Duties Description:

Under the direction of the Communications Director and Deputy Communications Director, the Public Information Officer will serve as a key member of the Department’s Public Affairs Group, responsible for drafting and managing responses to media inquiries and supporting strategic communications initiatives. Duties include, but are not limited to:

Drafting, reviewing, and managing press releases, media statements, inquiry responses, talking points, briefings, and digital content, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and alignment with Department priorities.
Coordinating closely with program staff, legal counsel, and executive leadership to translate complex public health, regulatory, or policy matters into accessible public messaging.
Assisting in the preparation of materials for public meetings, press events, and executive appearances.
Researching and drafting Department or Commissioner statements, press releases, and other written materials.
Monitoring media coverage and identifying emerging issues; providing recommendations to support proactive and responsive communications strategies.
Conducting background research and interviews utilizing internal and external resources to inform communications products.
Supporting follow-up activities related to public events, presentations, and outreach efforts.
Collaborating with Public Affairs Group staff to ensure assignments and projects are completed accurately, consistently, and within established timelines.
Contributing to social media and digital communications efforts to enhance public understanding of Department initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, or a related field; and three years of professional experience in public relations, government communications, media relations, digital communications or speechwriting.
Substitution: Four years of work experience or associate's degree and two years of work experience may substitute for the bachelor's degree; master's degree may substitute for one year of work experience; Ph. D. may substitute for two years of work experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

At least five (5) years of professional experience in public relations, government communications, media relations, digital communications, speechwriting, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience working with local, state, and national media outlets, including traditional and non-traditional platforms such as podcasts, newsletters (e.g., Substack), and social media channels.
Experience with crisis communications and rapid response.
Experience translating complex policy, regulatory, or technical subject matter into clear, accessible messaging for diverse audiences.
Experience managing media inquiries in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment under tight deadlines.
Familiarity with government processes, legislative affairs, or regulatory environments preferred.
Strong judgment, professionalism, and the ability to work collaboratively across program areas and with executive leadership

Additional Comments:

The Department has regional offices throughout New York State. Work location may be discussed at time of interview.

We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including:

Holiday & Paid Time Off
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System
Shift & Geographic pay differentials
Affordable Health Care options
Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
NYS Deferred Compensation plan
Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds
And many more...

The NYS Department of Health is committed to making New York a safer, healthier, and more equitable place to live. Understanding health equity, social determinants of health and health disparities is critical to accomplish our goal of eliminating health disparities. For more information on the NYS Department of Health’s Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan, please visit:

https://health.ny.gov/commissioner/index.htm

If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact by phone 518-486-1812 or email doh.sm.reasonable.accommodation@health.ny.gov to make a request.

NYS Department of Health does not participate in E-Verify and does not sponsor visa applications.

For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts.

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

Pay: $86,773.00 - $108,413.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Professional development assistance
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

NYS Department of Health

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Assistant Public Information Officer - 104