Community Engagement Specialist

Community Engagement Specialist - GINGR

Location: Berlin, Germany Starting Date: As soon as possible (negotiable) Contract Type: Initial 2-year contract, with the possibility of extension Application Deadline: Open until the position is filled

Position Overview

We are seeking a Community Engagement Specialist passionate about engaging with diverse stakeholders and shaping equitable renewable energy solutions. This position involves developing and promoting the "People-Positive" component of the GINGR framework, collaborating with global partners, and working with a multidisciplinary team in Berlin.

Key Responsibilities

The Community Engagement Specialist will contribute to GINGR's work by covering the following tasks:

• Framework Development: Design and refine the "People-Positive" components of GINGR's outputs.
• Community of Practice: Establish and coordinate a global network to advance key objectives, methodologies, and inclusive practices in renewable energy and grid projects.
• Localised strategies: Collaborate with local and regional organisations to contextualise GINGR's "People-Positive" strategy and support its implementation according to regional or local priorities and requirements.
• Best Practices Guidance: Support the creation of guidance on best practices for effective community participation in renewable energy and grid projects.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Work closely with RGI colleagues and existing GINGR partners in both RGI and IUCN to ensure seamless coordination and impact.
• Fundraising Support: Assist in securing funding through collaboration with donors and partners.

Qualifications & Skills

Educational Background & Experience

• Master's degree in sociology, anthropology, political science, or a related field with 3+ years of experience; OR a Bachelor's degree with 7+ years of relevant experience.
• Proven expertise in community engagement, participatory processes, and social performance programs.

Key Competencies

• Strong understanding of the intersection between social, environmental, and renewable energy challenges.
• Experience in working with coastal or fishing communities is an advantage.
• Demonstrated success in implementing social initiatives during infrastructure or development projects.
• Exceptional communication skills in English; fluency in other European languages is a plus.
• Cultural sensitivity and experience working with diverse, global stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and adapt quickly to new challenges.

Why join us?

• Be part of a small, highly motivated, and international team committed to tackling the intertwined challenges of energy security, climate change and biodiversity loss.
• We are operating at the heart of an industry that's currently undergoing a massive transformation.
• The GINGR initiative offers the possibility to collaborate with a very dynamic group of partners (e.g., IUCN) from different global backgrounds.
• Work at the nexus of corporate energy, non-governmental organizations, and policy advocacy.
• Contribute to a pioneering initiative with tangible global impact.

Application Process

To apply, please send the following documents to Antonella Battaglini, CEO of RGI, via email at ****@re********-****id.eu:

• 1. Letter of Motivation (1 page) including:
• Expected salary
• Earliest possible starting date
• 1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• 1. Responses to the following questions (max. 1 page per question):
• What are the most critical People-Positive actions to consider when deploying offshore wind farms or grid infrastructure?
• In your experience, what are the key challenges when it comes to engaging communities in renewables energy projects?

Only complete applications from qualified candidates will be considered. Feedback will be provided only to those meeting the required qualifications. Files should be sent in PDF format. RGI is an equal opportunity employer.

About RGI

The Renewables Grid Initiative (RGI) is a unique collaboration of NGOs and TSOs (transmission system operators) from across Europe engaging in an 'energy transition ecosystem-of-actors'. We promote fair, transparent, sustainable grid development to enable the growth of renewables to achieve full decarbonisation in line with the Paris Agreement.

About GINGR

GINGR - the Global Initiative for Nature, Grids and Renewables aims to support the just and sustainable energy transition by providing tools to assess and quantify contributions to Nature- and People-Positive goals. A joint initiative of IUCN (the International Union for Conservation of Nature) and RGI, GINGR will support governments, companies, and the financial sector to achieve their energy, climate and biodiversity targets in a timely and socially responsible manner.