External Affairs Intern

The Water Replenishment District (WRD or District) is a California Special District responsible for managing and protecting local groundwater resources for over 4 million people. As a local government agency, WRD ensures that a reliable supply of high-quality groundwater is available through the use of stormwater capture and recycled water. The Water Replenishment District (WRD or District) is seeking two (2) motivated Internsfor the External Affairs Department. The interns will have the opportunity to gain real-world experience supporting various professional duties in the implementation and administration of District-wide government affairs, public education, community outreach, conservation and social media relations programs, as well as plans and strategies to meet designated District public relations goals and objectives. Under supervision, this position will involve working with Public Affairs Representatives, Government Affairs Representatives, project managers, water industry stakeholders, and the general public. This multifaceted position will span a variety of activities and therefore require the incumbent to be highly motivated and exercise flexibility and discretion as they perform various tasks related to community outreach, government affairs, water education, as well as digital and print communications.The ideal candidate must be enrolled as a full-time student at an accredited college/university and be capable of working up to 20 hours per week. Graduate students are also encouraged to apply. Assignments may include, but are not limited to: Assists in implementing District-wide government affairs, public education and media outreach programs, social media campaigns, and water conservation initiatives and activities. Assists with creating public relations and education materials and collateral, including promotional pieces, annual reports, guides, brochures, charts and other print/graphic materials; learns and implements the District’s brand guidelines; conducts background research to write materials. Attend a variety of community events, meetings, and WRD tours and workshops. Complete administrative tasks such as updating databases, tracking inventory, receiving and storing WRD promotional materials, packing and unpacking for events, processing accounting forms, and making or receiving phone calls. Familiarity with the following is favored: Microsoft office products, especially Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint; Google Suite: Sheets, Slides, Forms and Docs Email campaign design and adding contacts to audience lists Community outreach events such as festivals, and/or education programs such as field trips, summer camps, and/or classroom presentations; Social media platforms including Sprout Social, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn; Design (Canva), photography, or video editing software a plus. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply. Ability to do the following is favored: Demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills; Demonstrate a high level of organization, tact, and a positive outlook and drive; Work independently, or in a team setting; Gain an understanding of new concepts in a constantly changing environment; Work weekends and evenings with prior notice; Work outdoors under various weather conditions. Candidates must have excellent written and verbal communication skills. The Public Affairs intern must be able to communicate clear, consistent messages as they relate to environmental and sustainability issues, in a variety of media, including press releases, brochures, internet, and social media product guides. They must also have good interpersonal skills to deal with a diverse group of contacts, including multiple WRD departments, students, the general public, water industry professionals, and WRD’s community partners.

1. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited college or university or be a recent college graduate (within 6 months) with a degree in or a closely related to the field of the internship.Graduate students are also encouraged to apply.
2. Successful completion of a physical and a background check
3. Must provide a copy of current college transcript

Duration Each internship is for one 12-month period. The work schedule for interns is intended to be part-time, but extended work schedules may be allowed during school breaks or as the student’s schedule permits. Flexible, part-time (10 to 20 hours per week) schedule coordinated to work with school schedules but will not exceed more than 990 hours in the fiscal year (July 1 through June 30).

COMPENSATION

$23.51 per hour for undergraduate students and $25.86 per hour for graduate students. For purposes of employment, interns are considered temporary employees and are not eligible for any benefits unless required by law.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

Applications will be accepted until 07/17/2026. WRD reserves the right to fill or close the position at any time, before or after 07/17/2026. To be considered for this opportunity please complete the application process for this position located at The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate further in the screening process, which will include a panel interview and possible written exam. Final candidates must be able to prove legal U.S. residency, pass a background check, and a physical exam. The District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Water Replenishment District