Public Relations Specialist I 2026-01403

Open Until Filled

General Description
The Public Information Officer role is responsible for managing communications for Wyoming State Forestry. This position will help develop and maintain the Wyoming State Forestry's website and support social media communications, including releasing accurate and timely information to the public and media. The Public Information Officer acts as the main point of contact for media inquiries, manages public communications during wildland fire incidents, and may be responsible for developing a budget.

Compensation
Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Total compensation package includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays; retirement (Pension and 457B plans); meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities; and more.

Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary? Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: https://compensationcalculator.wyo.gov

Responsibilities

Serve as a point of contact for media, issue press releases, coordinate press conferences, and respond to media inquiries.

Prepare official statements and take points; assist in developing and administering a program budget.

Distribute accurate and timely information to the public.

Coordinate with other divisions, agencies, and branches of state government to ensure unified messaging and increase public understanding by delivering timely and reliable updates.

Develop and implement communication strategies and campaigns; monitor public perception and adjust messaging accordingly; evaluate effectiveness of communication and public feedback.

Inform leadership and staff on public communication matters; coordinate with stakeholders, partners, and other agencies to vet information before release.

Coordinate public meetings and community events to represent the division; educate the public on policies, programs, and services.

Keep records of all public statements, media coverage, and communication efforts.

Prepare reports evaluating success of communication programs.

Assist in developing the new website and coordinate updates or necessary changes to Wyoming State Forestry's website.

Coordinate social media communications to deliver key stories, wildfire information, and educational information to the public.

Preferences
None specified.

Knowledge

Knowledge of the principles and methods of planning and conducting a public information and relations program.

Knowledge of the media used in public relations.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of government organization and administration.

Knowledge of principles and methods for marketing strategy and tactics.

Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods.

Ability to be flexible as circumstances evolve.

Ability to be available during off‑hours.

Ability to maintain a calm composure during emergencies.

Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's Degree (typically in Public Relations).

Experience: 0‑1 year of progressive work experience (typically in Public Relations).

OR

Education & Experience Substitution: 3‑4 years of progressive work experience (typically in Public Relations).

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: None.

Physical Working Conditions
(This section is used for recruitment purposes)

Notes

FLSA: Non‑Exempt

Contact
Human Resource Contact: Ryan Scheer / 307-777-8570 / ryan.scheer2@wyo.gov

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.

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