Consumer Education & Engagement Specialist

Government of Alberta•Edmonton, AB

6d•CA$76,613 - CA$100,492•Onsite

About The Position

The Ministry of Affordability and Utilities leads and coordinates government’s ongoing efforts to make everyday life more affordable, manages and develops policy for the development of the province's utilities sector and oversees a reliable and affordable electricity system for Albertans. The Utilities Consumer Advocate's mandate is to educate, advocate and mediate for Alberta's residential, farm and small business electricity and natural gas consumers. Reporting to the Manager, Consumer Education and Awareness, the Consumer Education and Engagement Specialist is responsible for supporting the UCA in connecting with its target audiences through effective education and public engagement practices. Working within the parameters of a Consumer Education and Awareness Program (CEAP), the position will contribute to and support a CEAP stakeholder engagement plan. The position will ensure that the plan, associated products and activities closely align with, and support, the direction and goals of the CEAP as a whole. The position must demonstrate personal initiative to identify, establish and cultivate positive relationships with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders. The position requires strong research, relationship-building and communications skills (including verbal, writing, editing and proofreading) to develop and deliver workshops and presentations. The position assists in identifying and responding to issues faced by electricity and natural gas consumers by initiating, developing and delivering educational programs, publications, web content and other resources that empower these consumers. The position provides advice to UCA manager and staff on best practices in stakeholder engagement and public awareness processes and developments. The work of the position equips consumers to make informed decisions- knowing rights and options when it comes to utilities.

Requirements

University graduation in a related field (Education, Communications, Commerce/Marketing); plus 2 years progressively responsible related experience; or equivalent as described below. Directly related education or experience considered on the basis of: 1 year of education for 1 year of experience; or 1 year of experience for 1 year of education.
Experience developing and delivering presentations, workshops and webinars.
Experience managing tight timelines and multiple requests, balancing individual contributions with content best-practices, and with brand and messaging consistency.
Experience interacting with a variety of stakeholders representing diverse interests and perspectives.
Must be available for travel and able to work evenings and weekends.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Required to transport boxes of materials and presentation supplies.
Class 5 Driver's License is required.
Must be able to work evenings and weekends.
Be able to work independently and alone for long periods of time and extended periods of standing and lifting up to 30 lbs are required.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of how Alberta's utilities system works.
Experience developing public education and engagement materials, including report writing.

Responsibilities

Contributes to the development, execution and ongoing growth of the UCA's public education and engagement plans to support the objectives outlined in the Consumer Education and Awareness Program, including: Researching and identifying engagement and outreach opportunities and developing relationships with stakeholder organizations. Developing and delivering dynamic and engaging public presentations, workshops and webinars for diverse audiences Ensuring presentations and products align with UCA visual identity and Government of Alberta brand Applying a strong understanding of Alberta’s electricity and natural gas markets, including consumer issues, industry policies, practices, regulations, consumer rights and responsibilities, and changes to policies, procedures and protocols.
Works collaboratively with the Consumer Education and Awareness team and other UCA staff to research, write and edit consumer education resources and tools such as presentations, digital content, web and social media materials, fact sheets, tip sheets, brochures and postcards, ensuring complex market information is communicated in a simple, accurate and accessible manner.
Researches, provides advice on, and utilizes best practices in consumer education, stakeholder engagement and innovative presentation techniques to support the direction of the UCA, drawing on deep knowledge of Alberta’s utility markets and consumer protection landscape.
Collaborates with colleagues across the Division, Communications, the Ministry and Government of Alberta to ensure alignment with overall direction and objectives, identify opportunities for joint public education initiatives, and ensure adherence to Government of Alberta public engagement policy, legislation, directives and guidelines.
Monitors, measures and reports on the success of consumer education and engagement activities, including: Analyzing data to identify trends, frequently asked questions and areas of public concern Adapting approaches and plans accordingly Applying creative problem‑solving and communication skills to refine strategies.
Builds relationships with outside agencies and within government, including: Responding directly to consumers across Alberta and beyond on a wide variety of UCA subjects Providing courteous, timely and accurate information and advice on Alberta’s electricity and natural gas retailers and markets, including available retailers, contracts, regulated retailers and navigation of the UCA website Providing appropriate referrals to other government departments and outside agencies when inquiries fall outside the UCA mandate or require mediation Assisting consumers with problems or concerns using sound judgment and clear communication while engaging online and in person with stakeholders.
Supports diverse engagement activities, including: Working at trade shows and events to provide information to consumers Ability to work out of town for up to four days, schedule flexibility, including evenings, weekends or overtime and ability to work independently Extended periods of standing and lifting up to 30 lbs Having a valid driver’s licence Adapting to various tasks and situations, including influencing courses of action or recommending solutions.