The International District Energy Association (IDEA) seeks an experienced and energetic professional to coordinate and oversee industry research. Primary mission is to develop more accurate and robust industry data to better support association policy and legislative agenda. Research will include direct surveys and analysis of district energy and combined heat and power sector operations.
A background or degree in public policy, government, urban affairs, or environmental regulation would be helpful. Candidates should demonstrate experience and technical background in environmental studies; government, urban affairs, sustainability or engineering disciplines. Experience or interest in energy, utilities and environmental policy will be helpful. Self-starters are urged to apply. This is a one-year contract term position, subject to review and possible extension.
This position:
- Will work independently under direction of senior staff at IDEA. This one year term position will focus on developing, implementing and analyzing industry research including member operations data; energy and environmental performance; emissions and compliance; system performance and efficiency.
- Will conduct member satisfaction and opinion surveys and support policy and legislative initiatives through web, phone, and digital outreach.
- Offers opportunities to learn more about government energy and environmental programs; to explore certain aspects of the energy industry; and to assist a non-profit industry association in promoting energy efficiency, environmental responsibility and infrastructure investment.
- Will participate and assist in association activities while enhancing the Association’s visibility by promoting the industry through outreach; digital communications strategies, and growing the association through programs and marketing.
- Will interact with the Director of Business Development and requires a willingness to contribute to the overall success of the organization through a “can-do” attitude; an ability to work independently and accomplish tasks with minimal supervision and the work ethic to see projects through to completion.
Essential Skills:
Successful candidate must possess excellent organizational and administrative skills including strong proficiency with the following:
- Experience with on-line survey tools (Zoomerang, Constant Contact, etc.) and must be an effective and highly proficient communicator (both verbal and written).
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Access)
- Adobe Acrobat, Internet Explorer, Netscape and Google
- Familiar with Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other social media
- Proficiency in database management
- Pleasant phone voice and professional demeanor
Best Fit:
This is an ideal position for a motivated undergraduate or graduate student with an interest in alternative energy, urban planning, the environment or a career in planning, policy or infrastructure planning.
The individual must be smart, flexible, and able to improvise and do the work that unexpectedly may need to be done on a given day. Willingness to see projects through to completion is an important attribute.
Compensation:
Work will be compensated on billable hourly basis. Hourly rate to be determined based on experience and qualifications. As a term contract position, this does not include medical or health insurance or other fringe benefits.
If interested, please send resume and a sample of prior work or writing skills to Cheryl Jacques at Cheryl.idea@districtenergy.org.
Background – International District Energy Association:
The position will be located at the International District Energy Association, a 501 c (6) non-profit industry trade association. IDEA was formed in the United States in 1909 and continues to serve as the leading industry association for utilities; colleges/universities; manufacturers, suppliers and consultants involved in district energy and combined heat and power. District energy systems provide highly reliable heating, cooling and process services in cities, on campuses and in industry and produce environmental benefits of reduced emissions through increased energy efficiency and economies of scale.
IDEA currently has about 1200 members from 21 countries and an annual operating budget of approximately $2,500,000. Every year since 1909, IDEA has held an Annual Conference and Trade Show. In addition, IDEA typically produces and manages 3 to 4 additional conferences or workshops annually. As part of its member services, IDEA publishes a quarterly industry magazine (District Energy) and maintains a website (www.districtenergy.org). IDEA also provides networking and education for members and performs lobbying activities at the state and federal level for a favorable legislative environment for the district energy industry. IDEA generates operating revenues from annual dues paid by member organizations; from conference and trade show registrations, exhibitions and sponsorships; from subscriptions and advertising revenues; and from various government grants and research programs.
