ERM is hiring a Community Outreach Liaison in Buckingham County, VA. The role of a Community Outreach Liaison (Liaison) is critical to the success of infrastructure construction. This role is an on-site field position that will collaborate closely with project management, communications, external and government affairs, client, and consulting staff throughout the project planning and permitting phases, aiming to facilitate effective communication with landowners, community leaders, and other interested stakeholders. This is a part-time (10-20 hours per week), limited-term role for 1 year, with the option to extend.

The Liaison will take directions from communications, external affairs, and government affairs clients and consulting staff. This person will support on-the-ground, day-to-day communication between the project team and local communities. The Liaison should independently troubleshoot issues as they arise and act as a resource for the community; all to gain local insight that may inform project development and impact mitigation.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with the project team and government affairs staff for 1: 1 and small group stakeholder meetings, and project study area tours.
• Serve as project representative available during select office hours to be made available to the public to ask questions and learn more about the project.
• Attend various community meetings and events to talk with key stakeholders and community members and gain insight into perceptions and concerns associated with the project.
• At the direction/request of the client team, conduct ongoing and consistent outreach with identified staff at localities, counties, emergency response agencies, and other identified stakeholders regarding project plans.
• Document and report all interactions with stakeholders and landowners and submit weekly reports.
• Provide real-time updates to the client team as issues arise.

Requirements

• High school diploma required, bachelor’s degree in communications, public affairs, or similar a plus.
• Strong, related experience and demonstrated knowledge of public affairs, community relations, local government relations, and outreach.
• Educational and/or Field experience in a civic and business environment in the local community is preferred.
• Excellent writing and public speaking skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, synthesize ideas, and plan strategically.
• Experience and high comfort level with conflict/dispute resolution techniques.
• Effective and collaborative team player.
• Familiarity or experience with infrastructure permitting and construction processes is preferable.
• Previous experience as a local public official or community leader is preferable.

Other:

• Must be available to work a flexible schedule – during normal business hours and also early morning and evening events, as appropriate.
• Must be available to work 10-20 hours per week on average, as needed.
• Must be able to travel and have a valid driver’s license and cell phone.