External Affairs Intern

About the Internship: Join Virginia American Water as an External Affairs Intern and join a team of high-performing professionals who are dedicated to making a positive impact the communities we serve. Virginia American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water company in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 384,000 people.

• Gain firsthand experience in how water utilities support communities beyond providing water and wastewater service.
• Collaborate with professionals to assist with external affairs and community relations activities, supporting government affairs and policy objectives.

Key Accountabilities

• Support external affairs and government affairs staff.
• Organize, prepare, and execute community relations events, outreach to key external stakeholders, and special events and projects.
• Maintain “event tracker” to include details of event (date, time, location and volunteers, volunteer hours)
• Research and prepare information and reports for internal and external meetings, events, and presentations.
• Conduct online research to efficiently find, and evaluate credible information from digital sources, search engines and online databases
• Support activities related to charitable giving program

Knowledge/Skills

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Analytical Skills: Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Organizational Skills: Demonstrated organizational and administrative abilities.
• Independent Worker: Ability to work independently and manage time across multiple projects and deadlines.
• Collaborative: Seek input and coordinate with staff.
• Detail-Oriented: Conduct thorough analyses and evaluations, resulting in timely decisions and recommendations.
• Technical Proficiency: Good working knowledge of computer programs, databases, and software.

Experience/Education

• Currently enrolled in a Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Public Administration, undergraduate degree program, or a relevant program from an accredited school.
• Minimum of 2 years of completed coursework.
• Previous experience with various Social Media platforms

Travel Requirements

• Some travel expected (approximately 25% evenings/weekends).

Other

• Valid Driver’s License.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Competencies

Plans & Aligns

Decision Making

Communicates Effectively

Builds Networks

Action Oriented