Communications Officer in Kent

Are you a natural storyteller who can turn complex engineering plans into engaging community conversations? Do you want to play a vital role in protecting the reputation of a company that provides one of life's most essential resources? If you're looking for a role where your work has a tangible impact on the world around you, this is it. As our Engineering Communications Officer, you’ll be the bridge between our major infrastructure projects and the communities we serve. You’ll spend your days crafting bespoke campaigns, managing events, and navigating the fast‑paced world of media relations. Based in Snodland, you'll be part of a team that values fresh ideas and provides the autonomy to see them through.

Main responsibilities

• Targeted Campaigning: develop a deep understanding of our communities and identify key stakeholders to create campaigns that reach broad audiences with the right message.
• Content Creation: draft high‑quality materials including briefing notes, press releases, website copy, and social media content such as videos.
• Event Management: organise and attend both in‑person and virtual community events that "open our audiences’ eyes to water".
• Media Relations: identify opportunities for positive coverage, manage media interviews, and brief spokespeople confidently.
• Crisis Management: join our out‑of‑hours standby rota (approximately one week in four) to help manage communications during emergencies.
• Simplifying Complexity: take technical, complex engineering information and turn it into easy‑to‑understand materials for the public.
• Stakeholder Liaison: work closely with designers, photographers, and contractors to bring your PR materials and events to life.

Experience / Skills / Qualifications

• Education: a degree‑level qualification in a communication or PR‑related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Professional Background: solid experience in journalism (TV, radio, or print) or public relations/communications (either agency or in‑house).
• Technical Skills: strong skills in strategic planning, copywriting, media relations, and crisis communications management.
• Media Confidence: essential experience and knowledge of the press, with the ability to deal confidently with media and stakeholders.
• Flexibility: a full driving licence and the willingness to participate in a standby rota.
• Adaptability: the ability to handle multiple projects at once and remain calm under pressure.

Benefits package

• Excellent stakeholder pension scheme, up to 10% employer contribution.
• 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays per annum, increasing to 6 weeks with length of service.
• Flexible annual leave policy to buy or sell holiday leave.
• Paid volunteering days.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Health cash plan.
• Life assurance.
• Wellbeing related benefits.

Recruitment and application information

To apply for this position, please submit your CV on our career’s website. It is necessary for you to have the legal right to work in the UK when you begin employment with South East Water. Additionally, as part of the employment offer, you will need to pass background, identity, and employment referencing checks.

Compensation package

£32,938 plus car allowance. South East Water is an equal opportunity employer – we recognise diversity across age, race, gender, ethnicity, religion and identity. We are committed to fair treatment for all employees and will provide an inclusive environment.