Clean Energy Siting & Permitting Regional Coordinator – Central Region

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Boston, MA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) is seeking a Regional Coordinator for the Central Region within the Clean Energy Siting & Permitting Division. This role involves working with city and town officials and stakeholders within their region to support the department’s work related to the siting and permitting of small clean energy infrastructure. The 2024 Climate Act established the Clean Energy Siting & Permitting Division to set standards and requirements for small clean energy infrastructure facilities (e.g., generation projects smaller than 25 MW, new transmission and distribution infrastructure less than 10 miles long, or storage less than 100 MWh) through regulations and guidance. The Division provides technical support and assistance to municipalities, project proponents, and community groups. This position supports the Commonwealth’s efforts to increase energy supply, meet mandated emissions reductions, and positions Massachusetts as a leader in tackling energy and climate challenges. The Regional Coordinator supports the implementation of the new local siting and permitting process, increases meaningful engagement among stakeholders, and ensures alignment with the Commonwealth’s energy and biodiversity initiatives. They work closely with the Division and other DOER staff to develop rules and guidelines, provide technical assistance, and share knowledge. Regional Coordinators act as the main liaison between municipalities and the Division, understanding needs, providing clarity on Department rules, and recommending policy changes. They facilitate understanding of Department rules through outreach, presentations, workshops, and creating tools and resources for municipal staff and stakeholders. This position requires travel, a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and attendance at evening meetings. Regular team meetings in Boston are also expected at least once a month. The Regional Coordinator reports to the Division Director and consults with other DOER and EEA policy staff as needed.

Requirements

• At least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time technical or professional experience in urban or regional planning, environmental planning, transportation planning or land use planning.
• Of which at least two years must have been in a professional capacity.
• Any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
• I. A Bachelor's degree with a major in urban or regional planning, environmental planning, urban studies, architecture, landscape architecture, civil, environmental, or transportation engineering or environmental sciences may be substituted for two years of the required (A) experience.
• II. A Graduate degree with a major in urban or regional planning, environmental planning, urban studies, architecture, landscape architecture, civil, environmental, or transportation engineering or environmental studies may be substituted for three years of the required (A) experience and one year of the required (B) experience.
• Educational substitutions will only be permitted for a maximum of three years of the required experience.
• Substitutions will only be permitted for a maximum of one year of the required (B) experience.
• Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation is required.

Nice To Haves

• Resides within Central Massachusetts or is willing to move to the region.
• Strong familiarity with Central Massachusetts, including its governmental structures, norms, and care-abouts.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of municipal government.
• Ability to communicate complex concepts in simple terms, both verbally and through written materials.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Comfortability with public speaking and ability to make effective presentations.
• Ability to work with a broad range of constituencies with conflicting perspectives.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and experience.
• Knowledge of the state’s clean energy goals and DOER’s role in contributing to them.
• Experience in land use, planning, and municipal bylaws/ordinances.
• Familiarity with clean energy systems and energy policy and/or clean energy project development.
• Experience developing training materials for both broad and specific audiences is a plus.
• Ability to work across complex organizations, such as multi-department public agencies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary liaison between municipalities and the Division on clean energy siting and permitting, identifying local needs and providing guidance and technical assistance.
• Support municipalities in implementing new local clean energy siting and permitting processes and understanding applicable Department rules, policies, and requirements.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with municipal officials, community partners, and other stakeholders through ongoing outreach and engagement.
• Plan and facilitate presentations, workshops, meetings, and other outreach activities to promote understanding of clean energy siting and permitting requirements.
• Develop guidance, tools, resources, and best practices to assist municipalities and stakeholders in navigating clean energy siting and permitting processes.
• Collaborate with Division staff and other DOER and EEA policy teams to develop rules, guidelines, policies, and implementation strategies.
• Coordinate with the Green Communities Division, Renewable and Alternative Energy Division, and other relevant programs on municipal relations and renewable energy initiatives.
• Identify recurring municipal challenges and recommend policy, regulatory, or process improvements to Division leadership.
• Support alignment of municipal clean energy siting and permitting efforts with the Commonwealth’s broader energy, climate, and biodiversity goals.
• Travel throughout the Commonwealth and participate in evening and other stakeholder meetings, as well as regular Division team meetings in Boston.

Benefits

• Outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package.
• Work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree