Government and Community Relations Specialist

Neighborhood Healthcare•Escondido, CA

12d•$73,500 - $104,400

About The Position

The Government and Community Relations Specialist supports Neighborhood Healthcare’s government relations and community outreach efforts, with a primary focus on advancing organizational priorities at the local level. Working with the Supervisor Government and Community Relations, the Specialist contributes to developing and executing strategies that strengthen Neighborhood Healthcare’s presence and influence among key stakeholder groups. The role cultivates relationships with city and county legislators, legislative aides, elected officials, public health agency leaders, business and healthcare representatives, school administrators, charitable organizations, and community planning groups. It also leads outreach to residents, local organizations, and underserved populations so the organization remains responsive to community needs and visible in public forums. Through advocacy and outreach, the Specialist helps establish Neighborhood Healthcare as a trusted voice in local policy discussions and a partner in initiatives promoting community health and well-being. Neighborhood Healthcare is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) community health organization. Its PACE program provides managed medical care through a team of physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, and care coordinators, with the goal of helping seniors maintain good health and quality of life at home. The organization serves more than 100,000 people annually and has two PACE centers in Riverside County.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public policy, healthcare administration, or a related field; equivalent experience of at least four years may be considered in lieu of a degree.
At least two years of experience in government relations, public affairs, community outreach, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience engaging with elected officials, government agencies, and community organizations.
Experience providing services or conducting communications with diverse populations.
Knowledge of governmental bodies and community-based organizations that impact the organization.
Experience planning and executing community engagement events or public forums.
Strong understanding of healthcare policy and community health systems.
Expert interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including composition, typing, and proofreading.
Ability to interpret written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule-based instructions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
Ability to assess situations and independently develop a plan of action with an appropriate sense of urgency.
Ability to interact courteously and professionally with staff and volunteers at all levels, including Board Members, donors, managers, and directors.
Ability to handle highly confidential information professionally and ethically.
Availability to work select nights and weekends when necessary.
Ability to drive and have reliable transportation to and from the primary work site and organizational events or meetings.
Ability to lift or carry 10 pounds and stand for long periods.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Support the development and execution of Neighborhood Healthcare’s government relations strategy in collaboration with the Supervisor Government and Community Relations.
Monitor and analyze local, state, and federal legislation and regulatory developments affecting FQHCs, PACE programs, and community health.
Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, legislative staff, public health agencies, and other government stakeholders.
Coordinate and facilitate site visits, tours, and meetings with policymakers and government representatives.
Draft policy briefs, talking points, and official correspondence to support advocacy efforts.
Represent Neighborhood Healthcare at public hearings, legislative sessions, and community forums.
Track and report advocacy activities, stakeholder engagement, and policy outcomes.
Plan and implement outreach initiatives engaging community members, local organizations, and underserved populations.
Serve as a liaison between Neighborhood Healthcare and community groups, schools, nonprofits, and planning bodies.
Organize and participate in community events, health fairs, and public forums to promote awareness of Neighborhood Healthcare’s services and mission.
Identify opportunities to collaborate with local partners on health equity and social determinants of health.
Collect and share community feedback with internal teams to inform program development and advocacy priorities.
Ensure consistent messaging and visibility of Neighborhood Healthcare in community settings.
Follow safety procedures, maintain knowledge of safe work practices, use appropriate body mechanics, and follow infection-control procedures.
Protect the privacy of patient, employee, and volunteer information and comply with corporate integrity and security requirements.
Report unethical, fraudulent, or unlawful behavior or activity.