Public Information Director II - 60024028

About the role

The mission of the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) is to serve students, support teachers, empower parents, and engage the community so that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential. Job Purpose: The Public Information Officer serves as the agency's chief media relations professional and primary liaison to the South Carolina press corps. This position is responsible for developing and maintaining productive relationships with journalists, responding to media inquiries, coordinating press outreach, managing social media strategy and accounts, and proactively telling the agency's story to the public. The Public Information Officer serves as a trusted communications advisor, helping translate complex policies, programs, and initiatives into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Manage media relations as directed by the State Superintendent or supervisor.
• Work with print and broadcast journalists to communicate SCDE policy and vision.
• Respond to media queries.
• Arrange media interviews as directed.
• Write and distribute press advisories and releases.
• Lead and execute strategic media relations, social media, visual storytelling, and public communications initiatives.
• Develop clear and compelling messaging on complex education and public policy issues.
• Monitor and analyze media coverage and emerging trends.
• Collaborate across divisions to ensure consistent agency messaging and long-range communications planning.
• Produce and manage content for traditional, digital, and social media platforms.
• Coordinate photo, video, and multimedia coverage of agency events and campaigns.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.
• Manage sensitive issues with sound judgement and discretion.
• Perform other duties as assigned by agency leadership.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree and relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, English, Political Science, or a related field.
• At least three (3) years of professional experience in journalism, news reporting, public information, public relations, communications, media relations, or a closely related field.
• Experience working in newsroom environment, including print, television, radio, or digital journalism, is strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children.
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year.
• 15 days sick leave per year.
• 13 paid holidays.
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs.
• Generous paid time off.
• Preeminent health care benefits.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Pension.
• 401(k).

Schedule

Hybrid work schedule with opportunity for remote work.