Public Engagement Field Manager, Illinois

Company Description

Apex Clean Energy was founded with a singular focus: to accelerate the shift to clean energy. Through origination, construction, and operation of utility-scale wind, solar, and storage facilities, distributed energy resources, and green fuel technologies, Apex is expanding the renewable frontier across North America. Our mission-driven team of more than 400 professionals uses a data-focused approach and an unrivaled portfolio of projects to create solutions for the world’s most innovative and forward-thinking customers. For more information about how Apex is building the energy company of the future, visit apexcleanenergy.com.

Apex strives to excel in every phase of project realization, from origination and financing to construction and asset management. Our mission-driven team seeks determined, resolute individuals who strive to innovate and go above the call of duty, and who will relentlessly do their part to help accelerate the shift to America’s clean energy future. 

Job Description

Apex is seeking an energetic and action-oriented Field Manager ready to build support for wind, solar, and battery storage development in Illinois. The Field Manager will work with the Public Engagement Manager to devise and implement community engagement strategies on a project-by-project basis, as well as collaborate on regional and more broad statewide issues that affect the projects.

The Field Manager may also manage Illinois-based Public Engagement Organizers (PEO) who are working to build support in specific project communities, training, managing and supporting their efforts to align with the Illinois Public Engagement and Development teams’ objectives. The Field Manager will also be expected to travel to Illinois project communities to assist in meetings and events with key stakeholders, provide presentations or workshops, and host events and other face-to-face engagement. The Field Manager will report to one of Apex’s Public Engagement Managers (PEM) on a regular basis.

The ideal applicant for the Field Manager position will demonstrate interest in and knowledge of the political workings in Illinois, the electoral rules governing political activity in the state, and any relevant regulations at the county or school district level.

Qualified candidates will be hands-on, hardworking team players who are eager to jump in and support projects and people from a variety of angles. The position requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to balance priorities and be flexible in a rapidly changing environment. Previous experience in campaigns or issue advocacy is highly desirable. Candidates who understand or appreciate ranching practices, and who possess a strong personal commitment to renewable energy, community organizing, business, and/or rural economic development will be well suited for this role.

Primary Responsibilities

• Managing any Illinois PEOs using a hands-on approach to support their work in communities
• Training and coaching PEOs on fundamental organizing skills
• Traveling to projects to support project teams
• Maintaining daily communication with the supervising PEM
• Strategizing the best use of various databases and systems, including but not limited to Borealis and Smartsheets, and ensuring that all data is entered accurately and kept up to date
• Supporting event planning and execution
• Identifying community relationship opportunities and cultivating them through communication, attention to community dynamics, and funding opportunities
• Assisting with local media, when appropriate
• Monitoring and managing local social and traditional media 
• Monitoring county and local municipal proceedings related to renewable energy for Illinois projects
• Professionally representing Apex Clean Energy at various business, local government, and community functions in Illinois
• Helping to cultivate advocates in Illinois project communities to contact, and attend meetings of, local elected officials and agencies in support of renewable energy
• Presenting to local groups, classes, and organizations in Illinois project areas
• Drafting letters of support for renewable energy for various audiences
• Helping to develop grassroots marketing strategies as needed
• Be willing and able to live in Illinois

Qualifications

To succeed as a Field Manager at Apex Clean Energy, you’ll need to excel within the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree or 2+ years of work experience in a similar setting
• At least 1 year or 1 election cycle of management experience
• Passion for working in management, policy, communications, public affairs, and local government relations
• Profici