BACKGROUND
Energy Trust of Oregon is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to energy efficiency and renewable energy development. We serve the Oregon customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas, Avista and SW Washington customers of NW Natural. Year over year, Energy Trust is recognized as one of the 100 Best Nonprofits to Work For in Oregon.

Energy Trust is committed to the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. We strive to create a culturally attentive organization by reaching out to diverse candidates who will contribute a range of perspectives, experiences, skills and ideas to how we work, our programs and our services to best serve, reach and reflect the rich diversity of the customers we serve.

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY
The Community Relations and Policy Intern will support the Communications and Customer Service Group on outreach needs, efforts, systems and processes designed to provide information to community groups, elected officials and other entities about Energy Trust programs and services. The intern would gain knowledge and exposure to public and community engagement processes; Oregon policy-making processes and outcomes, including bill tracking and information sharing; Energy Trust program information; and communications and outreach work to help stakeholders, policymakers and policy implementers understand Energy Trust’s role in helping Oregon meet its clean energy goals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Track state legislative proposals and bills that could impact energy efficiency, renewable energy and/or Energy Trust.
• Assemble information to respond to legislators and other community groups or stakeholders inquiring about energy issues and Energy Trust programs, services and results.
• Support scheduling of informational briefings with legislators, help staff prepare for briefings and attend some briefings.
• Track city and county policy work related to energy efficiency and renewable energy, sometimes in the form of climate policies and community-driven energy campaigns, and capture information in spreadsheets or other tracking tools.
• Gather information and support participation in community-based organization events, memberships, sponsorships and communications to assist with promoting Energy Trust offers and services. Note: event formats are largely virtual during the COVID-19 pandemic and any in-person attendance will be discussed and follow public safety guidelines.
• Gather information on successful outreach and community-based efforts.
• Track on outreach activities conducted by team members in Customer Relationship Management software.
• Assist with a variety of project tasks related to outreach efforts including developing and assembling materials, notetaking, tracking legislation and local policies and researching outreach efforts or information requests.
• Perform all functions of the job in a safe and professional manner.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• College/graduate level coursework in public policy, communications, journalism, community planning, business, energy or other relevant experience/degree, preferred.
• Experience in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, databases and PowerPoint software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High organizational skills with ability to manage time efficiently while managing multiple tasks.
• Ability to work independently and as a supportive, contributing team member.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with people of diverse backgrounds.
• Must be able to interact with a diverse workforce and be comfortable working in culturally diverse settings and groups.

The above information is designed to outline the functions and position requirements of this internship. It does not identify all tasks that may be expected, nor address the performance
standards that must be maintained.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• This is a temporary, part-time internship, 15-20 hours per week and negotiable upon hire; internship is not to exceed 1,000 total hours worked.
• Compensation is $18 per hour.
• This position is not eligible for company benefits.

This position is a remote position. Energy Trust staff, contractors and interns work remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Returning to an in-office setting will follow state safety guidelines and the decision by the Energy Trust Executive Team.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Qualified individuals please submit cover letter, resume and application (found on Energy Trust’s website www.energytrust.org/careers) to careers@energytrust.org.

Energy Trust is an Equal Opportunity Employer that highly values diversity and inclusion in the workplace.