Climate Action Coordinator

Job Description Primary purpose:

The Climate Action Coordinator is responsible for advancing community-wide decarbonization and climate action in Newton through outreach, engagement, and collaboration with residents, community organizations, and other stakeholders. The position coordinates key elements of the City’s climate action work, including updating and tracking progress on the Climate Action Plan, supporting implementation of priority initiatives, and helping to connect City programs and community efforts that advance Newton’s climate goals.

The position also provides administrative and organizational support for sustainability programs and initiatives.

Works under the general direction of the Director of Climate and Energy and receives general administrative direction while exercising substantial independent judgment.

May oversee and direct co-op or intern students, volunteers, consultants and/or grant-sponsored contractors.

• Conduct community outreach and education to advance climate action, decarbonization, and climate resilience.
• Develop and maintain public facing climate communications and resources, including digital content and outreach materials.
• Host, staff, and coordinate volunteers to participate in community events to publicize climate information and encourage local action.
• Coordinate updates to, implementation of, and tracking of progress on the Climate Action Plan.
• Work with City departments and community partners to support climate priorities and track and report progress toward climate goals.
• Provide coordination, supervision, and support to community groups, volunteers, and other participants as appropriate for the City’s climate and sustainability initiatives, including the Energy Coach program.
• Manage administrative, programmatic, and reporting responsibilities for assigned climate and energy programs.
• Prepare required City, state, grant, and program reports and documentation.
• Assist with identifying, applying for, and implementing climate and energy grants and other sustainability initiatives.
• Coordinate with residents, businesses, contractors, City departments, schools, institutions, and community organizations to advance sustainability programs and priorities.
• Provide administrative support to the Climate and Energy team.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental studies, engineering, economics, public policy, or related fields.

Work experience in organizations related to the duties of the position and the knowledge, abilities and skills required. Familiarity with Massachusetts climate and energy-related programs and agencies.

A valid Class D Driver’s License is required.

• Decarbonization technologies, retrofit processes, energy efficiency, and relevant State programs
• Sustainability principles, climate action planning, greenhouse gas reduction strategies, and related environmental issues
• Community engagement and outreach strategies
• Data management and analysis
• Office systems including word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation applications

• Communicate clearly and effectively in oral and written form with a variety of audiences
• Respond professionally to inquiries or complaints from residents, staff, agencies, and stakeholders
• Remain highly organized when managing multiple projects and responsibilities
• Organize community events and outreach programs
• Manage the Climate & Energy and Climate Dashboard webpages
• Supervise, direct, and assist volunteers, interns,…