Public Affairs Officer I/II

Eastern Municipal Water District•Perris, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision (Public Affairs Officer I) or direction (Public Affairs Officer II), performs a wide variety of professional and administrative activities supporting and/or managing EMWD’s internal and external communications, customer and stakeholder engagement, and media relations programs. Some assignments also serve as liaison between EMWD and other public agencies, professional organizations, industry groups, customers, media, executives, and elected officials. Positions may be assigned to different programs within the department (i.e. strategic communications, outreach, creative services). Public Affairs Officer I: This is the entry-level classification in the Public Affairs Officer series. Initially under general supervision, incumbents perform complex duties supporting and/or managing EMWD’s internal and external communications, customer and stakeholder engagement, event planning, and media relations programs, as well as administrative functions as assigned. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the position at the Public Affairs Officer II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually reviewed while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and difficult; review frequency of work lessens as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently and exercise good judgment and initiative. Public Affairs Officer II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Public Affairs Officer series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Public Affairs Officer I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently and exercising initiative. Incumbents regularly work on widely varying tasks which require considerable discretion and good judgment. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the Public Affairs Manager in that the latter manages annual strategic communications and stakeholder outreach planning, program oversight, and development of new public affairs initiatives, while providing technical and functional direction and direct supervision over lower-level staff.

Requirements

Knowledge of: Principles, techniques, and methods of public information, outreach, and community relations.
Knowledge of: Basic principles and practices of water, wastewater, and recycled water operations and services.
Knowledge of: Photographic techniques and the operation of still and video camera equipment and editing tools including Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Premiere and/or Apple Final Cut Pro, Apple GarageBand or other sound editing software.
Knowledge of: Methods and techniques of social media, web and video communications.
Knowledge of: Current issues and state laws related to water, wastewater, and recycled water functions and policies sufficient to perform assigned function(s).
Knowledge of: Methods of preparing informational materials and disseminating them through the various media, including the methods and techniques of graphic design, layout and print production.
Knowledge of: Contemporary methods and techniques to garner media coverage.
Knowledge of: Community demographics in EMWD’s service areas.
Knowledge of: Research tools, methods, and techniques.
Knowledge of: Basic conservation principles and programs commonly used in other water utilities.
Knowledge of: Methods and techniques of facilitating meetings and conducting presentations.
Knowledge of: EMWD and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
Knowledge of: Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and EMWD staff.
Knowledge of: State of California Standards for grades K-12, if assignment pertains to these programs.
Knowledge of: Principles, methods, and practices applied in design of educational curriculum and materials for use in school programs or outreach programs, if assignment pertains to these programs.
Knowledge of: The structure and content of the English language and Associated Press best practices, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Knowledge of: Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability to: Apply special graphic production techniques in the distribution of informational materials, including video production.
Ability to: Follow and apply written and oral work instructions.
Ability to: Conduct complex research projects, evaluate alternatives, make sound recommendations, and prepare effective technical staff reports.
Ability to: Prepare a diverse range of presentations and public information materials.
Ability to: Prepare clear and concise communications aligned with EMWD’s priorities.
Ability to: Establish and maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems.
Ability to: Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
Ability to: Effectively represent the department and EMWD in meetings with governmental agencies; various business, professional and regulatory organizations, and other stakeholders; and in meetings with individuals; answer questions regarding all topics relating to EMWD and its’ operations.
Ability to: Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
Ability to: Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
Ability to: Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Ability to: Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
Ability to: Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Ability to: Adapt to continuously changing environment and priorities while maintaining transparency and meeting deadlines.
Experience (Public Affairs Officer I): Two (2) years of experience providing professional support to a public information program.
Experience (Public Affairs Officer II): Four (4) years of progressively responsible experience providing professional support to a public information program; or (1) year of experience as a Public Affairs Officer I with EMWD.
Education: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public relations, communications, education, marketing, journalism, or a related field.
Licenses/Certifications: A valid California Class C driver's license and ability to maintain insurability under EMWD's Vehicle Insurance Policy.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in related field is highly desirable and may substitute for one year of experience.

Responsibilities

Supports and/or manages a variety of strategic communications and stakeholder engagement programs regarding EMWD operations, policies, programs, and procedures as well as relevant industry issues.
Undertakes public speaking engagements before meetings of professional, educational, and stakeholder organizations as well as in public forums; delivers presentations to key stakeholder and industry groups on varying topics related to water, wastewater, recycled water and water use efficiency projects and issues.
Produces short and long form videos and other digital media for multiple platforms including web, social media, mobile devices, and events.
Within designated area, serves as on-going liaison and represents EMWD with designated governmental and education-related agencies and other stakeholder groups and organizations, as well as executives, Board members, and other elected officials; attends meetings, answers questions, and provides information on EMWD programs and projects; works with other EMWD staff to formulate methods and approaches for addressing customer, stakeholder, education, and agency concerns; follows up to ensure that concerns and needs have been addressed.
Responds to, or arranges for responses to, escalated customer calls from designated area, ranging from the routine to highly sensitive issues and emergency incidents.
Supports and/or manages assigned public awareness campaigns, information or community engagement programs, or internal communication projects; coordinates design and development of supporting materials.
Within designated area, coordinates and schedules community events and meetings, including preparation of agenda and materials; develops internal and external communications and publications; distributes information and communications through a variety of outlets including, direct mail, traditional media, online media, and social media platforms.
Within designated area, develops and maintains contacts with various stakeholder groups, organizations, business leaders, media, and government representatives; fosters and promotes positive relations with EMWD employees and departments, customers, stakeholders, schools, and other local government agencies.
Assists with maintaining EMWD’s internal and external websites by creating content and working with staff to develop and update content.
Assists in the development and implementation of informational program materials and graphic material, including flyers, brochures, newsletters, fact sheets, bill inserts, charts, news releases, feature articles, photographs, and other print/graphic materials for stakeholders and broadcast media; aligns work products with EMWD communication priorities.
Supports the identification and creation of social media campaigns and initiatives to enhance users’ experiences and grow EMWD’s social community engagement, interaction, and membership on various social media platforms.
Supports and/or manages the development of outreach programs for stakeholders within designated area.
Within designated area, tracks EMWD construction projects and sends letters of information to residents and schools in the impacted area; responds to inquiries/complaints and works with various EMWD departments to address and resolve these issues.
Assist with filming and video editing, using Adobe Premiere and/or Apple Final Cut software.
Produce collateral and graphic materials with InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.
Coordinates and conducts tours of EMWD facilities and hosts community outreach events for stakeholders as assigned.
Observes and complies with all EMWD and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
Maintains and reviews department documents and databases to ensure accurate information; examines supporting documentation to establish proper authorization and conformance with EMWD policies, agreements, contracts, and state and federal requirements.
Maintains EMWD’s video library – including videos used for social media, events and other campaigns.
Evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand.
Performs related duties as assigned.
Assists with the development and dissemination of crisis and emergency communications (Public Affairs Officer II).
Assists with developing communication strategies, deployment opportunities, and corresponding performance measures and goals in support of ongoing projects or activities (Public Affairs Officer II).
Formulates key messages and talking points for addressing stakeholder and agency concerns (Public Affairs Officer II).
Coordinates directly with local media and in the facilitation of paid and earned media opportunities (Public Affairs Officer II).
Conducts internal and external surveys; conducts background research and analyzes data and provides recommendations to senior staff; writes technical reports, correspondence, and other written materials (Public Affairs Officer II).

Benefits

CalPERS Retirement: Classic Members: 2% at 55 benefit formula, employees pay the 7% contribution. New Members: 2% at 62 benefit formula, employees current contribution is 7.5%. EMWD does not participate in Social Security.
Retiree Medical Coverage provided through CalPERS with EMWD providing the PEMHCA minimum.
Deferred Compensation: Two programs are offered to employees: 401(a) – EMWD provides annual contributions of $1,180 and a 457 voluntary plan where EMWD provides a match to the 401(a) ranging from 4.5% to 6.0% of employee’s annual salary dependent upon CalPERS tier.
Medical Plans: Several health plans are offered, with EMWD currently contributing $2,739/month towards the premiums for employees and family; medical in-lieu is available with required proof of coverage.
Dental Plan: Full coverage for employees and family in the base plan at no cost with EMWD contributing up to $1,560 annually. Employees have the option to elect an enhanced plan with the employee paying the difference through voluntary payroll deductions.
Vision Plan: Full coverage for employees and family in the base plan at no cost with EMWD contributing up to $245 annually. Employees have the option to elect an enhanced plan with the employee paying the difference through voluntary payroll deductions.
Voluntary Plans: Health Care and Child/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, supplemental accident, cancer, critical illness, life and AD&D, pet and short-term disability insurance available through payroll deductions.
Life Insurance: Equal to annual salary up to a maximum of $250,000 at no cost. Employees may purchase up to an additional $500,000 in life insurance with EMWD paying 50% of the premium.
Paid Time Off (PTO): 176 hours per year, increasing after year 5 completed.
Holidays: 10 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays per year.
Bereavement Leave: up to 5 days.
Tuition Reimbursement: up to $6,198 annually.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Available to employees and their families.
Telecommute Opportunities: Available to qualifying employees on a case-by-case basis when operationally feasible and accordance with EMWD’s Telecommute Policy.
Alternative Work Schedule: Employees are provided opportunity to work a 4/10 or 9/80 work schedule dependent on position and operational needs.