AP style.
4. Demonstrated ability to manage media relations and serve as an on-the-record spokesperson.
5. Proficiency with social media platforms, analytics tools, and content scheduling.
6. Experience shooting and editing video with modern digital equipment and software.
7. Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
8. Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
9. Based in Nashville, TN.

To apply, submit a cover letter and resume reflecting education and specific positions held, including information relative to the qualifications listed above. Please also provide a link to a website that showcases your work (e.g., resume tape or reel).

Pursuant to the State of Tennessee's Workplace Discrimination and Harassment policy, the State is firmly committed to the principle of fair and equal employment opportunities for its citizens and strives to protect the rights and opportunities of all people to seek, obtain, and hold employment without being subjected to illegal discrimination and harassment in the workplace. It is the State's policy to provide an environment free of discrimination and harassment of an individual because of that person's race, color, national origin, age (40 and over), sex, pregnancy, religion, creed, disability, veteran's status or any other category protected by state and/or federal civil rights laws.

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