Government and Community Relations Specialist

Neighborhood Healthcare•Escondido, CA

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 the organization’s priorities locally. In collaboration with the Director of External Affairs, the Specialist contributes to developing and executing strategies that strengthen Neighborhood Healthcare’s presence and influence among key stakeholders. The role builds and maintains relationships with public officials, government and public health agencies, community organizations, schools, businesses, healthcare representatives, and community planning groups. It also leads outreach to residents and underserved populations so the organization remains responsive to community needs and visible in public forums. Through advocacy and outreach, the Specialist helps ensure Neighborhood Healthcare is a trusted voice in local policy discussions and a valued partner in initiatives that promote community health and well-being. Neighborhood Healthcare is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) community health organization. Its PACE program is a managed medical plan serving seniors through a coordinated team of healthcare and support professionals, with two centers in Riverside County. The organization reports serving more than 100,000 people annually through over 500,000 medical, dental, and behavioral health visits. The position requires a bachelor’s degree in communications, public policy, healthcare administration, or a related field; equivalent experience of at least four years may be considered instead. At least two years of experience in government relations, public affairs, community outreach, or a related field is required. Select nights and weekends may be required. The posted annual pay range is $73,500 to $104,400, depending on experience and other factors.

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, including composition, typing, and proofreading.
Ability to interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
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 Director of External Affairs.
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 on 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 the organization’s services and mission.
Identify opportunities to collaborate with local partners on health equity and the social determinants of health.
Collect and share community feedback with internal teams to inform program development and advocacy priorities.
Ensure consistent messaging and visibility for Neighborhood Healthcare in community settings.
Follow safety procedures, report injuries and unsafe conditions, maintain knowledge of safe work practices, and follow infection-control procedures.
Protect patient, employee, and volunteer privacy; comply with corporate integrity and security obligations; and report unethical, fraudulent, or unlawful activity.