Public Information Specialist II (Digital Communications)

West Basin Municipal Water District•Carson, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

West Basin Municipal Water District (West Basin) is seeking an experienced social media and digital communications professional. Under general supervision, this role will develop strategic content, handle digital communications, and interact with audiences across platforms including LinkedIn, Instagram, and the District website, with a focus on audience engagement, campaign tracking, and shaping the District’s brand identity. This position provides general support for the Public Information and Education Department and will perform other related duties as assigned. The District is seeking an individual with five years of experience or more whose skills and abilities best reflect the qualifications for the position. Public Information Specialist II is the journey-level classification in the District's three-level Public Information series. Incumbents perform a broad range of professional communications, public information, media relations, community outreach, and marketing activities with a degree of independence and responsibility. Responsibilities include developing and implementing communication strategies; creating content for print, digital, website, and social media platforms; coordinating public outreach and educational programs; and serving as a liaison with internal departments, community organizations, water retailers, agency partners, elected officials, members of the media, and the public. The Public Information Specialist II is distinguished from the Public Information Specialist III by the latter's advanced level of expertise, greater independent judgment, leadership of complex communication initiatives, additional education and/or professional certifications, and supervisory or lead responsibilities.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in public relations or communications; AND at least five (5) years of professional experience, with roles overseeing public relations projects and programs.
Knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and principles and the demonstrated ability to communicate these to a wide range of audiences through various digital communications tactics
Proven skills in research and interview techniques to gather relevant information from subject matter experts.
Proficiency in digital content management systems and a functional understanding of web optimization, including readability and engagement metrics.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain accurate files and records.
Demonstrated ability to participate in groups effectively.
Strong interpersonal ability to work cooperatively and maintain effective relationships with the District Board of Directors, managers and staff, vendors, consultants, employees, representatives of other governmental agencies, and others encountered in the course of work.
Ability to be creative, energetic, and self-motivated, and to take initiative where appropriate.
Required to operate standard business equipment; reach with hands and arms; and is frequently required to stand and walk, kneel, crouch or twist, and occasionally lift or carry materials up to 25 pounds.
Possession of a valid Class C California Driver's License, proof of insurance, and an acceptable driving record are required at the time of appointment and As a condition of continued employment.
The employee is required to use their vehicle with mileage reimbursed at the standard IRS rate.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the water industry, a public agency, and/or a public relations firm is desirable.
Knowledge of California water issues and/or experience in local government.

Responsibilities

Researches, writes, and edits high-quality content for website, social media, and digital platforms, ensuring narrative consistency across all channels.
Transforms complex scientific concepts, construction project milestones and water management goals into clear, engaging narratives for non-technical public audiences.
Develops both long-form evergreen thematic stories and/or marketing campaigns and time-sensitive water management news and community event updates under tight deadlines.
Partners with water policy, facility operations and engineer staff to translate technical information and verify the scientific accuracy of all communication products.
Creates graphics and reels and oversees the production of additional digital assets by collaborating with staff and vendors to ensure a cohesive visual and narrative flow.
Tracks key performance indicators to optimize digital strategies and report on campaign results.
Formats and polishes content for specific digital platforms, ensuring all information is clear, concise, and optimized for audience engagement.
Monitors and refresh existing web and digital content to ensure accuracy and relevance as District goals and strategic plans evolve.
Develop materials and presentations in support of the District’s Board of Directors, senior management team, outreach, conservation, and educational programs; may also conduct presentations and facility tours to internal and external audiences as needed.
Conducts day-to-day department administrative tasks including filing, copying, managing calendars, entering purchase orders, and all other related tasks assigned.