Communications and Engagement Associate

Company Overview NextEnergy Center is a not-for-profit consultancy based in Michigan. We facilitate the development and acceptance of technology-based solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in the state of Michigan. Michigan Clean Cities is a nonprofit organization driving adoption of clean transportation solutions in Michigan. MICC is a designated coalition within the U.S. Department of Energys Clean Cities and Communities network. NextEnergy and Michigan Clean Cities are affiliated and share operations and staff. We are meeting our respective missions by engaging with external parties with shared objectives of increasing the availability and use of clean energy solutions, including within the transportation sector and others in the built environment. Learn more about our shared goals at nextenergy.org and michigancleancities.org. Responsibilities We are seeking an enthusiastic professional to join our team to support stakeholder and member engagement and overall communications. The outcome of this position is to support strong and positive relationships within our organizations networks. The Communications and Engagement Associate will be a point of contact for external organizations and individuals with whom NextEnergy and Michigan Clean Cities engage. The Associate will support and / or lead event planning and conduct events, will support and / or lead outreach with and to stakeholders by phone, email, in-person, and web-based modes of engagement. Examples of activities the Associate will conduct include, but may not be limited to : A. Outreach to municipal staff, housing development managers, fleet managers and others to generate interest in clean transportation technologies. B. Outreach to a variety of entities and individuals about renewing or becoming members or sponsors of coalitions or initiatives. C. Event planning and marketing / promotion. The Associate will support program communications including branding, website, blogs, newsletters, releases, and printed materials. The Associate will develop partnerships with community organizers, community faith and Community Based Organization (CBO) leaders, and local decision-makers, and others. NextEnergy and Michigan Clean Cities coalition partners with clients and stakeholders to deliver transformational programs, evaluate, and optimize program contributions towards climate, energy, and other goals, and continuously improve the program experience for customers. Primary Responsibilities : Contributing to technology development through project work and overall strategy. Additional Responsibilities : Contributing to project planning, budgeting, and overall strategy Establishing key performance indicators Monitoring and evaluating the overall project Analyzing project data and producing insights to optimize performance Identifying problems and shortfalls and proposing solutions Providing operational support such as liaising with stakeholders, tracking timelines, etc. Preparing, reviewing, and maintaining project documentation and reports Maintaining project contracts and financials Qualifications Bachelors degree in marketing, communications, or other relevant degree areas, or demonstrable experience in the roles described for this position Outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills Ability to assume ownership of significant portions of tasks while collaborating with a close-knit team Ability to manage several tasks simultaneously, prioritize and plan work activities while meeting respective deadlines Demonstrated attention to detail Strong critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills Strong interpersonal skills An inquisitive nature and desire for continuous improvement Proficiency with Maximizer CRM, Microsoft Office Suite, and familiarity with Smartsheet Ability to assume ownership of significant portions of tasks while collaborating with a close-knit team Ability to manage several tasks simultaneously, prioritize and plan work activities while meeting respective deadlines Excellent verbal and written communication skills Desired Qualifications 2 years experience with technology development and operations (including internships, co-ops, fellowships, and graduate research) Additional Requirements The successful candidate must not be subject to employment restrictions from a former employer (such as a non-compete) that would prevent the candidate from performing the job responsibilities as described. Disclaimer About NextEnergy Center NextEnergy Center is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, military status, protected veteran status, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation. NextEnergy Center does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of NextEnergy Center and NextEnergy Center will not be obligated to pay a placement fee. Rewards and Benefits NextEnergy Center offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace. Benefits include : Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance Basic Life & Supplemental Life Health Savings Account, Dental / Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Skills Development & Certifications Hybrid Work Environment