Public Affairs & Communications Leader - Water Utility

Summary; Vail (CO); On-site; USD 132,000 - 198,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing stipend

Relocation assistance

PTO

Paid holidays

Parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Wellness program

Retirement plans

Job summary

Eagle River Water & Sanitation District (ERWSD) is seeking an experienced Government and Public Relations Manager to lead public communications, community outreach, and emergency communication plans for the Vail area. You will serve as ERWSD’s Public Information Officer, guiding branding, media relations, and content strategy across digital and print channels.

You will lead a team, advise the CEO/General Manager, and collaborate with leadership on board and government relations matters, ensuring

Qualifications

• 7+ years in strategic communications, public relations or related field.
• 5+ years leadership experience with diverse teams and cross-unit projects.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills for executive and public audiences.
• Experience advising executives on strategy, messaging, and public-facing decisions.
• Translate complex technical information into clear communications.
• Experience developing strategic messaging and integrated campaigns.
• Experience managing social media, digital communications, and content strategy.
• Experience in media relations, crisis communications and public information.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead ERWSD’s communications strategy aligned with strategic priorities.
• Lead writer/editor for executive and high-visibility communications.
• Oversee digital and social media strategy, content, and campaigns.
• Serve as Public Information Officer and primary media spokesperson.
• Lead emergency and crisis communications and incident support.
• Lead public outreach, community engagement, and stakeholder events.
• Support grant program development and reporting.
• Coordinate Board communications and materials.

Skills

Leadership experience

Executive advisor

Strategic communications

Crisis communications

Media relations

Public information officer

Content strategy

Social media management

Public speaking

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications

Tools

Photography

Videography

Graphic design

Website CMS platforms

Digital content production tools

Job description

Eagle River Water & Sanitation District (ERWSD) is seeking an experienced Government and Public Relations Manager to lead public communications, community outreach, and emergency communication plans for the Vail area. You will serve as ERWSD’s Public Information Officer, guiding branding, media relations, and content strategy across digital and print channels.

You will lead a team, advise the CEO/General Manager, and collaborate with leadership on board and government relations matters, ensuring