Communication Specialist I

The purpose of this position is to serve as a member of the Communications team. This team is committed to supporting the WaterOne strategic plan by creating opportunities for communication with internal and external stakeholders that inform and inspire confidence in WaterOne services, projects, and initiatives.  This position coordinates with staff throughout the organization to provide centralized communications services that are consistent with the WaterOne brand and aligned with the organization’s goals and the communication strategic plan. 

WaterOne provides competitive benefits and compensation ranges.  Selected candidates are placed in the position’s pay range based on their qualifications.  The salary range for this position is $60,000 to $90,000. Compensation for the selected candidate will depend on candidate qualifications and experience as related to the position requirements. 

 Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Coordinates and manages community outreach program, education program, and special events and all materials related to those programs.
• Builds relationships with local school districts to enhance our education program. 
• Assists in conceptualizing, developing, and producing newsletters, special reports, brochures, rack cards, and other promotional materials.
• Assists in creating content for WaterOne’s communication platforms (i.e. social media, website).
• Assists in producing photographic and video content, including coordinating services from vendors.
• Supports internal and operational communication needs through the production of materials, communication strategies, editing/review of materials, and similar deliverables.
• Assists in designing content for WaterOne’s informational campaigns and special initiatives.
• Tracks and documents communication outcomes for education and outreach programs.
• Communications Specialist have three levels in this department marked by level of water utility experience, mastery of skill and leadership achievements.  

Other Duties

• Drives the WaterOne quench buggy trailer using WaterOne vehicle periodically during event season.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Required Education & Experience

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Graphic Design, Public Relations or other closely related field.
• Three years of related work experience, with at least two of those years in education-related roles (e.g., teaching, librarian, community service, or other work involving children).

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent writing and interpersonal skills.
• Graphic design experience with Adobe products or other related programs. 
• Well-organized and detail-oriented, adaptable to interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Proficient in use of personal computers, internet, social media, Microsoft OS, and related software applications.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in the performance of job duties, including resourceful problem-solving.
• Ability to or ability to learn how to evaluate and summarize data and information into relatable messages.
• Ability to or ability to learn how to promote positive relations with others, demonstrating sufficient skill to share information in a clear, concise manner, and to establish and maintain effective relationships.  

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to move or transport items weighing up to 5 Ibs. occasionally and 10 Ibs rarely. This position requires occasional work in outdoor weather conditions. The employee must be able to remain in a stationary, standing and/or sitting position for up to several hours a day. The employee must be able to constantly operate a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy machine, telephone, and computer. The employee must be able to move from one location to another. 

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

The work environment for this position is a typical office setting. Employees will be expected to work in a professional office environment that includes tasks performed at a desk, using standard office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, and filing systems. The noise level in the office work environment is usually minimal except when less frequently working in the field or production environment. 

WaterOne provides a total compensation package that includes:

• Competitive base pay
• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and LTD insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Company funded Cash Balance Plan
• Company match Defined Contribution Plan
• Comprehensive wellness program
• Educational assistance program
• A variety of other benefit programs and activities

Equal Opportunity Employer

WaterOne is an equal opportunity employer and upholds a non-discrimination policy. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, military status, or marital status in making employment and business decisions. We also prohibit harassment and retaliation in the workplace and in our dealings with the public. We encourage and welcome diversity of backgrounds in our workforce. WaterOne complies with the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA).

Complete job description is available upon request and will be provided during the selection process.

Salary : $60,000 - $90,000