The California Independent System Operator (ISO) manages the flow of electricity across the high-voltage, long-distance power lines that make up 80 percent of California's power grid. We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by "keeping the lights on" 24/7.

As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market that is designed to diversify resources and lower prices. It also grants equal access to 25,865 circuit-miles of power lines and reduces barriers to diverse resources competing to bring power to customers.

The California ISO's function is often compared to that of air traffic controllers. It would be grossly unfair for air traffic controllers to represent one airline and profit from allowing that company's planes to go through before others. In the same way, the California ISO operates independently—managing the electron traffic on a power grid we do not own—making sure electricity is safely delivered to utilities and consumers on time and reliably.

Under the general direction of the manager, facilitates communication both internally and externally, and writes internal and external materials about ISO activities and programs, including news releases, media responses, website content, social media posts and other related materials. Serves as media spokesperson on various ISO related issues, including serving as a rotating on-call media representative. Facilitates media interviews with other ISO subject matter experts, and provides guidance and support to ISO staff when media contact is requested.

What's In it for You

Our purpose is to lead the way to tomorrow's energy network. Make a difference and impact millions of people who depend on electricity in their everyday lives.

• You get to work on interesting and challenging assignments that will help grow your skill set.
• You will work in an extremely collaborative environment inside our LEED certified Folsom, California campus.
• You will be challenged, be a part of a winning team, and your contributions will be rewarded and recognized.

What You Will Be Doing

• Responsible for relationships with members of the media and general public, including serving as spokesperson for the organization and responding to news media inquiries for information about ISO activities. Provides guidance and support to ISO subject matter experts who have contact with the media, public, and governing bodies to assist with enhancing and maintaining a positive corporate image. Writes and distributes internal talking points and key statistics.
• Writes, updates and maintains content for internal and external websites to keep web visitors accurately informed on various subjects.
• Researches and writes material to educate employees on important and timely issues facing the organization.
• Stays up-to-date on local, national, industry and trade news affecting the ISO, and keeps management and staff informed about pertinent news.
• Writes and posts relevant information to the various ISO social media channels, including Twitter and Facebook. Edits periodic reports to improve readability and identify the target audience.

Level of Education and Discipline

• A Bachelor’s degree (BA, BS) or equivalent education, training or experience in Communications, Journalism or related field. 
• Master’s Degree preferred.

Amount of Experience

• Equivalent years of education and training, plus two (2) years or more of related experience.

Type of Experience

• Corporate communications, public relations, journalism, or marketing experience.
• “On air" experience and presence for electronic media interviews, and knowledge of electric utility issues and operations.

Additional skills and abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication and documentation skills required, with a demonstrated attention to detail.
• Ability to use deductive reasoning and analytical thinking with sound judgement and decision-making skills
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills are also essential.
• Must be self-starting and willing and able to work independently in a dynamic corporate organization under pressure of tight deadlines and aggressive expectations
• Problem solving skills with the ability to influence others without direct authority
• Must be able to work effectively in a team environment as facilitator and team member.
• Self-motivated, problem solving skills and the ability to influence others without direct authority
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office Suite

**We will also consider applicants for an Sr Public Information Officer position. This position requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent education, training or experience in Communications, Journalism or related field and five (5) or more years of experience. Master’s degree preferred.**