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  • Public Information & Communications Officer - Limited Term

    County of San Mateo, California United States County of San Mateo, CA Temporary $11,705.20 - $14,625.87 Monthly May 01, 2026
    County of San Mateo Human Resources Department Employer:

    County of San Mateo, CA

    San Mateo County government protects and enhances the health, safety, welfare, and natural resources of the community, and provides quality services that benefit and enrich the lives of the people of this community.We are committed to: The highest standards of public service A common vision of responsiveness The highest standards of ethical conduct Treating people with respect and dignity San Mateo County is located in the scenic San Francisco Bay Area. The County’s diverse population has approximately 750,000 residents, growing to over one million in daytime population. San Mateo County provides the benefits of a temperate climate and clean air, with abundant ocean sports and recreational activities. Rural open space areas, as well as metropolitan San Francisco, are within easy reach. San Mateo County government has a budget of $2.4 billion, with a workforce of over 5,400 employees in 22 departments and agencies. San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer  

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    Description

    The County of San Mateo Parks Department is seeking a strategic, creative, and community-centered communications professional to lead public information, media relations, storytelling, outreach, and community engagement efforts for one of the Bay Area's largest and most visited park systems, serving nearly 3 million visitors annually.

    This position plays a critical role in strengthening internal and external communications, building public trust, supporting transparent engagement, and connecting diverse communities to parks, trails, programs, projects, and services across more than 16,000 acres of parkland and nearly 240 miles of trails.

    The Public Information and Communications Officer will lead strategic communications, public information, and community engagement efforts for the Parks Department, including public outreach related to park operations, emergency events, capital projects, environmental stewardship, recreational programming, and community partnerships. Reporting directly to the Parks Director, the Public Information and Communications Officer serves as a key member of the department's leadership team and plays a central role in shaping internal and external communications strategies for the department.

    This position requires occasional evening and weekend availability to support community meetings, special events, emergency communications, and operational incidents. This position is primarily in-person and requires regular onsite presence throughout the County to support operational coordination, community engagement, media response, and departmental initiatives.

    The ideal candidate is an excellent writer and relationship-builder who can navigate fast-moving issues, support executive leadership, respond to media inquiries, create compelling public-facing content, and develop inclusive outreach strategies that reflect the County's diverse communities.

    ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    The Public Information & Communications Officer will:
    • Develop and implement strategic communication and outreach plans aligned with departmental priorities and community needs
    • Design and execute targeted outreach, engagement, and marketing strategies using data, feedback, and performance metrics to inform decision-making
    • Pivot communication strategies and messaging in response to emerging issues, public feedback, emergencies, weather events, wildfire mitigation activities, trail closures, and operational priorities
    • Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries, public information requests, and sensitive public-facing communications
    • Draft and coordinate press releases, media statements, talking points, executive messaging, newsletters, and public communications
    • Support emergency and crisis communications related to wildfire mitigation, winter storms, public safety incidents, environmental issues, and park operations
    • Build inclusive communications and outreach plans that effectively reach multilingual, multicultural, and historically underrepresented communities
    • Promote Park's engagement through innovative campaigns, storytelling, events, challenges, newsletters, interpretive programming, and community partnerships
    • Collaborate with departmental leadership, partner agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders to align messaging and engagement goals
    • Provide strategic direction and creative vision for digital, visual, and graphic design and communications, including supervision and coordination of communications support staff and consultants
    • Analyze communication and engagement data to evaluate effectiveness and continuously improve outreach strategies
    • Strengthen internal communications and employee engagement across the department
    • Ensure digital communications, public-facing materials, and online platforms align with ADA accessibility standards and inclusive communication best practices
    • Oversee the development and coordination of brochures, informational materials, signage content, presentations, and outreach collateral that support departmental goals and community engagement
    • Provide strategic direction for visual communications to ensure messaging, branding, accessibility, and audience needs are effectively integrated across platforms and materials
    • Develop and evaluate communication strategies that increase community participation, public awareness, transparency, trust, and meaningful public engagement
    • Provide strategic direction and creative vision for digital, visual, and graphic design and communications, including supervision and coordination of communications support staff (i.e. Graphic Specialist) and consultants
    • Work closely with Park Rangers, the Interpretive Team, Natural Resource Team, operational staff, and departmental leadership to support public education, storytelling, visitor engagement, emergency communications, and community outreach efforts

    IDEAL CANDIDATE

    The ideal candidate understands how to translate departmental priorities into effective communication strategies tailored to diverse audiences and communities. They can shape messaging, guide visual storytelling efforts, and provide creative direction that supports public engagement and outreach goals. Experience supporting communications related to public safety, environmental issues, emergency response, infrastructure projects, or operational impacts is highly desirable. The position requires sound judgment, political awareness, adaptability, and the ability to communicate effectively in fast-moving and highly visible public environments.

    The ideal candidate will possess:
    • A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field
    • Minimum of four (4) years of professional experience in public relations, public information, media relations, digital engagement or strategic communications
    • A track record of developing content for broad audiences through press releases, newsletters, websites, or multi-media campaigns
    • Strong storytelling skills with the ability to connect with diverse audiences
    • Experience developing content across multiple platforms (beyond just social media)
    • Experience supporting communications related to public safety, environmental issues, emergency response, infrastructure projects, or operational impacts is highly desirable
    • Knowledge of branding, marketing, and digital communications strategies
    • Ability to create inclusive, culturally responsive messaging
    • Experience with video content (e.g., reels) and visual storytelling
    • Strong writing skills, including articles and public-facing communications
    • Bilingual or multilingual skills are highly desirable


    Note: This is a limited term assignment. Limited term employees are assigned to assignments not to exceed three (3) years. The selected candidate will receive medical and dental benefits similar to regular employees, and a defined contribution retirement plan. This recruitment may be used to fill future limited term positions.

    Qualifications

    Knowledge of:

    • Administrative principles and practices, including goal setting, program development, implementation, and evaluation.
    • Public agency contract administration, County-wide administrative practices, and general principles of risk management related to the functions of the assigned area.
    • Organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of projects, programs, policies, procedures, and operational needs.
    • Principles and practices of public information, media relations, and community outreach project and program development.
    • Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.
    • Methods and techniques for the development of press releases, talking points, newsletters, presentations, business correspondence, and information distribution; research and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures.
    • Record keeping principles and procedures.
    • Modern office practices, methods, computer equipment, and applications related to the work.
    • English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
    • Techniques for effectively representing the County in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
    • Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
    Skills/Ability to:

    • Develop and implement goals, objectives, policies, procedures, work standards, and internal controls for assigned department.
    • Provide professional leadership and direction in managing department-specific communication strategies, media relations, and campaigns.
    • Conceptualize messages and effectively communicate in writing, speech, and other methods of communication.
    • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with reporters, editors, and other media representatives.
    • Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
    • Effectively represent assigned department in committees and meetings with stakeholders and the community.
    • Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, policies, procedures, and other written materials.
    • Conduct complex research projects, evaluate alternatives, make sound recommendations, and prepare effective technical staff reports.
    • Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
    • Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and specialized software applications programs.
    • Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.
    • Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
    • Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

    Education and Experience:
    Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. A typical way of gaining the knowledge and skills is equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public relations, communications, journalism, business or public administration, or a related field and five (5) years of management experience in public affairs, media relations, or related area.

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS
    Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, to operate a motor vehicle, and to visit various County and meeting sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

    ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
    Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

    Application/Examination
    This is a limited term recruitment. Anyone may apply . A supplemental application form must be submitted in addition to our regular employment application form. The Parks Department will screen materials after the recruitment closes. The department will contact qualified candidates directly for a departmental interview.

    All applicants who meet the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the examination. Applicants may be asked to participate in a pre-interview exercise demonstrating storytelling and outreach approach. All examinations will be conducted virtually or in person and applicants must participate at their own expense.

    IMPORTANT: Applications for this position will only be accepted online. If you are currently on the County's website, you may click the " Apply " button. If you are not on the County's website, please go to http s ://jobs.smcgov.org to apply . Online applications must be received by the Human Resources Department before midnight on the final filing date.

    TENTATIVE RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE
    Final Filing Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST
    Departmental Interviews:     TBD

    About the County

    San Mateo County is centrally located between San Francisco, San Jose, and the East Bay. With over 750,000 residents, San Mateo is one of the largest and most diverse counties in California and serves a multitude of culturally, ethnically, and linguistically diverse communities.

    The County of San Mateo, as an employer, is committed to advancing equity to ensure that all employees are welcomed in a safe and inclusive environment. The County seeks to hire, support, and retain employees who reflect our diverse community. We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply. Eighty percent of employees surveyed stated that they would recommend the County as a great place to work.


    The County of San Mateo is an equal opportunity employer. We seek to hire, support, and retain employees who reflect our diverse community.



    HR Analyst: Arlene Cahill (Communications Officer - D105)

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    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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The Ins and Outs of Government PR Jobs - And Why It's Worth It To Consider One

The Ins and Outs of Government PR Jobs - And Why It's Worth It To Consider One
 

Introduction

Picture this: you're a skilled communicator with a knack for crafting compelling messages and a deep desire to make a difference in your community. You've considered various career paths, but the idea of working in government PR keeps nagging at you. You're intrigued by the opportunity to shape public perception, inform citizens, and contribute to the greater good, but you're not quite sure what a government PR job entails or if it's the right fit for you.

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Sound familiar? If so, you've come to the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the world of government PR jobs, exploring the key responsibilities, necessary skills, and potential career growth opportunities within this dynamic field.

We'll paint a vivid picture of what it's like to work as a government PR professional, from the day-to-day tasks to the challenges and rewards that come with the territory.

But here's the thing: a government PR job isn't for everyone. It requires a unique combination of strategic thinking, adaptability, and a thick skin. You'll need to navigate complex bureaucracies, juggle competing priorities, and sometimes face public scrutiny. But if you're up for the challenge, a career in government PR can be incredibly fulfilling.

 

Roles and Responsibilities

When you step into a government PR job, you'll quickly realize that no two days are the same. Your role will be multifaceted, challenging, and always keeps you on your toes. At its core, your primary responsibility will be to manage the public image and reputation of the government agency or official you represent. But what does that actually entail? Let's break it down.

Crafting Compelling Communications

One of your key duties will be developing and implementing communication strategies that effectively convey your agency's mission, goals, and initiatives to the public. This means you'll need to have a deep understanding of your target audience and craft messages that resonate with them. You'll be the mastermind behind press releases, speeches, social media posts, and other public-facing content, ensuring that all communications are clear, concise, and on-brand.

Managing Media Relations and Crisis Communications

But your job doesn't stop there. As a government PR professional, you'll also be the go-to person for media inquiries and crisis communications. When reporters come knocking with tough questions or a scandal erupts, you'll need to think on your feet and develop strategic responses that mitigate damage and maintain public trust. It's a high-pressure role that requires a cool head and a quick wit.

Engaging the Public Through Outreach and Events

In addition to reactive tasks, you'll also be proactive in your approach to PR. This means organizing press conferences, public events, and community outreach initiatives that showcase your agency's work and engage citizens in meaningful ways. You'll be the bridge between your agency and the public, fostering relationships and building trust through open and transparent communication.

Collaborating with Stakeholders and Subject Matter Experts

Of course, all of this work doesn't happen in a vacuum. As a government PR professional, you'll collaborate closely with agency leaders, subject matter experts, and other stakeholders to ensure that all communications are accurate, timely, and aligned with your agency's goals. You'll need to be a master negotiator, able to balance competing priorities and find common ground among diverse perspectives.

 

Required Skills and Qualifications

So, you're intrigued by the idea of a government PR job, but you're not sure if you have what it takes to succeed in this dynamic field. Don't worry – we've got you covered. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the agency and position, there are certain skills and qualifications that are essential for any government PR professional. Let's take a closer look.

Excellent Communication Skills

First and foremost, you'll need to be an exceptional communicator. This means having the ability to write clear, concise, and compelling content across a variety of mediums – from press releases and speeches to social media posts and website copy. You'll also need to be an articulate and confident speaker, able to deliver messages effectively in front of cameras, reporters, and public audiences.

Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving Abilities

But being a great communicator isn't enough – you'll also need to be a strategic thinker and problem solver. Government PR professionals are often faced with complex challenges that require creative solutions and the ability to think on their feet. You'll need to be able to analyze situations quickly, identify potential risks and opportunities, and develop strategic approaches that achieve desired outcomes.

Relationship Building and Interpersonal Skills

Another key skill for government PR professionals is the ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders – from media contacts and community leaders to agency staff and elected officials. You'll need to be able to navigate complex bureaucracies, build trust and credibility with diverse audiences, and foster collaborations that advance your agency's goals.

Adaptability and Resilience

In the fast-paced world of government PR, things can change at a moment's notice. You'll need to be adaptable and resilient, able to pivot quickly when priorities shift or crises emerge. This means being able to work well under pressure, manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously, and maintain a positive attitude even in the face of adversity.

Knowledge of Government Processes and Policies

Having a solid understanding of government processes and policies is essential for success in a government PR job. You'll need to be familiar with the workings of your agency, the legislative and regulatory environment in which it operates, and the key issues and challenges facing your community. This knowledge will enable you to craft effective messages, anticipate potential roadblocks, and navigate the complex landscape of government communications.

While this may seem like a daunting list of requirements, don't let it discourage you. Many of these skills can be developed over time through a combination of education, training, and on-the-job experience.

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Career Advancement Opportunities

So, you've got your government PR job title and you're excited about the opportunities. But what does the future hold? What kind of career advancement opportunities are available to you? Let's explore some of the paths you might take as you grow and develop in your government PR career.

Progressing to Senior-Level Positions

One of the most common career advancement opportunities in government PR is progressing to senior-level positions within your agency. As you gain experience and demonstrate your skills and leadership abilities, you may be promoted to roles such as Senior Communications Specialist, Communications Director, or Public Affairs Specialist. These positions typically require demonstrated ability of strategy development, team management, and high-level decision-making.

Specializing in a Particular Area of PR

Another way to advance your career in government PR is to specialize in a particular area of communications. For example, you might focus on digital communications and social media, or you might develop expertise in crisis communications and emergency response. By becoming a subject matter expert in a specific area, you can position yourself as a valuable resource to your agency and open up new opportunities for growth and advancement.

Transitioning to a Different Agency or Department

In some cases, career advancement in government PR may involve transitioning to a different agency or department. You might seek out opportunities to work in a larger or more high-profile agency, or you might be interested in exploring a different area of government, such as education, healthcare, or environmental protection. By bringing your skills and experience to a new agency, you can broaden your professional network, take on new challenges, and continue to grow in your career.

Pursuing Leadership Roles in Professional Organizations

Outside of your day-to-day job, you can also advance your career by taking on leadership roles in professional organizations related to government PR. For example, you might serve on the board of the National Association of Government Communicators or lead a committee for the Public Relations Society of America. These roles can help you build your professional reputation, develop new skills, and make valuable connections with other PR professionals across the country.

Transitioning to the Private Sector

Some government PR professionals choose to advance their careers by transitioning to the private sector. The skills and experience you gain in government PR – such as strategic communication, media relations, and crisis management – are highly transferable to the corporate world. You might seek out PR positions with companies that have a strong public affairs or government relations focus, or you might start your own PR consulting firm that specializes in serving government clients.

Regardless of the path you choose, the key to career advancement in government PR is to continually develop your skills, build your professional network, and seek out new challenges and opportunities. By staying proactive and strategic in your career development, you can position yourself for long-term success and make a meaningful impact in your community and beyond.

 

Challenges and Rewards

Working in government PR can be a deeply fulfilling career path, but it's not without its challenges. Like any job, there are both rewards and obstacles that come with the territory. Let's take an honest look at what you can expect as a government PR professional.

Challenges

Navigating Bureaucracy and Red Tape

One of the biggest challenges of working in government PR is navigating the complex bureaucracy and red tape that often comes with the job. Government agencies are subject to a wide range of rules, regulations, and approval processes that can slow down decision-making and hinder progress. As a PR professional, you'll need to be patient, persistent, and creative in finding ways to get things done within the system.

Managing Limited Resources and Tight Deadlines

Government agencies are often working with limited budgets and resources, which can make it challenging to execute effective PR campaigns and initiatives. You may need to get creative with your strategies and tactics and find ways to do more with less. Additionally, the fast-paced nature of government means that you'll often be working under tight deadlines and pressure to deliver results quickly.

Adapting to Changing Priorities and Leadership

Finally, government PR professionals need to be adaptable and resilient in the face of changing priorities and leadership. Political administrations come and go, and with each transition can come new directives, initiatives, and messaging. You'll need to be able to change direction and adjust your strategies and tactics to align with the current priorities and goals of your agency and its leaders.

Rewards

Serving the Public Good

Another reward of government PR is the satisfaction of knowing that you're serving the public good. As a public servant, your ultimate goal is to work in the best interests of the people you serve. This can be a powerful motivator and source of pride, knowing that your efforts are contributing to a larger purpose and mission.

Developing Unique and Valuable Skills

Working in government PR also provides opportunities to develop unique and valuable skills that can serve you throughout your career. You'll gain experience in strategic communication, media relations, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement – all skills that are highly transferable to other industries and sectors. You'll also develop a deep understanding of government processes, policies, and issues, which can make you a valuable asset to any organization.

Building a Professional Network and Reputation

Government PR can be a great way to build your professional network and reputation. You'll have the opportunity to work with a wide range of stakeholders – from elected officials and agency leaders to media contacts and community partners. By building strong relationships and demonstrating your expertise and value, you can position yourself for future career opportunities and growth.

While the challenges of government PR can be significant, the rewards are equally powerful. If you're passionate about serving the public good and developing your skills and reputation, a career in government PR may be the perfect fit for you.

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Landing Your First Government PR Job

Gain relevant education and training

Pursuing a degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field can provide a strong foundation for a career in government PR. Consider earning a master's degree in public administration or public policy to deepen your understanding of government processes and issues. Taking courses or workshops in government relations, public affairs, or crisis communication can also help you build specialized knowledge and technical skills.

Gain relevant education and training

Pursuing a degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field can provide a strong foundation for a career in government PR. Consider earning a master's degree in public administration or public policy to deepen your understanding of government processes and issues. Taking courses or workshops in government relations, public affairs, or crisis communication can also help you build specialized knowledge and technical skills.

Build your professional experience

Seeking out internships or entry-level positions in government agencies or nonprofit organizations can provide valuable hands-on experience in government PR. Volunteering for political campaigns or advocacy groups can also help you gain experience in messaging and outreach, while building your professional network. Look for opportunities to write or speak about government issues, such as op-eds or community forums, to demonstrate your expertise and engagement.

Develop your skills and expertise

Honing your writing and editing skills through practice and feedback is essential for success in government PR. Learning to use social media and digital communication tools effectively can also help you reach and engage different audiences. Staying up to date on current events and policy issues related to your areas of interest can help you provide informed and relevant communications.

Network and build relationships

Attending government and public affairs conferences and events can provide opportunities to meet and learn from other professionals in the field. Joining professional organizations like the National Association of Government Communicators or the Public Relations Society of America can also help you build your network and access resources and support. Reaching out to government PR professionals for informational interviews or advice can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Prepare for the hiring process

Familiarizing yourself with the government job application process, which may include exams or assessments, can help you navigate the hiring process more effectively. Practicing your interviewing skills and being prepared to discuss your experience and qualifications with human resources can help you make a strong impression. Being patient and persistent is also important, as the government hiring process can often take longer than the private sector.

Consider alternative paths to government PR

Looking for PR positions with government contractors or consulting firms that serve government clients can provide alternative paths to working in government PR. Considering working in the nonprofit sector on issues that relate to federal government policy or services can also provide relevant experience and exposure. Exploring opportunities in local or state government, which may have more entry-level positions available, can be another way to break into the field.

With persistence, dedication, and a commitment to public service, you can launch a fulfilling career in government PR.

 

Conclusion

If you're a skilled communicator with a passion for making a difference in your community, government PR may be the perfect fit. Government PR and public affairs jobs present the opportunity to inform and engage citizens, promote transparency and accountability, and support initiatives that improve people's lives. It also provides the chance to develop valuable skills, build a strong professional network, and establish a reputation as a trusted and effective communicator.

With dedication, persistence, and a passion for making a difference, you can launch a fulfilling and impactful career in government PR.

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The road ahead may not always be easy, but the opportunity to serve your community and contribute to the greater good is well worth the journey.

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