Community Outreach Coordinator

Description

Organization Summary: 

Civic Works’ Energy Programs social enterprise is leading efforts to ensure that local residents are able to both reduce their energy costs and decarbonize their homes. We make it easy and affordable for community members across Central Maryland to go solar and upgrade their energy efficiency. As an integral part of Civic Works’ job training center, we also play a pivotal role in expanding access to quality careers in the clean energy sector. This includes promoting job quality standards among program contractors, and creating on-the-job training opportunities for residents impacted by systemic inequities.

Position Summary:

The Community Outreach Coordinator will be instrumental in ensuring an equitable clean energy transition, bringing the benefits of the green economy to historically marginalized communities throughout Central Maryland. By engaging with residents through direct outreach and education activities at community events, the Community Outreach Coordinator will support efforts to dramatically increase the number of residents of all income levels in taking advantage of free and subsidized home energy efficiency and solar energy installation programs. Additionally, the Coordinator will build partnerships with local organizations to spread awareness of Civic Works programs through trusted community channels. They will track outreach activities, partnerships, and client interactions in Salesforce, using this data to assess impact and report results to funders.

Responsibilities:
I. Building & Maintaining Partnerships

1. Develop mutually beneficial partnerships with community organizations and leaders to promote energy efficiency programs.
2. Create referral systems with agencies that assist low- and moderate-income clients.
3. Organize community events, workshops and presentations for a variety of neighborhood groups, civic associations, workplaces, and faith-based organizations. 
4. Regularly log community partner information and communications into Salesforce.
5. Track and evaluate the effectiveness of partnerships and continuously improve strategies.

II. Direct Outreach and Education with Homeowners and Renters 

1. Engage with residents at community events and through phone calls to educate them about energy efficiency and solar programs, tailoring messages to their specific needs.. 
2. Inform customers about program benefits, eligibility for free and/or subsidized home upgrades, and what to expect after signing up.  
3. Follow up with past clients  to enlist their support as program ambassadors.
4. Assist customers in completing online intake applications and maintain accurate customer data in Salesforce. 
5. Track and evaluate outreach effectiveness to continuously improve strategies.

Additional Responsibilities:
Candidates with additional experience may qualify for a Senior Community Outreach Coordinator role, with higher outreach goals and added responsibilities. Senior duties include managing the outreach calendar, representing Civic Works in media, and supporting grant proposals through Letters of Support from community partners.
 

Qualifications

Education and Experience:
Civic Works values both formal education and real-world experience and skills. Skills and competencies gained through direct experience can significantly complement, and in some cases surpass, academic credentials. While educational thresholds and years of experience are listed, the primary focus is on demonstrated ability and proficiency in acquiring new skills.

• Experience with community outreach, marketing, communications, field organizing, lead generation, or other relevant work that engages diverse communities or builds relationships required.
• Experience with energy efficiency or solar energy is a plus but not required.
• Familiarity with Baltimore County, Harford County, and/or Howard County is helpful but not required.
• Candidates who have a significant level of experience with direct community outreach/lead generation and tracking outreach partnerships with a customer relationship management system may qualify for a senior-level Community Outreach Coordinator position.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to explain technical information in a clear and accessible way for diverse audiences. 
• Strong communication skills, including verbal, interpersonal, and written communication; experience in sales or community outreach is a plus. 
• Strong computer skills, including experience with databases and Google Workspace. 
• Strong ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Demonstrated ability to meet goals and achieve success in independent and collaborative work settings.
• Strong initiative and creativity, ability to recognize problems, develop innovative solutions and implement them.
• Able to work evenings and weekends on a regular basis, and maintain a flexible schedule to accommodate community engagement opportunities.
• Have a valid driver's license and ability to regularly travel to outreach events across Central Maryland, including Baltimore County, Harford County, and Howard County.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• The Community Outreach Coordinator position is a full-time (40 hours per week) position, with a flexible schedule to accommodate a variety of outreach activities, including regular evening and weekend events.
• Hybrid position: The Community Outreach Coordinator is eligible to work from home when not in the field, and works from Civic Works’ office in Baltimore City at least 2 days per month.