Sonoma Water Education Programs Specialist I
Position Information
Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) is looking for an experienced educator to join their team as a Water Education Programs Specialist I.
Responsibilities
As a Water Education Program Specialist I you will be responsible for developing, implementing, coordinating, and evaluating water and energy related educational programs for students, teachers, and community members. You will work to enhance water literacy and foster a deeper understanding of water resources, climate and energy, water conservation, and environmental stewardship through engaging hands-on learning experiences. You will also support community engagement initiatives and collaborate with partner organizations to expand the reach and impact of Sonoma Water's educational programs. Additional responsibilities include:
The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal, communication, organizational, and project management skills along with a collaborative, team-focused mindset and will also possess many of the following:
Sonoma Water is a special district formed by the California State Legislature in 1949 and is responsible for providing a safe and reliable water supply to its customers in Sonoma and Marin counties. Sonoma Water also maintains 75 miles of flood control channels and provides sanitation services. Employing approximately 250 employees, Sonoma Water consists of four divisions, including Engineering and Resource Planning, Environmental Resources, Business Services and External Affairs, and Water/Wastewater Operations and Maintenance. Sonoma Water supports the concept of environmental sustainability, focusing on renewable power sources, and strives to be a leader in its water use efficiency and fishery restoration programs.
Employees of Sonoma Water are employees of a special district and are not subject to the provisions of the Civil Service Ordinance of the County of Sonoma.
What We Offer
Benefits
Working at the County of Sonoma offers expansive opportunities for growth and development, the ability to be a part of a challenging and rewarding work environment, and the satisfaction of knowing you're working to better our communities. You can also look forward to flexible work arrangements and excellent benefits* including:
Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire be completed.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience and Education: Any combination of education, training, and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities listed. Normally, this would include college level course work in water related science, environmental studies, environmental law, education, political science, communications, public relations, or a closely related field; and one year of experience in the implementation of water-related programs in one or more of the following areas: community relations, public outreach, media, water use efficiency technology, teaching methods consistent with state-wide educational standards, and/or legislative processes at the federal and state level.
License: Possession of a valid driver's license at the appropriate level including special endorsements, as required by the State of California, may be required depending upon assignment to perform the essential job functions of the position.
The position advertised on this announcement requires possession of a valid California Driver’s License.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Working knowledge of: principles, practices and methods of water use efficiency and natural resource conservation; strategies and methods for effective educational program programs, methods of conservation program implementation and monitoring, including plumbing efficiency, landscaping and turf, and urban and non-urban water reuse; principles and techniques of establishing and maintaining effective public relations; English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; fundamentals of mass communication, public speaking, journalism, and social media; principles of graphic design and production; and techniques and methods of research, report writing and preparation of informational materials.
Some knowledge of: environmental principles and operation of water supply facilities and distribution systems; methods of water treatment and recycling, landscape design and installation practices; California State Science Standards; California Water Codes and related laws; environmental regulations and environmental enhancement and restoration methods related to operation and construction of water supply, flood control, renewable energy, recycled water, and wastewater treatment facilities; forecasting and statistics and their application in analysis; group dynamics as it relates to public organizations; modern office methods, procedures, and equipment, including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
Ability to: plan, develop, organize, and implement a wide variety of water-related programs; negotiate agreements with various agencies and special interests to facilitate program activities; speak effectively and persuasively before diverse groups; establish effective working relationships with other staff and with persons possessing a wide variety of divergent views; write and edit written materials for publication; compile concise reports, letters, newsletters and other written materials; coordinate educational and informational seminars and workshops; prepare and disseminate information to media and others; prepare a wide range of clear, concise, and informative reports, correspondence, and brochures; operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications; use the internet and social media to enhance public outreach.
Selection Procedure & Some Helpful Tips When Applying
Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire to be completed.
Responses to supplemental questions will be scored using position-specific criteria. Please provide specific and detailed responses of a reasonable length to allow for a thorough assessment of your qualifications. Responses that state, "See Resume" or "See Application" may be considered insufficient and therefore may not be scored.
The Selection Procedure Will Consist Of The Following Examination
An Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination (weight 100%) will be conducted to evaluate each applicant's application and supplemental questionnaire for satisfaction of minimum qualifications (pass/not pass); and for educational coursework, training, experience, knowledge, and abilities which relate to this position. Personally identifiable information (PII) is removed from the standard application fields and applicable attachments. This PII blind screening practice redacts a candidate’s personal information that could potentially influence or bias the scoring process. Personal information includes the applicant’s name, former last name, address, phone number, email, driver's license number, school name, education start and end dates, age, date of birth, gender, and race. This PII blind screening practice helps contribute to a fair and equitable examination process.
Each applicant will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Additional Information
A background investigation will be required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to candidates.
Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted online atwww.yourpath2sonomacounty.org. Paper applications may be submitted by person, fax (707-565-3770), email, or through the mail. All applications and appropriate supplemental information as outlined in the job announcement must be received by the time and date specified on the first page of this job announcement. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted.
The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.
HR Analyst: JT
HR Technician: VH
Important Note: Benefits described herein do not apply to Extra Help positions.
County of Sonoma Benefits: General*
These are some of the excellent benefits the County offers:
Paid Time Off: Competitive vacation accrual and sick leave accruals; additional management leave annually; 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year; and may be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) of Paid Parental Leave after 12 months of County employment.
Health Plan: Choose from nine health plans (three HMOs, three deductible HMOs, and three HSA-qualifying plans) with a generous County contribution to the premium (the contribution amount varies by bargaining unit). For more information, please see the appropriate MOU.
Retirement: Fully integrated with Social Security. For more information regarding eligibility, retirement contributions, and reciprocity with prior public service, please visit https://scretire.org/active-/-deferred/when-you-are-hired.
IRS 457 Plan: Pre-tax employee contribution up to the IRS annual maximum.
Retiree Medical: County contribution to a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits.
Student Loan Debt Relief: County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education.
Plus, excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, professional development, and more.
For answers to specific questions regarding the employment process and more details about benefits or retirement, please contact Human Resources at (707) 565-2331. Additional details about benefit and compensation packages can be found in the MOUs located at Labor Agreements & Salary Resolution. For specific information about health and welfare benefits, including plan options, coverage, and premium amounts, go to Human Resources or contact the Human Resources' Risk Management-Benefits Office at benefits@sonomacounty.gov or (707) 565-2900.
How did you first learn about this opportunity?
Please indicate if you would also be interested in future part-time or extra-help (temporary, intermittent, or seasonal employment) positions should they become available. Check all that apply.
This eligible list may be used for future bilingual (English/Spanish) positions. Please indicate if you are interested in bilingual positions and your level of proficiency.
Do you possess, or have the ability to obtain, a valid State of California Class C driver’s license by date of hire?
For this question, and all subsequent questions, provide sufficient information to allow for a thorough evaluation of your qualifications. Responses to supplemental questions will be scored using position-specific criteria and may be reviewed by hiring managers.
The Minimum Qualifications For This Position Include
06
Please describe your experience developing and facilitating educational programs or lessons in classroom, outdoor, or informal education settings. Include your experience developing curriculum or instructional activities, engaging participants in learning, and adapting instruction to meet the needs of different ages, backgrounds, or learning styles.
07
Please describe a project, educational program, or outreach initiative that you coordinated from planning through implementation. Describe your role, how you managed project logistics, timelines, competing priorities, and communication with partners and team members, as well as how you evaluated the success of the project or program.
08
Please describe your experience working with diverse community members, students, educators, or partner organizations on a community engagement effort, educational program, or collaborative initiative. Describe your role, the strategies you used to build effective working relationships, and the outcome.
Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) is looking for an experienced educator to join their team as a Water Education Programs Specialist I.
Responsibilities
As a Water Education Program Specialist I you will be responsible for developing, implementing, coordinating, and evaluating water and energy related educational programs for students, teachers, and community members. You will work to enhance water literacy and foster a deeper understanding of water resources, climate and energy, water conservation, and environmental stewardship through engaging hands-on learning experiences. You will also support community engagement initiatives and collaborate with partner organizations to expand the reach and impact of Sonoma Water's educational programs. Additional responsibilities include:
- Planning, developing, and facilitating Next Generation Science Standards based environmental education programs covering topics such as water-use efficiency, water quality, stormwater pollution prevention, climate change, renewable energy, fishery restoration efforts, watershed awareness, and how our community gets drinking water
- Coordinating field trips, classroom programs, teacher workshops, and other educational events or activities
- Marketing programs to eligible teachers through various methods such as social media, flyers, websites, and newsletters
- Developing and delivering professional learning opportunities for teachers and informal educators
- Training and supporting team members on the curriculum, program procedures, and best teaching practices for the educational programs
- Planning and implementing community outreach activities, workforce development initiatives and contests
- Assessing the success of educational programs and making changes to improve student learning, teacher satisfaction, equity, effectiveness, and relevancy
- Preparing program reports and public-facing documents
- Developing, updating, and maintaining educational curriculum and instructional resources
- Collaborating with schools, community partners, and internal departments to expand and strengthen educational opportunities
The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal, communication, organizational, and project management skills along with a collaborative, team-focused mindset and will also possess many of the following:
- A teaching credential and experience working in classroom and outdoor settings
- A Bachelor's degree with coursework in education, environmental studies, science, public relations, or a related field
- Working knowledge of curriculum development, child development, Next Generation Science Standards, basic environmental science principles, marketing and graphic design, and public outreach programs
- Experience coordinating educational programs, field trips, events, outreach activities or similar projects
- Experience building collaborative relationships with schools, educators, volunteers, community partners, and diverse audiences
- The ability to work independently while also working effectively as part of a team
- The ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities in a dynamic work environment
- Strong public speaking, presentation and written communication skills
- Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Cloud, website content management, graphic design and customer relationship management (CRM) software is desirable
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking and writing skills are highly desirable, but not required
Sonoma Water is a special district formed by the California State Legislature in 1949 and is responsible for providing a safe and reliable water supply to its customers in Sonoma and Marin counties. Sonoma Water also maintains 75 miles of flood control channels and provides sanitation services. Employing approximately 250 employees, Sonoma Water consists of four divisions, including Engineering and Resource Planning, Environmental Resources, Business Services and External Affairs, and Water/Wastewater Operations and Maintenance. Sonoma Water supports the concept of environmental sustainability, focusing on renewable power sources, and strives to be a leader in its water use efficiency and fishery restoration programs.
Employees of Sonoma Water are employees of a special district and are not subject to the provisions of the Civil Service Ordinance of the County of Sonoma.
What We Offer
Benefits
Working at the County of Sonoma offers expansive opportunities for growth and development, the ability to be a part of a challenging and rewarding work environment, and the satisfaction of knowing you're working to better our communities. You can also look forward to flexible work arrangements and excellent benefits* including:
- Hybrid Telework - A schedule that meets the needs of our staff, department operations, and the communities we serve may be available depending on the assignment
- Salary Advancement - A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full-time) for good work performance; eligibility for a salary increase for good performance every year thereafter, until reaching the top of the salary range
- Career Advancement - With time and good performance, the opportunity for advancement to Water Agency Programs Specialist II (annual salary up to $122,555)
- Paid Time Off - Competitive vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year
- County Paid Health Premium Contributions - 100% premium contribution for the majority of employee-only and employee + family health plan options
- Post-Retirement Health Reimbursement Arrangement - County contributions to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits
- Retirement - A pension fully integrated with Social Security
- Paid Parental Leave - May be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) after 12 months of County employment
- Additional Benefits- Excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance program, professional development, and more
- Student Loan Debt Relief – County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education
- Salary is negotiable within the established range. Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found in the Service Employees International Union Local 1021 Memorandum Of Understanding (SEIU MOU) and our Employee Benefits Directory.
Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire be completed.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience and Education: Any combination of education, training, and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities listed. Normally, this would include college level course work in water related science, environmental studies, environmental law, education, political science, communications, public relations, or a closely related field; and one year of experience in the implementation of water-related programs in one or more of the following areas: community relations, public outreach, media, water use efficiency technology, teaching methods consistent with state-wide educational standards, and/or legislative processes at the federal and state level.
License: Possession of a valid driver's license at the appropriate level including special endorsements, as required by the State of California, may be required depending upon assignment to perform the essential job functions of the position.
The position advertised on this announcement requires possession of a valid California Driver’s License.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Working knowledge of: principles, practices and methods of water use efficiency and natural resource conservation; strategies and methods for effective educational program programs, methods of conservation program implementation and monitoring, including plumbing efficiency, landscaping and turf, and urban and non-urban water reuse; principles and techniques of establishing and maintaining effective public relations; English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; fundamentals of mass communication, public speaking, journalism, and social media; principles of graphic design and production; and techniques and methods of research, report writing and preparation of informational materials.
Some knowledge of: environmental principles and operation of water supply facilities and distribution systems; methods of water treatment and recycling, landscape design and installation practices; California State Science Standards; California Water Codes and related laws; environmental regulations and environmental enhancement and restoration methods related to operation and construction of water supply, flood control, renewable energy, recycled water, and wastewater treatment facilities; forecasting and statistics and their application in analysis; group dynamics as it relates to public organizations; modern office methods, procedures, and equipment, including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
Ability to: plan, develop, organize, and implement a wide variety of water-related programs; negotiate agreements with various agencies and special interests to facilitate program activities; speak effectively and persuasively before diverse groups; establish effective working relationships with other staff and with persons possessing a wide variety of divergent views; write and edit written materials for publication; compile concise reports, letters, newsletters and other written materials; coordinate educational and informational seminars and workshops; prepare and disseminate information to media and others; prepare a wide range of clear, concise, and informative reports, correspondence, and brochures; operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications; use the internet and social media to enhance public outreach.
Selection Procedure & Some Helpful Tips When Applying
- Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.
- You should list all employers and positions held within the last ten years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.
- You may include history beyond ten years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, list out each position separately.
- Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.
Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire to be completed.
Responses to supplemental questions will be scored using position-specific criteria. Please provide specific and detailed responses of a reasonable length to allow for a thorough assessment of your qualifications. Responses that state, "See Resume" or "See Application" may be considered insufficient and therefore may not be scored.
The Selection Procedure Will Consist Of The Following Examination
An Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination (weight 100%) will be conducted to evaluate each applicant's application and supplemental questionnaire for satisfaction of minimum qualifications (pass/not pass); and for educational coursework, training, experience, knowledge, and abilities which relate to this position. Personally identifiable information (PII) is removed from the standard application fields and applicable attachments. This PII blind screening practice redacts a candidate’s personal information that could potentially influence or bias the scoring process. Personal information includes the applicant’s name, former last name, address, phone number, email, driver's license number, school name, education start and end dates, age, date of birth, gender, and race. This PII blind screening practice helps contribute to a fair and equitable examination process.
Each applicant will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Relevance of work history, related experience, and achieved level of education and/or training as described in the application and responses to the supplemental questions.
Additional Information
A background investigation will be required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to candidates.
Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted online atwww.yourpath2sonomacounty.org. Paper applications may be submitted by person, fax (707-565-3770), email, or through the mail. All applications and appropriate supplemental information as outlined in the job announcement must be received by the time and date specified on the first page of this job announcement. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted.
The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.
HR Analyst: JT
HR Technician: VH
Important Note: Benefits described herein do not apply to Extra Help positions.
County of Sonoma Benefits: General*
These are some of the excellent benefits the County offers:
Paid Time Off: Competitive vacation accrual and sick leave accruals; additional management leave annually; 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year; and may be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) of Paid Parental Leave after 12 months of County employment.
Health Plan: Choose from nine health plans (three HMOs, three deductible HMOs, and three HSA-qualifying plans) with a generous County contribution to the premium (the contribution amount varies by bargaining unit). For more information, please see the appropriate MOU.
Retirement: Fully integrated with Social Security. For more information regarding eligibility, retirement contributions, and reciprocity with prior public service, please visit https://scretire.org/active-/-deferred/when-you-are-hired.
IRS 457 Plan: Pre-tax employee contribution up to the IRS annual maximum.
Retiree Medical: County contribution to a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits.
Student Loan Debt Relief: County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education.
Plus, excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, professional development, and more.
For answers to specific questions regarding the employment process and more details about benefits or retirement, please contact Human Resources at (707) 565-2331. Additional details about benefit and compensation packages can be found in the MOUs located at Labor Agreements & Salary Resolution. For specific information about health and welfare benefits, including plan options, coverage, and premium amounts, go to Human Resources or contact the Human Resources' Risk Management-Benefits Office at benefits@sonomacounty.gov or (707) 565-2900.
- Important Notes: Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice.
How did you first learn about this opportunity?
- Careers in Government
- College or University
- County of Sonoma Human Resources Office
- Craigslist
- DiversityJobs
- Employee of Sonoma County
- Glassdoor
- GovernmentJobs.com
- Handshake
- Indeed
- Job Fair
- Latino Service Providers
- Los Cien
- Press Democrat
- sonoma-county.org/www.yourpath2sonomacounty.org
- Start Here!
- X (Twitter)
- Veterans Services Office
- Women's Organization or Group
- Other Internet Site
- Other Publication
Please indicate if you would also be interested in future part-time or extra-help (temporary, intermittent, or seasonal employment) positions should they become available. Check all that apply.
- I would also like to be considered for future part-time positions
- I would also like to be considered for future extra-help positions
- I am only interested in full-time positions
This eligible list may be used for future bilingual (English/Spanish) positions. Please indicate if you are interested in bilingual positions and your level of proficiency.
- Yes, I have basic (conversational) English/Spanish bilingual skills
- Yes, I have fluent (reading, writing, and conversational) English/Spanish bilingual skills
- No, I do not have English/Spanish bilingual skills, and/or I do not wish to be considered for a bilingual position
Do you possess, or have the ability to obtain, a valid State of California Class C driver’s license by date of hire?
- Yes
- No
For this question, and all subsequent questions, provide sufficient information to allow for a thorough evaluation of your qualifications. Responses to supplemental questions will be scored using position-specific criteria and may be reviewed by hiring managers.
The Minimum Qualifications For This Position Include
- One year of experience in the implementation of water-related programs in one or more of the following areas: community relations, public outreach, media, water use efficiency technology, teaching methods consistent with state-wide educational standards, and/or legislative processes at the federal and state level; and,
- College level course work in water related science, environmental studies, environmental law, education, political science, communications, public relations, or a closely related field
06
Please describe your experience developing and facilitating educational programs or lessons in classroom, outdoor, or informal education settings. Include your experience developing curriculum or instructional activities, engaging participants in learning, and adapting instruction to meet the needs of different ages, backgrounds, or learning styles.
07
Please describe a project, educational program, or outreach initiative that you coordinated from planning through implementation. Describe your role, how you managed project logistics, timelines, competing priorities, and communication with partners and team members, as well as how you evaluated the success of the project or program.
08
Please describe your experience working with diverse community members, students, educators, or partner organizations on a community engagement effort, educational program, or collaborative initiative. Describe your role, the strategies you used to build effective working relationships, and the outcome.
- Required Question