Public Information Officer - Uniformed

Position open to internal employees as well as certified law enforcement and detention officers from external agencies. This is an hourly, non-exempt position. Pay rates are based on education, skill, experience level, and internal equity.

About the role

Acts as primary spokesperson for the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). The role involves writing executive speeches, scripts, and drafting presentations, conducting on-camera interviews, creating social media content, and facilitating press conferences. Responds to critical incidents as needed and collaborates with deputies, detention officers, and command staff to ensure accurate public messaging. Participates in operational briefings and assists the Public Information Manager with developing and maintaining strong relationships with local, state, and national media. Supports recruitment and community outreach initiatives and strategies. Attends events to stay connected with the community, accompany the Sheriff, and assist in capturing videos and photos. Assists the Executive Support Director and Public Information Manager with signing the agency up for parades and events. Serves as a liaison between Community Engagement and Public Information. Contributes to the production of social media content and is savvy in social/digital media operations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for MCSO.
• Write executive speeches, scripts, and draft presentations.
• Conduct on-camera interviews and facilitate press conferences.
• Create and manage social media content.
• Respond to critical incidents as needed.
• Collaborate with deputies, detention officers, and command staff to ensure accurate public messaging.
• Participate in operational briefings.
• Assist the Public Information Manager in developing and maintaining media relationships.
• Support recruitment and community outreach initiatives.
• Attend community events, accompany the Sheriff, and capture videos/photos as needed.
• Assist with signing the agency up for parades and events.
• Serve as a liaison between Community Engagement and Public Information.
• Contribute to social media content production and digital media operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, or a related field.
• Background in digital media and writing.
• Exceptional public speaking and on-camera skills.
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain all required certifications for a Deputy Sheriff or Detention Officer in the State of North Carolina.
• Valid North Carolina or South Carolina driver's license.

Skills

• Public speaking and on-camera presence.
• Strong writing and digital media skills.
• Ability to collaborate with law enforcement and command staff.
• Experience in media relations and community outreach.
• Proficiency in social media and digital content creation.

Pay

Hourly range: $30.45–$40.60. A $7,500 sign-on bonus is available for Deputy Sheriffs or Detention Officers new to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.

Interview Process

As part of the interview process, candidates will be asked to prepare a brief spokesperson exercise. You will receive an information sheet ahead of the interview date and be expected to present a 2–3 minute speech on the topic, simulating a press conference for the media.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.