By Staff Reports
(HONOLULU) – The Honolulu Ocean Safety Department (HOSD) is seeking a dynamic and knowledgeable communications professional to serve as the department’s Public Information Officer, a newly-established leadership position focused on enhancing public safety awareness and transparency around ocean-related hazards and rescues on Oʻahu’s world-renowned beaches.
This critical role will serve as the department’s central communications liaison, responsible for promoting life-saving safety messaging and highlighting the essential work of Honolulu’s lifeguards, who protect millions of beachgoers each year. The Public Information Officer will manage all aspects of the department’s external communication, including news releases, press conferences, and media inquiries, while also overseeing the department’s social media presence and internal communications.
“This is an exciting and important opportunity to support one of our most vital public safety teams,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “The Ocean Safety Department protects millions of beachgoers every year, and adding a Public Information Officer will help ensure that residents and visitors alike stay informed and safe.”
Chief of Ocean Safety Kurt Lager emphasized the importance of the role, stating: “Our lifeguards work tirelessly to save lives. By having a dedicated Public Information Officer, we can amplify their efforts through proactive communication, better public outreach, and increased visibility of critical ocean safety information.”
This is a unique opportunity to shape the voice of a newly established department and support the mission of keeping both residents and visitors safe in one of the world’s most visited beach destinations.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Developing and implementing proactive public safety messaging aligned with the department’s mission;
- Managing relationships with media outlets and overseeing external communication strategies;
- Supporting internal communications across the department;
- Preparing the Department Director and key staff for news conferences, public hearings, and legislative testimony;
- Writing speeches, statements, and talking points for official engagements.
Minimum Qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field;
- At least five years of experience in media relations, public information, or journalism;
- A proven ability to write, edit, and present information clearly and compellingly;
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with others under pressure;
- Experience working under tight deadlines and handling high-profile public communications;
- Familiarity with Hawaiʻi’s ocean conditions and community is highly desirable.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Communications Director Scott Humber at scott.humber@honolulu.gov.