New

Senior External Affairs Specialist

Inland Empire Utilities Agency
$116,947.17 - $142,489.15 Annually
medical insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, vision insurance, flexible benefit account, vacation time, paid holidays, sick time, retirement plan, pension
United States, California, Chino
6075 Kimball Avenue (Show on map)
Jan 10, 2026
THE POSITION: THE OPPORTUNITY: Are you interested in a meaningful career creating, developing, and implementing innovative public outreach, education, and media relations programs that inform, inspire, and engage the community? Do you have a passion for shaping compelling narratives and delivering visually engaging, informative content across multiple platforms? The Agency is seeking a creative, strategic, and influential professional to serve as its next Senior External Affairs Specialist. The successful candidate will be an exceptional communicator and active listener who excels at building and sustaining trusted relationships between the Agency, its member agencies, community partners, stakeholders, and the public. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment; demonstrates superior written and verbal communication skills; and exercises sound judgment while managing multiple priorities. With a keen understanding of public information practices, media relations, and emerging communication tools, the Senior External Affairs Specialist will play a key role in advancing public awareness, supporting Agency goals, and fostering meaningful community engagement. EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in marketing, public relations, communication or a closely related field, and at least five 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. LICENSES; CERTIFICATES; SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: A valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency's vehicle insurance program. Skills and Abilities: Develops and executes comprehensive educational, marketing, public relations, social media, and community outreach strategies aligned with organizational goals and industry best practices. Applies advanced principles of journalism, business communication, and media relations to produce clear, accurate, and effective public information materials, campaigns, and messaging. Plans, coordinates, and oversees community outreach and public information programs while guiding, mentoring, and supporting staff to ensure high-quality performance and outcomes. Analyzes complex issues, evaluates alternatives, and exercises sound independent judgment while interpreting and applying applicable laws, ordinances, policies, and records management requirements. Communicates persuasively and diplomatically with diverse stakeholders, represents the agency effectively in public forums, and builds strong working relationships through tact, collaboration, and professionalism. To view the full job description, please click here. About Us: 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 solutions and drive our mission forward. Accountability- By owning our responsibilities, following through on our commitments, and doing the right thing when no one is looking, we ensure that we meet our goals and uphold our standards of excellence. Coaching for Performance- Our leaders are committed to providing guidance and support to help team members reach their full potential. Respect- We value each individual's contributions and treat everyone with dignity and consideration. Employee Engagement- By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, we ensure that our employees are motivated and invested in our mission. Click the links to learn more about our Agency's Mission, Vision, and Values, including our Strategic Plan. SELECTION PROCESS: There is (1) vacancy in the External & Government Affairs Department This recruitment is being conducted to fill (1) vacancy and will establish an eligibility list which may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur during the active status of the eligibility list. Salary Range: UN 181 FLSA: Exempt Probationary Period: 12 months All employment applications will be reviewed for accuracy, completion, relevant experience, education, training and other job-related qualifications. Applicants with the strongest background relating to the responsibilities of this position will be invited to participate in the testing process which may include one or more of the following: written test, oral interview, performance/practical and/or agility examination. The successful candidate will be required to pass a background/reference check and pre-employment physical examination including a drug screen (for safety sensitive position) at no cost to the candidate. Please visit our website at www.ieua.org and select the Human Resources Department for additional information regarding the Agency, the hiring process and benefit information. Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at (909) 993-1645 or hrdept@ieua.org at least 72 hours in advance of the need for accommodation. The Inland Empire Utilities Agency does not sponsor employment visas at the time of hire or during the course of employment. All applicants and employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE. "The Agency's success is obtained by creating a positive and diverse work environment which recognizes individual differences and experiences".