Education and Outreach Specialist
City of Bellingham, Bellingham, WA, United States
The City of Bellingham’s Public Works Department is seeking an Education and Outreach Specialist to support community education and engagement across a range of essential public services. Apply today!
The Education and Outreach Specialist performs a variety of paraprofessional work and field duties associated with education, outreach, information and behavior change programs, projects and activities in support of the Public Works Department. The position focuses on watersheds, stormwater, water quality and quantity, habitat, transportation, solid waste and water and wastewater treatment concepts that further the goals of the City's programs, projects, and policies. Responsibilities include designing, developing and implementing public involvement and education activities for projects and programs. Coordinates with City departments and other local agencies on efforts as directed.
SALARY AND BENEFITS INFORMATION This position will start at Step 1 ($31.69/hour). Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the Guild of Pacific Northwest Employees, Local 1937 Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy. The full hourly range for this position is $31.69–$41.35. For internal candidates, placement within the range is based on City Pay Placement Procedures.
At the City of Bellingham, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you thrive in both your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are well cared for. Here’s a closer look at the outstanding benefits that come with being part of our team. You can find more details on our employment benefits page and labor agreements page.
10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time
12 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday per year
8 hours sick leave accrued monthly
Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
Life insurance and long‑term disability coverage
Flexible spending accounts and medical insurance opt‑out program
Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Washington State Retirement plan (DRS) for retirement security
Optional 457 deferred compensation (Retirement Savings Plan) with employer match
Leave accruals are based on 1.0 FTE, accruals are pro‑rated if part‑time and require employees to be in paid status at least 120 hours/month.
Closing Date/Time: Fri. 04/10/26 4:30 PM Pacific Time
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
Designs and implements education and outreach techniques and programs using appropriate analysis and information gathering processes to obtain required information. Summarizes findings, makes recommendations and assists in implementing program goals and objectives that motivate community members to adopt behaviors that protect, conserve and improve our community.
Plans, organizes, coordinates and leads a variety of education and outreach and/or public information and involvement programs, events and activities (such as workshops, tours, field trips, public meetings, etc.) in support of Public Works programs. Emphasizes customer services that effectively convey science‑based information in a way that engages public dialogue, shares information or influences behavior change.
Utilizes knowledge and understanding of social marketing tools and strategies. Produces professional quality, creative, visually pleasing and informative communication materials for the community about Public Works programs (using various media resources such as writing news releases, updating web content, brochures, advertisements, displays and utility bill insert content and graphic design programs) to implement effective outreach campaigns to achieve program/project goals.
Works on education and outreach grants by contributing to project planning, budgeting, application and contract writing, project implementation and reporting processes. Monitors, tracks and ensures compliance with grant requirements and budget constraints.
Collaborates and networks with other professional organizations, agencies and educational institutions on topics relevant to Public Works in accordance with the City's Legacies and Strategic Commitments and Performance Measures.
Researches, analyzes, interprets and implements local, state and federal rules and regulations including Stormwater National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements and regulations on water conservation.
Facilitates efforts to improve internal environmental practices including reducing waste, conserving energy and water, reducing trips, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in support of Public Works programs and the City's Legacies and Strategic Commitments and Performance Measures.
Responds to questions and concerns from Public Works staff and other city personnel, as well as local agencies, organizations, utilities and the public. Meets with citizens, professional associations and community groups as required.
Trains, directs and reviews the work of extra labor staff, interns and volunteers assigned to assist with education and outreach programs.
ADDITIONAL WORK PERFORMED
Maintains program equipment and supplies, including keeping inventory, ordering and restocking supplies when needed, keeping equipment organized, functioning and clean, and properly disposing of out‑of‑date and unneeded materials.
Distributes program materials and associated messages, trains citizens in their use and installation as needed.
Maintains records and files, including project/program records, equipment and material purchasing and accounting. Makes purchases for program materials with approval.
Performs related duties as assigned within the scope of this classification.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in a variety of settings. Daily work takes place in an office setting. Other venues include classrooms, the water and wastewater treatment plants, parks facilities, public venues and outdoor sites at various urban creeks, including exposure to the elements, difficult terrain and strong odors. Frequently interacts with the public and with professionals in the field. Employee works occasional irregular hours including evenings and weekends when required. Employees are required to use appropriate safety equipment and follow standard safety practices.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Infrequently move and transport approximately 50 pounds with assistance.
Detect and evaluate sound quality and distinguish tones on a computer or other equipment.
Operate and detect information on a computer, keyboard, other equipment or typewritten pages.
Communicate effectively with, receive information from and convey information to other people.
Operate a motor vehicle.
Move between worksites.
Tolerate strong odors.
QUALIFICATIONS
BA/BS in communications, environmental education or closely related field required.
Two years of experience developing and presenting educational materials and programs.
Coursework, training or experience with program design, program evaluation and social marketing preferred.
An equivalent combination of education, experience and training sufficient to provide the applicant with the skills, knowledge and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the job will be considered.
REQUIRED CLEARANCE AND CERTIFICATIONS
Employment contingent upon passing a criminal convictions check, local background check and fingerprinting. Subject to re‑check every five years.
Verification of ability to work in the United States by date of hire.
Valid Washington State Driver’s license at time of hire, and good driving record. Candidates must submit three‑year driving abstract prior to hire.
Ability to secure and maintain a valid First Aid and CPR certification within six months of hire.
You are encouraged to print a copy of this job announcement for your reference as the process moves along.
Please ensure your application is complete and all required information has been provided. Standard completeness means all application fields (contact information, personal information, education, work experience, references and supplemental questions). Application materials should comprehensively document your experience and skills related to the position responsibilities and experience/training requirements. As part of the City’s commitment to reducing bias in the hiring process, Human Resources redacts personally identifiable information for reviewers. Only the documents listed as required will be reviewed.
APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS
Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must provide specific, detailed information so an initial determination can be made regarding your level of qualifications for this position. Applicant status will be updated on or around
April 15, 2026 .
If there are nine (9) or more qualified candidates:
Experience and Training Rating: Applicants that meet minimum qualifications will go through an Experience and Training Rating. Applicant status will be updated on or around
April 23, 2026 .
The top eight (8) scoring applicants from the Experience and Training Rating will be invited to participate in an Oral Board Interview, tentatively scheduled for the week of
May 4, 2026 .
If eight (8) or fewer candidates meet the minimum qualifications, all will be invited to the Oral Board Interviews, tentatively scheduled for the week of
May 4, 2026 .
Applicants will be notified via email of Final Scores & Ranks. The final ranking of the register will be based on total scores for the following:
If eight (8) or fewer candidates meet the minimum qualifications, the Oral Board Interview will be 100% of overall score. Candidates scoring a 60% or higher on the Oral Board Interview will be placed on the eligibility list.
If there are nine (9) or more applicants that meet minimum qualifications, the Experience and Training Rating will be 40% of overall score and Oral Board Interview will be 60% of overall score. Candidates scoring a 60% or higher on the Oral Board Interview will be placed on the eligibility list.
Final candidates will be referred to the department for additional examination, assessment, or test.
This recruitment process will create a Civil Service eligibility register that will be used to fill current and future vacancies as they become available. There is currently 1 full‑time vacancy in Public Works. This position is represented by a union.
If you wish to claim Veterans’ Preference Points, please complete the Veterans Scoring Criteria Declaration Form and upload it to your application with your DD214.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY The City of Bellingham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not make decisions on the basis of an individual's race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, age (40+), disability, retaliation, sexual orientation or gender identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other basis prohibited by local, state or federal law. All are encouraged to apply for employment.
FAIR HIRING PRACTICES
The City provides individuals who have been arrested or convicted of a criminal offense an equal and fair opportunity to obtain employment.
The City will not inquire about an applicant's criminal history until after a conditional job offer has been made.
The City will disregard the prior arrest and conviction record of an otherwise qualified individual unless the offense is directly related to the job position for which the individual has applied.
The City will notify an otherwise qualified applicant about a potentially disqualifying conviction and give the applicant an opportunity to submit information regarding the accuracy of the criminal records as well as evidence of mitigation or rehabilitation, as appropriate.
Please note: Candidates will receive updates regarding application status via email. Please be sure to check your email frequently, including your spam folders for messages filtered by your email providers.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The Education and Outreach Specialist performs a variety of paraprofessional work and field duties associated with education, outreach, information and behavior change programs, projects and activities in support of the Public Works Department. The position focuses on watersheds, stormwater, water quality and quantity, habitat, transportation, solid waste and water and wastewater treatment concepts that further the goals of the City's programs, projects, and policies. Responsibilities include designing, developing and implementing public involvement and education activities for projects and programs. Coordinates with City departments and other local agencies on efforts as directed.
SALARY AND BENEFITS INFORMATION This position will start at Step 1 ($31.69/hour). Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the Guild of Pacific Northwest Employees, Local 1937 Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy. The full hourly range for this position is $31.69–$41.35. For internal candidates, placement within the range is based on City Pay Placement Procedures.
At the City of Bellingham, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you thrive in both your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are well cared for. Here’s a closer look at the outstanding benefits that come with being part of our team. You can find more details on our employment benefits page and labor agreements page.
10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time
12 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday per year
8 hours sick leave accrued monthly
Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
Life insurance and long‑term disability coverage
Flexible spending accounts and medical insurance opt‑out program
Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Washington State Retirement plan (DRS) for retirement security
Optional 457 deferred compensation (Retirement Savings Plan) with employer match
Leave accruals are based on 1.0 FTE, accruals are pro‑rated if part‑time and require employees to be in paid status at least 120 hours/month.
Closing Date/Time: Fri. 04/10/26 4:30 PM Pacific Time
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
Designs and implements education and outreach techniques and programs using appropriate analysis and information gathering processes to obtain required information. Summarizes findings, makes recommendations and assists in implementing program goals and objectives that motivate community members to adopt behaviors that protect, conserve and improve our community.
Plans, organizes, coordinates and leads a variety of education and outreach and/or public information and involvement programs, events and activities (such as workshops, tours, field trips, public meetings, etc.) in support of Public Works programs. Emphasizes customer services that effectively convey science‑based information in a way that engages public dialogue, shares information or influences behavior change.
Utilizes knowledge and understanding of social marketing tools and strategies. Produces professional quality, creative, visually pleasing and informative communication materials for the community about Public Works programs (using various media resources such as writing news releases, updating web content, brochures, advertisements, displays and utility bill insert content and graphic design programs) to implement effective outreach campaigns to achieve program/project goals.
Works on education and outreach grants by contributing to project planning, budgeting, application and contract writing, project implementation and reporting processes. Monitors, tracks and ensures compliance with grant requirements and budget constraints.
Collaborates and networks with other professional organizations, agencies and educational institutions on topics relevant to Public Works in accordance with the City's Legacies and Strategic Commitments and Performance Measures.
Researches, analyzes, interprets and implements local, state and federal rules and regulations including Stormwater National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements and regulations on water conservation.
Facilitates efforts to improve internal environmental practices including reducing waste, conserving energy and water, reducing trips, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in support of Public Works programs and the City's Legacies and Strategic Commitments and Performance Measures.
Responds to questions and concerns from Public Works staff and other city personnel, as well as local agencies, organizations, utilities and the public. Meets with citizens, professional associations and community groups as required.
Trains, directs and reviews the work of extra labor staff, interns and volunteers assigned to assist with education and outreach programs.
ADDITIONAL WORK PERFORMED
Maintains program equipment and supplies, including keeping inventory, ordering and restocking supplies when needed, keeping equipment organized, functioning and clean, and properly disposing of out‑of‑date and unneeded materials.
Distributes program materials and associated messages, trains citizens in their use and installation as needed.
Maintains records and files, including project/program records, equipment and material purchasing and accounting. Makes purchases for program materials with approval.
Performs related duties as assigned within the scope of this classification.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in a variety of settings. Daily work takes place in an office setting. Other venues include classrooms, the water and wastewater treatment plants, parks facilities, public venues and outdoor sites at various urban creeks, including exposure to the elements, difficult terrain and strong odors. Frequently interacts with the public and with professionals in the field. Employee works occasional irregular hours including evenings and weekends when required. Employees are required to use appropriate safety equipment and follow standard safety practices.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Infrequently move and transport approximately 50 pounds with assistance.
Detect and evaluate sound quality and distinguish tones on a computer or other equipment.
Operate and detect information on a computer, keyboard, other equipment or typewritten pages.
Communicate effectively with, receive information from and convey information to other people.
Operate a motor vehicle.
Move between worksites.
Tolerate strong odors.
QUALIFICATIONS
BA/BS in communications, environmental education or closely related field required.
Two years of experience developing and presenting educational materials and programs.
Coursework, training or experience with program design, program evaluation and social marketing preferred.
An equivalent combination of education, experience and training sufficient to provide the applicant with the skills, knowledge and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the job will be considered.
REQUIRED CLEARANCE AND CERTIFICATIONS
Employment contingent upon passing a criminal convictions check, local background check and fingerprinting. Subject to re‑check every five years.
Verification of ability to work in the United States by date of hire.
Valid Washington State Driver’s license at time of hire, and good driving record. Candidates must submit three‑year driving abstract prior to hire.
Ability to secure and maintain a valid First Aid and CPR certification within six months of hire.
You are encouraged to print a copy of this job announcement for your reference as the process moves along.
Please ensure your application is complete and all required information has been provided. Standard completeness means all application fields (contact information, personal information, education, work experience, references and supplemental questions). Application materials should comprehensively document your experience and skills related to the position responsibilities and experience/training requirements. As part of the City’s commitment to reducing bias in the hiring process, Human Resources redacts personally identifiable information for reviewers. Only the documents listed as required will be reviewed.
APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS
Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must provide specific, detailed information so an initial determination can be made regarding your level of qualifications for this position. Applicant status will be updated on or around
April 15, 2026 .
If there are nine (9) or more qualified candidates:
Experience and Training Rating: Applicants that meet minimum qualifications will go through an Experience and Training Rating. Applicant status will be updated on or around
April 23, 2026 .
The top eight (8) scoring applicants from the Experience and Training Rating will be invited to participate in an Oral Board Interview, tentatively scheduled for the week of
May 4, 2026 .
If eight (8) or fewer candidates meet the minimum qualifications, all will be invited to the Oral Board Interviews, tentatively scheduled for the week of
May 4, 2026 .
Applicants will be notified via email of Final Scores & Ranks. The final ranking of the register will be based on total scores for the following:
If eight (8) or fewer candidates meet the minimum qualifications, the Oral Board Interview will be 100% of overall score. Candidates scoring a 60% or higher on the Oral Board Interview will be placed on the eligibility list.
If there are nine (9) or more applicants that meet minimum qualifications, the Experience and Training Rating will be 40% of overall score and Oral Board Interview will be 60% of overall score. Candidates scoring a 60% or higher on the Oral Board Interview will be placed on the eligibility list.
Final candidates will be referred to the department for additional examination, assessment, or test.
This recruitment process will create a Civil Service eligibility register that will be used to fill current and future vacancies as they become available. There is currently 1 full‑time vacancy in Public Works. This position is represented by a union.
If you wish to claim Veterans’ Preference Points, please complete the Veterans Scoring Criteria Declaration Form and upload it to your application with your DD214.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY The City of Bellingham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not make decisions on the basis of an individual's race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, age (40+), disability, retaliation, sexual orientation or gender identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other basis prohibited by local, state or federal law. All are encouraged to apply for employment.
FAIR HIRING PRACTICES
The City provides individuals who have been arrested or convicted of a criminal offense an equal and fair opportunity to obtain employment.
The City will not inquire about an applicant's criminal history until after a conditional job offer has been made.
The City will disregard the prior arrest and conviction record of an otherwise qualified individual unless the offense is directly related to the job position for which the individual has applied.
The City will notify an otherwise qualified applicant about a potentially disqualifying conviction and give the applicant an opportunity to submit information regarding the accuracy of the criminal records as well as evidence of mitigation or rehabilitation, as appropriate.
Please note: Candidates will receive updates regarding application status via email. Please be sure to check your email frequently, including your spam folders for messages filtered by your email providers.
#J-18808-Ljbffr