Communications & Public Affairs Manager

The Communications and Public Affairs Manager will exercise leadership to transform the public’s attitude about wastewater from invisible to invaluable. Under the general direction of the Chief Engineer and Director, this position serves as a strategic and creative adviser on the development, implementation and evaluation of effective communication and public engagement strategies and the District brand. This position also stays connected externally to political forces and influences that could impact District policies and assists with developing organizational strategies.Water touches every life, every day. Our health and the health of the environment and our community depend on access to safe, reliable and affordable water and wastewater systems.

A completed application will include a resume and a required one- to two-page cover letter addressing the following:

• In two paragraphs, what is the most successful communication campaign that you conceived and executed?
• In one paragraph, how can the District build public trust?
• What not to put in the letter is the same information that is in your resume. Share your ideas, not your credentials.

A first review of applications will take place on or after April 3, 2023.

Duties:

The successful Manager must bring the following qualities to the work:

• Strategic. A critical thinker who can sort through the clutter to find the most impactful communication pathway.
• Perceptive. Excels at listening and understanding.
• Insightful. Storyteller. Can transform complex technical information into a compelling human story. Balanced.
• Knowledge and passion for a broad range of social and environmental sustainability issues.

Critical Results:

Critical results are the expected end outcomes this position works towards. Water is cherished in the community. There is public support for the District’s mission, vision and goals. The District is a trusted and visible partner in the community. The District is positioned to proactively address emerging political forces and challenges.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree with major course work in communications, marketing, social science, English, environmental quality or related field.
• A master’s degree is an asset.
• A minimum of five years of directly related professional experience with emphasis on work related to public relations, environmental education or media communications.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• A valid WI driver’s license is required.

Extensive knowledge of:

• Public relations 
• Social media
• Social marketing 
• Sustainability 
• Technology 
• Public engagement

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment, but trips to field sites should be expected. The position requires one to be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time with the ability to operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment. The position requires the ability to read and write words and numbers, and it also requires the ability to communicate in person, publicly, or over the phone. This position requires the ability to lift A/V materials and equipment, and other outreach materials weighing up to 25 pounds occasionally and the noise level varies from quiet to loud. Work may occasionally require exposure to hazardous conditions and noxious chemicals. In addition, work may also occasionally require performance of tasks outdoors under varying climactic conditions, at elevated levels, or in confined areas.

Additional requirements may be specified depending on needs of department and/or tasks required to complete work efforts.

This position is eligible for remote work, consistent with District policy.

$94,057.60 - $127,254.40 Annually

Very generous and comprehensive benefits package.