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External Affairs Specialist I/II (DOQ)

Inland Empire Utilities Agency
Inland Empire Utilities Agency Salary
Chino, CA Intern
POSTED ON 3/26/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 4/24/2026
The Position

THE OPPORTUNITY:

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) is seeking a dynamic and creative External Affairs Specialist I/II (DOQ) to support the Agency’s public relations, education, media relations, and community outreach programs. Under general supervision, this position assists in developing and implementing strategic communication initiatives that advance IEUA and its member agencies’ goals through engaging content, public presentations, stakeholder engagement, and media coordination. The Specialist represents the Agency at community events and meetings, prepares a variety of written and digital materials, supports website and social media efforts, and helps evaluate the effectiveness of outreach programs. The I level performs entry-level professional duties with growing independence, while the II level works on a broader range of assignments with greater strategic responsibility, advanced writing and planning skills, and may provide guidance to other staff. This is an excellent opportunity for a communications professional who thrives on storytelling, strategic thinking, and building strong relationships in support of public service.

Education, Training, And Experiences

Graduation from a four-year college or university with a major in marketing, public relations or a closely related field, and at least two 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 and at least one year of experience facilitating water education programs for K–12 students is preferred.

An External Affairs Specialist I may be considered for advancement to External Affairs Specialist II after demonstrating proficiency to perform the full range of duties of the latter class. Proficiency criteria and the process for demonstrating performance at the levels established jointly by hiring authorities and the Manager of Human Resources.

Typically, an External Affairs Specialist I is expected to be capable of meeting the proficiency criteria within a 24-36 month period, depending on an individual's prior experience and progression in performing the full range of External Affairs Specialist II duties as described in the established performance criteria.

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

  • Ability to develop and deliver clear, compelling written and verbal communications, including press releases, presentations, social media content, and public information materials using AP style and professional standards.
  • Skill in planning, organizing, and participating in educational and outreach programs; effectively representing the Agency in meetings, public forums, and community events.
  • Experience utilizing social media platforms, website content management systems, and marketing tools to enhance public outreach, monitor engagement, and evaluate program effectiveness.
  • Ability to assess community needs, analyze issues, exercise sound judgment, and build strong working relationships while handling sensitive matters with tact and diplomacy.

About Us

To view the full job description, please click here.

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 one (1) vacancy in the External & Government Affairs Department.

This recruitment is being conducted to fill one (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: External Affairs Specialist I UN 175 ($7,272.77 - $8,861.26 per month); External Affairs Specialist II UN 178 ($8,418.85 - $10,257.44 per month)

FLSA: Exempt

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".

The Agency offers a comprehensive benefit package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefit amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit and employment type. This benefits overview is a summary and is not to be considered all-inclusive or applicable to all employees.

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.

Retirement

California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS)

An employee who becomes a "new" member of CalPERS for the first time on or after January 1, 2013 (and who was not a member of another California public retirement system prior to that date) will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2.0% @ 62 benefit formula with a three-year final compensation in accordance with Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA). New members (PEPRA) will be required to pay half of the normal cost [Govt. Code Section. 7522.30(c)] currently 6.75% of eligible earnings toward the employee contribution.

An employee who is a "classic" member of CalPERS, or a current member of another California public retirement system, who is hired on or after January 1, 2012, will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2.0% @ 55 benefit formula with a three-year final compensation. Classic members shall contribute 7% of eligible earnings toward the employee contribution.

Social Security/Medicare

Along with CalPERS retirement, the Agency also participates in Social Security and Medicare. The Agency pays 7.65% on your behalf [6.2% Social Security 1.45% Medicare], and the employee pays 7.65% via payroll taxes.

Medical

The Agency shall make a maximum monthly contribution towards the cost of his/her health insurance as follows:

Agency Medical Contribution

Health insurance is offered through CalPERS, and enrollment is optional with evidence of health coverage from another source. Eligible employees who waive their medical benefit receive a cash incentive payment. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.

Dental and Vision Insurance

The Agency offers two dental plans – Delta Dental (PPO) and Western Dental (DPO). Enrollment in one of the plans is mandatory. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.

Vision insurance is offered through EyeMed Vision Plan and enrollment is voluntary. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Plan

Effective on the first date of the month following date of hire, you are eligible to participate in the Agency's Section 125 Cafeteria Program. Participants in this program may take advantage of tax savings offered through a medical care flexible spending account, a dependent care flexible spending account, or purchase supplemental benefits including critical illness and accident insurance with pre-tax dollars. In addition, employees can purchase supplemental life insurance with post-tax dollars.

Term Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance

Life and AD&D insurance is offered through Lincoln Financial Group. Executive Management employees are provided with 1 time their annual earnings up to $300,000. Unrepresented Management employees are provided with an Agency paid $90,000 Life and AD&D policy. Unrepresented non-management, and members of the Supervisors', Laboratory, Professional, General, or Operators' Unit are provided an Agency paid $50,000 Life and AD&D policy. Enrollment into a basic $10,000 Life and AD&D policy is required and paid by the employee. Employees may purchase dependent life, for their spouse and/or eligible child(ren), or additional Life and AD&D coverage for themselves up to $500,000. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following date of hire.

Disability Insurance

Employees are insured by an Agency-paid long-term disability insurance, which will provide income for an employee who is totally disabled from illness, injury, or accident. The basic benefit provides for 60% of the first $10,000 of monthly salary, reduced by deductible income, after a 365-day waiting period. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Short-term disability insurance is available through State Disability Insurance (SDI). Employees covered by SDI are covered by two programs: Disability Insurance and Paid Family Leave. Per applicable MOU and/or Personnel Manual, cash-out option available.

Employee Assistance Program

Agency employees are provided access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) which provides 24/7 assistance needed to help resolve life's challenges.

401(a) & 457(b) Deferred Compensation

Participation in a 457 deferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. The Agency will contribute $35.00 per pay period to a single 457(b) account for each employee who has made an elective deferral of thirty-five ($35) or more to the plan. Also, participation in a 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan is available within 60 days of hire.

PAID TIME OFF

Holidays

The Agency offers twelve (12) paid holidays. Additional paid floating holidays are available every fiscal year as follows:

Senior Management:6 Floating Holidays per FY & 8 Senior Management Leave days

Unrepresented Management:10 Floating Holidays per FY

Unrepresented Non-Management:6 Floating Holidays per FY

Supervisors’ Unit:8 Floating Holidays per FY

Laboratory Unit:6 Floating Holidays per FY

Professional Unit:6 Floating Holidays per FY

Operators’ Association:6 Floating Holidays per FY

General Unit:60 hours Floating Holidays per FY

Vacation Leave

Employees accrue 80 hours of vacation leave per year depending on length of employment, progressing to 200 hours per year. Senior Management employees accrue 120 hours of vacation leave per year depending on length of service, progressing to 240 hours per year. Per applicable MOU and/or Personnel Manual, cash-out option available.

Sick Leave

Employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.

Vehicle Allowance

Senior Management and Unrepresented Management employees may receive a monthly vehicle allowance.

Safety Equipment Stipend

Members of the Laboratory Unit shall receive up to $350 per fiscal year for the purchase of safety glasses. Additionally, Laboratory members will receive $350 per fiscal year for the purchase of Safety Shoes and inserts.

Educational Reimbursement Program

The Agency may reimburse eligible employees for the cost of educational courses up to $5,250 per fiscal year for the cost of educational expenses that are related to the employee's work. Limited Term employees are not eligible for this benefit.

Wellness Stipend

Employees not on original probation shall be entitled to a wellness stipend of five hundred dollars ($500) per calendar year. The wellness stipend shall be paid every twenty-fifth (25th) pay period.

Computer Loan Program

Eligible employees may receive an interest-free loan up to $3,000 to purchase a personal computer. Limited Term employees are not eligible for this benefit.

This benefits overview is a summary and is not to be considered all-inclusive or applicable to all employees.

01

I understand that I must thoroughly complete the Education (including high school information regardless of any additional higher education), Employment History (including contact information, reason for leaving and gaps in employment greater than three months), Certificates & Licenses, and Supplemental Questions sections of my application, as applicable. This includes a detailed description of all work experience for the last ten years, if applicable. I also understand that I may not submit resumes in lieu of filling out the application or answering the Supplemental Questions.

  • Yes
  • No

02

I have read the above statement and understand that failure to provide sufficient information may result in my application being rejected.

  • Yes
  • No

03

This position requires the possession of a valid Class C California Driver's License? Note: For out-of-state applicants, a valid driver's license is required and a valid California Class "C" driver's license must be obtained within ten (10) days of appointment (CA Vehicle Code 12505c).

  • Yes, I possess a current valid California Class C Driver’s License.
  • No, I do not possess a current valid California Class C Driver’s License, but can obtain within 10 days of appointment.
  • No, I do not possess a current valid California Class C Driver’s License and cannot obtain within 10 days of appointment.

04

Have you graduated from a four-year college or university with a major in marketing, public relations or a closely related field?

  • Yes
  • No

05

Which option below best describes your highest level of education? (NOTE: You will be required to verify your education level if you continue in the selection process.)

  • Some high school
  • High school or G.E.D.
  • Some college
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Doctorate degree
  • None

06

If you answered Bachelor's degree or higher for your education please enter your major here: (If you do not have an Bachelor's degree or higher, state "not applicable.")

07

Do you have at least two years of progressively responsible experience in public information, marketing, public relations and social media; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

  • Yes
  • No

08

Please indicate your years of progressively responsible experience in public information, marketing, public relations, and social media?

  • No experience
  • Less than 2 years of experience
  • More than 2 years but less than 3
  • More than 3 years but less than 4
  • More than 5 years

09

Please provide additional information to support your response above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification above. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" or similar language will remove you from further consideration.

10

Please describe your education, training, and experience in detail. Please note: Incomplete responses such as "see resume" will result in disqualification and remove you from further consideration.

11

Describe a communication campaign or outreach initiative you developed or contributed to. What was the goal, how did you measure success, and what would you do differently in hindsight? If you do not have experience, state "no experience." Please note: Incomplete responses such as "see resume" or similar language will remove you from further consideration.

12

Describe your experience working in a government setting (i.e., city, county, special district) including any experience preparing marketing campaigns, media kits, etc. If you do not have experience, state "no experience." Please note: Incomplete responses such as "see resume" or similar language will remove you from further consideration.

13

Describe a time when you had to communicate a complex or technical topic to a general public audience. How did you approach it, and what formats or channels did you use? If you do not have experience, state "no experience." Please note: Incomplete responses such as "see resume" or similar language will remove you from further consideration.

14

Describe the largest event you have contributed to and provide a detailed explanation of your specific responsibilities in planning and executing the event. If you do not have experience, state "no experience." Please note: Incomplete responses such as "see resume" or similar language will remove you from further consideration.

15

Describe your most relevant experience using current trends (i.e. news media and social media) to promote public relations, community relations, education, or marketing communication programs or projects. List the news media you have worked with and social media outlets you have used as part of your employment. If you do not have experience, state "no experience." Please note: Incomplete responses such as "see resume" or similar language will remove you from further consideration.

16

Describe challenges impacting marketing and outreach through a public wholesale water agency. Describe some factors you would consider in designing a communication plan and ensuring the communication was effective. If you do not have experience, state "no experience." Please note: Incomplete responses such as "see resume" or similar language will remove you from further consideration.

17

This recruitment may be used to fill a vacancy at either the External Affairs Specialist I or External Affairs Specialist II level. Are you willing to accept an appointment at the lower level (External Affairs Specialist I) if you are not selected for the higher-level position (External Affairs Specialist II)?

  • Yes
  • No

18

Individuals selected for the position will serve a 12 month original/technical probation period. Individuals serving an original probation period may be terminated at any time during the 12 month period. Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?

  • Yes
  • No

19

I understand that communications to me regarding this recruitment will be communicated by email, and that I will need to monitor my inbox/spam/junk email folder regularly to ensure that I do not miss any relevant communication.

  • Yes
  • No

20

I hereby understand and declare that the statements on this supplemental questionnaire are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. As applicable, I hereby authorize the Agency and/or designees to contact the references listed to verify the information I have supplied. I hereby release from liability all persons and organizations furnishing such information. I understand that the Agency reserves the right to validate information received on the supplemental questionnaire and that I will be subject to disqualification and/or termination if any statement in this supplemental questionnaire is found to be untrue or determined to be misleading.

  • Yes
  • No
  • Required Question

Salary : $350 - $300,000

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