The Environment and Energy Program Officer manages the grant distribution process for a growing portfolio of charitable funds that promote the use of renewable energy, the protection of the environment, and the vitality of neighborhoods related to those issues. The ideal candidate will have experience in the environmental field; understand public policy as it relates to energy and the environment, and have practice managing committees, task forces, and other groups.

Responsibilities of Position:

• Manage programs and distributions that relate to the environment, land use, and neighborhood vitality
• Advise foundation on key environmental issues impacting Berks County
• Develop and maintain relationships with other environmental funders and organizations
• Oversee the Metropolitan Edison Company Sustainable Energy Fund which includes: monitoring regulatory filings and applications to identify those that will have an impact in Berks County; work with an established committee to implement strategic objectives; cultivate and present projects across the territory served by the Met-Ed Electric Company; coordinate with the sister fund in the Penelec territory; stay up-to-date on new research, advancements and government legislation that impact sustainable and renewable energy inPennsylvania; monitor grants, loans, and equity investments from the fund; and present annually to the Pennsylvania Utility Commissions at a public meeting in Harrisburg.
• Advocate for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in the community
• Screen and provide a preliminary evaluation of grant applications
• Provide technical assistance for grant applicants where appropriate
• Run task force and fund advisory committee meetings, prepare agendas and develop follow up materials
• Learn and use Foundant to manage grant applications and, in coordination with other staff members, assure that grant payments are distributed appropriately
• Assist in identifying and recruiting volunteers for fund advisory committees
• Advise staff on communication and articles related to program issues
• Work cooperatively with other program officers at the foundation when projects cross- pollinate, such as health and the environment
• Work with the communication department to ensure the community is aware of grant opportunities as they become available

• Represent Berks County Community Foundation on task forces, committees and panels related to energy, the environment, and neighborhood vitality
• Be a resource for individuals who want to support environmental or neighborhood causes through their funds at the Community Foundation
• Other duties as assigned

Position Scope:

• Full Time Professional
• In-person in our Reading, PA office with limited hybrid option
• Direct Reports: None
• Salary Range: $61,000-$66,000

Reporting:

• This position reports to the Vice President for Programs and Initiatives of the Community Foundation.

Attributes/Skills Required/Sought:

• Awareness and understanding of public policy related to these causes
• Technical understanding of renewable energy systems and trends
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work with various members of the community
• Ability to work on multiple assignments over the course of a day or week, and shift gears as needed
• Superior organizational skills
• Ability to work with others in a team
• A sense of humor
• Ability to manage complex processes
• Ability to write fact-based follow-up reports
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of his or her role in a project
• Competency in Microsoft Word and Excel

Experience/Education Required/Sought:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Public Policy, Environmental or Earth Sciences, or related field
• At least seven years of experience related to the activities outlined above

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $66,000.00 per year

Schedule:

• Day shift

Work Location: One location