Website Groundwork
About the Opportunity
Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities is seeking a Clean Energy Specialist to support our Michigan Homegrown Power Campaign. The ideal candidate will be passionate and knowledgeable about advancing the local and regional clean energy economy and working with diverse stakeholders, including local government officials, nonprofit partners, and renewable energy developers. Successful candidates will have a demonstrated commitment to advancing renewable energy opportunities in northern Michigan communities. This grant-funded position is full-time and will report to Groundwork’s Climate and Environment Program Director. At Groundwork, the candidate will join a driven team of individuals who are advancing policy solutions and projects that are pragmatic, practical, caring, and visionary. We strive to create a positive, collaborative, healthy, and inspired working environment that gives the staff the support to be the leaders in their field. We are optimistic about Michigan’s future and believe in a thriving local farm and food economy; stronger, more walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly towns and villages; cleaner sources of energy, and climate solutions that support a more equitable world for all. The researchers, writers, advocates, system-changemakers, and coalition-builders that make up the Groundwork staff are passionately committed to realizing this vision.
Responsibilities
The Clean Energy Specialist will be responsible for fostering favorable local zoning decisions and educating rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects in northern Michigan. Key responsibilities include:
- Support Positive Municipal Zoning and Planning for Renewable Energy Projects: Promote zoning regulations that allow for the siting of large-scale solar and other renewable energy projects. Participate in and promote planning and zoning training sessions for planning commissioners and staff.
- Rapid Response Support for Proposed Clean Energy Projects: Develop a rapid response framework to provide immediate support for renewable energy projects in the region, including fostering relationships with developers, local government officials, and community leaders to keep projects moving forward.
- Spur Clean Energy Development in Rural Electric Cooperatives and Municipal Utilities: Educate and engage co-op board members, staff, and municipal utility leaders on the benefits of clean energy. Organize events and meetings to build collaboration among rural electric co-ops and municipal utilities to advance clean energy commitments.
- Engagement and Advocacy: Represent Groundwork in meetings with local leaders, zoning boards, rural electric co-ops, and other stakeholders to advocate for renewable energy projects. Host community engagement events to rally local support for clean energy.
- Collaborative Efforts: Work closely with solar developers, municipal utilities, tribal nations, and other project partners to bundle demand for renewable energy projects and secure large-scale solar development opportunities.
Candidate Profile
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- At least two years of experience in clean energy advocacy, zoning, rural organizing, or related fields.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, rural electric cooperative leaders, and local communities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- A strong commitment to Groundwork’s mission and programs.
- Passion for advancing renewable energy opportunities in rural Michigan communities.
- Experience working with rural electric cooperatives or municipal utilities.
- Proven ability to build relationships with decision-makers and grassroots community leaders.
Compensation and Benefits
This is a full-time position offering a competitive salary range of $48,000–$53,000 annually, based on experience. Groundwork offers flexible work hours and a positive, team-oriented work environment. This position is supported through grant funding and is dependent on the continuation of that funding.
To apply for this job please visit groundworkcenter.org.