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Public Affairs Officers
What do Public Affairs Officers do in the Military?
Where do Public Affairs Officers work?
Public affairs officers usually work in offices.
How much do they make?
Median Military Salary
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$163,975
Military Salary Range
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$30,376 - $331,236
How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Set based on rank and years of service.
- Paid every month.
Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.
- Tax-free payments.
- Varies by location and family status.
Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.
- Based on specialized roles.
- Varies by position and duty.
What training do Public Affairs Officers gain in the Military?
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for public affairs officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:
- Department of Defense policies
- Principles of public information and community relations
- Developing communication strategies
- Media relations and community relations programs
- Speech writing and public speaking
- Military-media relations
Military Training for Officers
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree. All officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
What skills help Public Affairs Officers succeed?
- Ability to speak effectively in public
- Ability to write clearly and simply
- Interest in news and current events
- Interpersonal skills