Responsibilities

• The Communications Manager develops, implements and manages effective communications, marketing and public outreach programs to educate the public about the services provided by Augusta Water and the Augusta Regional Landfill. This role serves as a key liaison with the community, media, schools, and other organizations, promoting awareness and understanding of Augusta Water’s operations.
• Create, coordinate, and distribute internal and external communications, marketing, and outreach materials, including newsletters, weekly digests, event flyers, annual reports, and company announcements, signage, presentations, and other visual content; assist with graphic design and implement production.
• Plan, coordinate, and deliver public outreach and educational programs; build partnerships with schools and community organizations; and represent Augusta Water through regularly scheduled presentations, tours, and community events.
• Serve as the primary media contact and organizational spokesperson for routine inquiries and public information requests
• Establish and maintain relationships with local media outlets and community organizations.
• Serve as organizational spokesperson during emergency events and service disruptions, including boil water notices and other critical communications.
• Coordinate simulations and drills for public alert and emergency communication scenarios.
• Draft pre-approved templates or notices for emergency communications, boil water notices, or service interruptions.
• Develop and manage content on social media and company websites for Augusta Water and the Augusta Regional Landfill.
• May work with third-party vendors to develop marketing and educational materials, procure services, manage contracts, and ensure maximum value for Augusta Water.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Education, Environmental Science, or a similar field; or equivalent work experience is highly preferred.
• Minimum of two years’ experience in marketing, education, public outreach, or communications, including social media pages and websites management is highly preferred.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office (particularly Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), Adobe Creative Suite, and Canva is required.
• Experience with water, wastewater, and/or solid waste utilities is highly preferred.
• Experience working with third-party vendors, including procuring services, managing contracts, and ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality deliverables is preferred.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Must possess strong public speaking and written communication skills; able to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints.
• Most possess a valid Virginia Driver’s License
• Willingness to travel between company locations and work a flexible schedule that may include nights, weekends, and on-call duty.
• Ability to write reports, articles, and other content using original or innovative techniques or style.
• High level of attention to detail.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

Preferred

• Experience with water, wastewater, and/or solid waste utilities is highly preferred.
• Experience working with third-party vendors, including procuring services, managing contracts, and ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality deliverables is preferred.

Benefits

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance