External Affairs Manager

The State Water Contractors (SWC) are seeking an External Affairs Manager to serve as the organization’s lead strategist for communications, public affairs, and legislative engagement related to the State Water Project (SWP). The External Affairs Manager will (1) engage with media, legislators, SWC members, and the public; (2) advise SWC leadership on communications strategy, policy positioning, and reputational risk; (3) represent member agencies’ interests in external affairs and advocacy; and (4) collaborate closely with the SWC Board, member agencies, and partner organizations.

The SWC is a statewide, mutual benefit organization representing 27 public water agencies that collectively deliver water to more than 27 million Californians and 750,000 acres of agricultural lands through the SWP. 

Essential Duties

• Leads the development and execution of a comprehensive external affairs strategy to advance SWC priorities across media, legislative, regulatory, and public audiences.
• Advises executive leadership on communications, legislative developments, and stakeholder engagement strategies, including high-profile and sensitive issues.
• Directs the creation of strategic communications materials, including press statements, reports, presentations, speeches, and multimedia content.
• Monitors and analyzes legislation, regulatory actions, and budgets affecting the SWP; develops positions and coordinates advocacy efforts with SWC leadership, member agencies, and partners.
• Serves as a spokesperson and liaison with media, legislators, regulators, and stakeholders; manages media relations, including crisis communications.
• Coordinates closely with the Department of Water Resources (DWR), member agency public affairs teams, and external advocates to ensure aligned messaging and strategy.
• Oversees public outreach initiatives, consultants, and contracts; evaluates performance and implements improvements.
• Translates complex technical and policy issues into clear, accessible messaging for diverse audiences.
• Prepares briefings, reports, and updates for the General Manager, Board of Directors, and member agencies.
• Provides high-level staff support to the General Manager, ensuring effective communication and documentation of key initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

The Ideal Candidate

Will Possess:

• Deep knowledge of public affairs, strategic communications, and media relations.
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes, particularly in California water policy.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze policy proposals and translate them into actionable strategies.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills across formats and audiences.
• Proven experience managing complex, high-stakes communications and stakeholder environments.
• Strong leadership, collaboration, and project management capabilities.
• Sound judgment, political acumen, and the ability to operate effectively in sensitive or high-visibility situations.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in communications, public relations, political science, business administration, or a related field.

Minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible experience in public affairs, communications, media relations, or a related field.

Compensation and Benefits

The monthly salary range for this at-will position is anticipated to be $17,000 to $21,000, depending on qualifications and experience. Salary is supplemented by a comprehensive benefits package, including participation in CalPERS healthcare and retirement, deferred compensation options, and dental and vision coverage. Additional benefits include life insurance, paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and other employer-sponsored programs. SWC does not participate in Social Security but does participate in Medicare.

HOW TO APPLY

Submit a comprehensive resume by April 17, 2026 that includes a written press release, statement, fact sheet or other written material that you were primarily responsible for creating and presenting.

State Water Contractors

1121 L Street, Suite 1050

Sacramento, CA 95814

Attn: Linda Standlee

Send questions and resume to: lstandlee@swc.org

Interviews are anticipated the week of May 4, 2026.