External Affairs Specialist I/II (DOQ) (10-Month Limited Term)

THE OPPORTUNITY The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) is seeking a dynamic and creative External Affairs Specialist I/II (DOQ) (10-Month Limited Term) to facilitate our K-12 water education program, delivered outdoors in our 22-acre wetlands. This position’s primary focus is bringing water education to life for students, turning curiosity about the water cycle, watersheds, and wetland ecosystems into hands‑on, memorable experiences. The ideal candidate is energetic, great with kids, and passionate about making water education fun and exciting in an outdoor environment. Under general supervision, the Specialist plans and leads field‑based lessons, tours, and activities for students and teachers; assists with development of engaging, age‑appropriate curriculum and materials; and builds relationships with schools and educators across the region. This position will spend a significant amount of time conducting outdoor field trips and supporting field trip assignments. In addition to the education program, this position supports the Agency’s public relations, media relations, and community outreach efforts, including public presentations, community events, website and social media content, and evaluation of program effectiveness. The Specialist represents IEUA at community events and meetings, helping advance the goals of the Agency and its member agencies through storytelling and stakeholder engagement. 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 program design and writing skills, and may provide guidance to other staff. This is an excellent opportunity for a communications or education professional who thrives outdoors, inspires young learners, and wants to build 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 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 lead engaging, hands‑on water education lessons, tours, and activities for K‑12 students in an outdoor setting, adapting presentations to different ages, learning needs, and interests. Skill in developing age‑appropriate curriculum and educational materials that explain the water cycle, watersheds, wetland ecosystems, and water conservation in clear, creative, and meaningful ways. Ability to organize educational programs and community outreach activities, build strong relationships with schools and educators, and represent the Agency with professionalism, tact, and enthusiasm. Skill in developing and delivering clear, compelling written and verbal communications, including presentations, public information materials, press releases, and digital content, using AP style where appropriate. Ability to use social media platforms, website content management systems, and outreach tools to promote Agency programs, gather feedback, monitor engagement, and evaluate program effectiveness. 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. This position is open until filled The deadline for the first review of applications is 11:59 PM on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Applicants that submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment. This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline. 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. This position is a Limited-Term (10 Month Limited Term) employment opportunity. Limited-term employees are "AT-WILL" employees, and their employment can be terminated at any time, with or without cause, and with or without notice. A full-time, limited-term employee shall be eligible for the same insurance and leave benefits as a regular Agency employee occupying the same regular classification, pursuant to the applicable Personnel Manual or MOU, EXCEPT for the following: educational reimbursements, certification or licensing payments/reimbursements and computer loans. Salary Range External Affairs Specialist I UN 175 ($7,491.04 - $9,127.20 per month); External Affairs Specialist II UN 178 ($8,671.44 - $10,565.19 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 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io 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". #J-18808-Ljbffr Inland Empire Utilities Agency