About Earthrise

Earthrise Energy seeks to power our world more responsibly, sustainably, and equitably than ever before. An independent power producer, Earthrise takes a holistic approach to the energy transition.  We leverage the existing transmission infrastructure of a portfolio of legacy fossil fuel generation plants to accelerate the deployment of renewable technologies. We acquire, develop, and operate power generation facilities that provide reliable electricity, support the decarbonizing grid, and meet the evolving needs of our customers and communities.

As the owner of the legacy gas power plants that serve as our point of access to the grid, Earthrise Energy is a long-term partner to the Illinois communities where we are developing utility-scale solar power plants. The Director of Community Engagement is responsible for building and executing a community engagement strategy in each of the counties in which we operate to build lasting partnerships and support a successful zoning process. This role will report to the Vice President, Development and collaborate closely with Earthrise’s project developers and Head of Corporate Communications. The ideal candidate has a grassroots organizing background and demonstrated track record of successfully zoning utility scale renewable energy projects in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Design a campaign to support successful navigation of the local zoning/permitting process for each of Earthrise’s projects by building a coalition of local project advocates and engaging key stakeholders
• Plan and run community events to build awareness of projects and Earthrise, including supporter meetings
• Perform power-mapping to identify key stakeholders, understand their positions, set up meetings, and create an outreach strategy
• Identify a local champion for each project hub to serve as local project representative and organize project supports, creating a network of advocates
• Support the creation of handouts, posters, flyers and other collateral
• Create a social media presence and monitor platforms to stay ahead of local opposition and/or misinformation
• Understand risks to projects from local opposition and communicate internally to ensure campaigns are appropriately resourced

Qualifications & Skills

• Must be based in IL or within a 3 hour drive.  Must be willing to travel to Earthrise’s hubs in Illinois up to 50% of the time
• 5-10 years of grassroots organizing experience on political, labor or environmental campaigns
• Charismatic and confident public speaker
• Persuasive and natural motivator, comfortable pushing others to action
• Experienced with navigating conflicting perspectives and points of view
• Familiarity with renewable energy development, including the permitting/zoning process; several years of renewable energy experience preferred
• Has a “never give up” attitude to find a way around obstacles and setbacks