Energy Communications Associate

The Hawai‘i State Energy Office (HSEO), in partnership with the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission (CCMAC), is seeking an energetic and self-motivated VISTA member to support the development and implementation of a sustainable community education, outreach, and engagement program. This initiative will empower Hawai‘i’s diverse energy stakeholders, providing a meaningful voice in shaping energy programs and projects.

This position will play a vital role in expanding the visibility and accessibility of energy programs, shaping public understanding of the state’s energy transition, and facilitating meaningful dialogue between policymakers and communities. The VISTA will contribute to a wide variety of communications and engagement efforts, from digital storytelling and strategic messaging to event coordination and stakeholder outreach.

Project Period: July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 

Position Goals:

The VISTA project supports HSEO and the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission (CCMAC) in achieving statewide goals for energy efficiency, renewable energy, resilience, affordability, and climate equity. The Energy Communications Associate will work directly with HSEO leadership and subject matter experts to develop tools and strategies that:

• Promote affordable, reliable, and resilient energy solutions.
• Encourage community input in project development.
• Expand public understanding of Hawai‘i’s net-zero goals.
• Empower residents and businesses to adopt energy-saving practices and participate in Hawai‘i’s clean energy transition.

Objectives & Responsibilities:

Objective 1: Strengthen Public Outreach and Digital Communications

• Support website management (WordPress), social media, newsletters (Campaign Monitor), video production, and digital tools.
• Write, proofread, and edit creative and technical content to communicate state energy goals and improve public understanding of complex topics.
• Capture video and photography from events for use in outreach materials and online platforms.
• Monitor website and social media performance using Google Analytics and Siteimprove.
• Research communication trends and habits to tailor messaging strategies across platforms.
• Develop key consumer messages and create engaging, culturally relevant digital campaigns.

Objective 2: Enhance Community Engagement and Event Coordination

• Help coordinate facilitated, community-based workshops statewide with HSEO’s Clean Energy Wayfinders and CCMAC.
• Organize logistics, AV setup, and outreach materials for in-person and virtual community meetings.
• Develop and maintain a calendar of outreach activities, including events, appearances, and educational engagements.
• Attend public meetings and events to represent HSEO and gather insights from the community.
• Support the creation of tools and frameworks for assessing the impact of community engagement.

Objective 3: Support CCMAC Communications and Outreach

• Create compelling posts and updates for CCMAC’s Instagram and Facebook pages.
• Curate and update content on the Commission’s climate-focused website.
• Assist in organizing public events such as Earth Week, climate speaker series, and Commission meetings.

Objective 4: Contribute to Equity-Centered Climate and Energy Strategy

• Develop inclusive communication strategies that reach underserved and frontline communities.
• Support public input collection and reporting to ensure community voices are reflected in energy and climate planning.
• Help identify energy conservation, resilience, and renewable energy opportunities for residents and businesses, aligned with Executive Order 25-01 and Hawai‘i’s net-zero mandate.

Recommended Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations or related fields, preferred.  

Other qualifications: 

• Familiarity with the Hawai’i State Energy Office and the state’s clean energy goals. 
• Passion for clean energy and helping the community. 
• Friendly, enthusiastic, and positive attitude. 

Recommended Work Experience:

At least six months of relevant experience in marketing, communications, and community outreach. 

Recommended Skills/Abilities: 

• Familiarity with WordPress, Campaign Monitor, Canva, and social media platforms.
• Basic understanding of website layout and digital content formatting. 
• Outstanding written communication and presentation skills. 
• Strong knowledge of social media and other marketing platforms. 
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects at a time. 

Recommended Licenses, Certificates, etc. 

Hawai’i driver’s license 

About AmeriCorps VISTA 

AmeriCorps VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to help alleviate poverty. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965, VISTA has been working to address poverty in America for more than 50 years. AmeriCorps VISTA members serve as a catalyst for change, living and working alongside community members to meet our nation’s most pressing challenges and advance local solutions. Learn more at AmeriCorps VISTA. 

To Apply:  

Candidates must submit a VISTA application through the My AmeriCorps website at my.americorps.gov.

Direct all inquiries and submit resumes to: [email protected]

• cover letter; and
• comprehensive resume