U.S. NAVY Public Affairs Officer

The Public Affairs Officer (PAO) program gives creative, driven, and articulate leaders a chance to shape the Navy’s global message. As a PAO, you’ll lead teams that develop strategic communication plans, respond to media, manage public relations crises, and oversee internal and external Navy messaging—often during high-stakes events on a national and global scale.

Applicants attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, RI, followed by advanced training at Defense Information School (DINFOS). You’ll earn the title of Naval Officer—no prior military experience required.

• Lead Navy public communication efforts and media relations
• Serve as spokesperson during operations, crises, and international events
• Manage internal communication and command information programs
• Oversee branding, marketing, and strategic campaigns
• Collaborate with Pentagon, international media, and senior leadership
• Represent the Navy in high-visibility environments across the world

• Age 19–36 at time of commissioning (waivers up to 39 may be considered)
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• GPA: 2.8 or higher (waivers to 2.6 with grad school GPA ≥ 3.0)
• Must pass medical screening and a background investigation
• Must submit a writing & creative portfolio
• Must complete a formal interview panel (schedule 4+ months in advance)
• No prior military experience required
• Waivers possible for exceptional candidates with unique communication backgrounds

• Strong writing and communication skills with published work or media contributions
• High GPA (3.3 or above) or completion of graduate-level coursework
• Interview scores of “Outstanding” with 8–10 on “Willingness to Serve With”
• Robust creative portfolio (press releases, articles, strategic comms plans, video scripts, social campaigns)
• Relevant experience in public affairs, journalism, military comms, media relations, or community outreach
• Letters of recommendation from senior officers or respected civilian professionals
• A deep understanding of current events, strategic communication, and Navy values

Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, Advertising

• English, Political Science, International Studies
• Social Sciences or other liberal arts may be accepted
• Non-listed degrees may qualify with 1+ year of public affairs-related experience

• 1st Year: $86,964 – $93,509
• 2nd Year: $99,822 – $104,567
• 3rd Year: $118,284 – $124,096
• 4th Year: $137,130 – $141,309

Includes base pay, Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS). Actual compensation depends on location and dependents.