External Affairs Specialist I​/II; DOQ; Limited Term

the position

external affairs specialist i/ii (doq) (1 year limited term)

the inland empire utilities agency (ieua) is seeking a dynamic and creative external affairs specialist i/ii (doq) (1 year limited term) to support the agency's public relations, education, media relations, and community outreach programs. Under general supervision, this position assists in developing and implementing strategic communication initiatives that advance ieua and its member agencies' goals through engaging content, public presentations, stakeholder engagement, and media coordination.

The specialist represents the agency at community events and meetings, prepares a variety of written and digital materials, supports website and social media efforts, and helps evaluate the effectiveness of outreach programs. The i level performs entry-level professional duties with growing independence, while the ii level works on a broader range of assignments with greater strategic responsibility, advanced writing and planning skills, and may provide guidance to other staff.

This is an excellent opportunity for a communications professional who thrives on storytelling, strategic thinking, and building strong relationships in support of public service.

graduation from a four-year college or university with a major in marketing, public relations or a closely related field, and at least two years of progressively responsible experience in public information, marketing, public relations and social media; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.

an external affairs specialist i may be considered for advancement to external affairs specialist ii after demonstrating proficiency to perform the full range of duties of the latter class. Proficiency criteria and the process for demonstrating performance at the levels established jointly by hiring authorities and the manager of human resources.

typically, an external affairs specialist i is expected to be capable of meeting the proficiency criteria within a 24-36 month period, depending on an individual's prior experience and progression in performing the full range of external affairs specialist ii duties as described in the established performance criteria.

a valid california class c driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the agency's vehicle insurance program.

• ability to develop and deliver clear, compelling written and verbal communications, including press releases, presentations, social media content, and public information materials using ap style and professional standards.
• skill in planning, organizing, and participating in educational and outreach programs; effectively representing the agency in meetings, public forums, and community events.
• experience utilizing social media platforms, website content management systems, and marketing tools to enhance public outreach, monitor engagement, and evaluate program effectiveness.
• ability to assess community needs, analyze issues, exercise sound judgment, and build strong working relationships while handling sensitive matters with tact and diplomacy.

the inland empire utilities agency is a regional wastewater treatment agency and wholesale distributor of imported water to approximately 950,000 people across 242-square miles in western san bernardino county. Under the leadership of a directly elected five-member board of directors, the agency is committed to supporting the needs of its service area and safeguarding public health through significant investments in a diverse water supply portfolio, reliable municipal/industrial wastewater collection and treatment services, and other related utility services in a regionally planned and cost-effective manner.

as a member agency of the metropolitan water district of southern california (metropolitan), ieua provides supplemental water supplies, primarily via the state water project (swp) for distribution among nine retail agencies. Ieua also replenishes local groundwater supplies with captured stormwater and recycled water produced by ieua that is later extracted by local water agencies for use as a drinking water supply.

at ieua, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture that promotes growth, accountability, and collaboration. Our eight organizational attributes are the foundations of our success and guide us in our daily operations.

• safety- we are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
• continuous learning and improvement- our commitment to professional development ensures that our team members are always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.
• efficiency- we strive to optimize our processes and resources to deliver the highest quality services in the most effective manner.
• collaboration- by leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise, we create innovative…