Service Branches
Work Environment
Public affairs officers usually work in offices.
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Military Status
Officer
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Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$118,375
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
$26,872 - $276,140
Overview
Public Affairs Officers research, plan, budget, execute, and evaluate operations involving the public. They liaise with the news media and provide guidance to senior leaders on decisions that impact mission success.
Military Training
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
Helpful Attributes
- Ability to speak effectively in public
- Ability to write clearly and simply
- Interest in news and current events
- Interpersonal skills
Related Civilian Careers
- Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
- Public Relations Specialists
- Editors
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