Communications Specialist

The North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association works to ensure a sustainable future by promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency to the benefit of North Carolina through education, public policy and economic development. 

Position Overview:

Reporting to the Director of Human Resources and Outreach, the Communications Specialist will work as part of the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association's Communications and Outreach Team to support and expand our communications, education, outreach, policy, market intelligence and government affairs strategies. T

his position will work to devise new ways to maximize NCSEA's internal, external and online communications and educational efforts; assist with the coordination of events and trainings; increase our social media presence; and expand our network of decision makers. Administratively they will assist the organization as needed in overflow work, special projects and general administrative organization as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Design materials using InDesign and Microsoft Publisher*Drafting & distributing external communications to NCSEA's members, supporters, key stakeholders, etc. via eNews, Media Service email, eAlerts, website, and social media sites.
• Design and edit NCSEA Publications (view on NCSEA) Research, write, manage and distribute fact sheets, marketing materials, training materials for staff, and website content.
• Attend ribbon cuttings and events.
• Maintain current content on the NCSEA website.
• Photograph and tape NCSEA and customer events.
• Maintain the NCSEA calendar of events.
• Maintain NCSEA's LinkedIn, Twitter, Flickr, Constant Contact and Facebook accounts.
• Conduct education and outreach strategies to inform decision-makers.
• Online Communications Report. Develop and Maintain NCSEA's Publications Style Guide. Establish internal and external communications protocols.
• Establish and Maintain Media Relations throughout the state. Design and created Marketing and Media Packets.
• Refresh NCSEA Materials and Website to keep Current. Conduct Webinars and Video casts.
• Sets up Go To Meetings.
• Research, write, manage and distribute fact sheets, marketing materials, training materials for staff and website content.
• Assist with the coordination of NCSEA-sponsored events, trainings and meetings.
• Assist with media relations, including drafting press releases, monitoring media coverage, on-going communications with and education of reporters, and responding to media requests.
• Participate in the development of NCSEA's marketing and communication plan.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with NCSEA members and supporters, representatives of the media, partner organizations, as well as a variety of state and Federal government and elected officials.

Qualifications:

Education/Experience Requirements:

Qualified candidates should possess a Bachelor of Art or Science degree with exceptional writing, communication, and research skills, as well as an interest in sustainable energy, government affairs and communications. 2 to 4 years' experience required. Must be proficient in a broad spectrum of software programs including Publisher, InDesign, Microsoft Word, Power Point, Excel, Outlook, Internet, social media tools and sites, and Online Email Programs, and strong in external communications and network building.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent writing, communications, public relations, organizational, and listening skills. Website content management and social media experience. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Excellent social media and blogging skills. Strong photography and video skills. Ability to take complex concepts and vary writing style and information to meet different needs and audiences.
• Knowledge of energy regulation, energy policy, energy technology, energy finance and economics, and / or the electricity service industry is a plus, but not required.
• Research and analysis experience a plus.
• Displays original thinking and creativity to develop innovative approaches and ideas.
• High degree of motivation, self-confidence, initiative, and reliability.
• Proven ability to work independently, quickly, and efficiently on multiple tasks with limited supervision in a deadline driven, fast paced environment. Ability to prioritize and juggle multiple tasks. Maintains a flexible attitude as priorities shift or change. Confident and accurate when speaking with government, business leaders, and other stakeholders. Strong time-management skills. Must have experience in writing and maintaining a website.

Compensation: Non-profit salary commensurate with experience and education. Benefits include: health insurance, long and short term disability insurance, accidental death, employee life, dental insurance, 403 (b) participation, travel expense reimbursement, publication opportunities and conference paper presentations where appropriate, generous paid time off policy, 9 paid Holidays per calendar year, and paid professional development opportunities.

To Apply:

Please send a resume and writing samples. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

NCSEA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It considers all positions without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability or other categories as proscribed by federal, state or local law.