Public Engagement Campaign Specialist

Vestas • Topeka, KS

316d

About The Position

Vestas-Steelhead Americas is seeking an action-oriented, experienced REMOTE Public Engagement Campaign Specialist to support stakeholder engagement and communications for Steelhead's development portfolio. The position reports to the Director of Public Engagement and works closely with the development teams on community engagement activities. The position requires an ability to manage simultaneous priorities for multiple projects. The role provides an opportunity to work on projects throughout the U.S. and the possibility of involvement in international projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in public relations, communications, advertising, political science, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in public affairs, public relations, communications, community organizing, or campaign management, with a preference for knowledge in renewable energy.
• Proficiency in designing and managing impactful grassroots campaigns, whether political or issue advocacy.
• Showcase a background in community/regional planning, renewable energy, environmental/public policy issues, campaign management, public involvement, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and mediation.
• Exhibit effective writing and communication skills, along with experience in drafting messaging and materials.
• Have significant experience working with diverse stakeholders and landowners engaged in complex projects.
• Experience in addressing oppositional stakeholders and effectively mitigating the influence of opponents.
• Showcase ability in preparing and implementing plans and budgets, including events.
• Possess a consistent work ethic, along with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize various needs for multiple projects effectively.

Nice To Haves

• Exhibit advanced computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management; graphic design and InDesign skills are desirable but not mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify engagement opportunities and risks.
• Manage public engagement and communication initiatives to activate and involve supporters aligned with project milestones.
• Provide targeted outreach support to development teams, tailoring strategies based on specific community characteristics.
• Manage and maintain project-specific websites, overseeing external project communications, and managing social media strategies.
• Identify and cultivate media relations with relevant organizations, develop relationships with media reporting on Steelhead or its projects, and develop responses to media inquiries and local press releases.
• Research project location(s) and identify key stakeholders (elected officials, landowners, neighbors, community leaders) to tailor strategies to the specific community.
• Support various project initiatives, including regulatory processes, legislative activities, and public meetings, to advance project development.
• Identify opportunities for sponsorships/donations to enhance community outreach efforts.
• Coordinate special projects and events like community gatherings and landowner events.
• Facilitate stakeholder meetings, document engagement activities, and manage databases.
• Provide strategic leadership in building effective relationships and making positive contributions in the community.
• Attend meetings, as necessary, with stakeholders and develop meeting summaries and reports.
• Maintain and build a comprehensive contact database for projects.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and one of the most comprehensive benefits plans in the industry
• Great benefits coverage that includes dental and vision
• Generous Paid Time Off policies
• Great 401(k) plan (with employer match)
• Tuition assistance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Utilities
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree