Community Energy Development Officer - Cambridgeshire in Swavesey

Contract: Fixed Term to 31 March 2027 (extension subject to future funding).

Want to help communities turn Net Zero ambitions into real projects? We are looking for a Community Energy Development Officer to join the GSE Net Zero Hub and play a key role in supporting communities and local authorities to develop and deliver community energy projects. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who understands the community energy and Net Zero landscape and enjoys building strong partnerships, bringing people together and turning ideas into practical projects.

You will work closely with community energy groups, local authorities and other stakeholders, helping them identify opportunities, access funding and support, develop projects and build the capacity they need to make a lasting difference. No two days will be the same. You could be facilitating a community workshop, supporting a local group with project development, attending stakeholder meetings, developing resources or representing the GSE Net Zero Hub at an outreach event.

What you will be doing:

• Building the capacity and capability of community organisations to develop local energy projects.
• Developing strong and inclusive relationships with community groups, local authorities and other partners.
• Identifying opportunities for community energy projects across the Greater South East and helping to progress viable ideas.

We are looking for someone who can combine strong community engagement and partnership skills with practical knowledge of community energy and Net Zero. You will bring:

• Knowledge of the community energy and Net Zero sectors.
• Demonstrable experience of community energy development and working with community organisations.
• Strong partnership-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation and facilitation skills.
• A relevant degree or qualification in community development, renewable energy or a related area is desirable, although significant relevant experience will also be considered.
• Experience of delivering renewable energy or capital projects, community energy capacity-building programmes, or holding a project management qualification such as PRINCE2 or APM would also be advantageous.

Why join us?

You will join a collaborative and purpose-driven team working at the heart of the transition to Net Zero. This role offers the opportunity to work directly with communities and partners, develop innovative local projects and help ensure that communities have the knowledge, confidence and support to play an active role in the energy transition. You will have the opportunity to build a broad network across the Greater South East and contribute to work that can deliver a genuine long-term impact. The role involves travel across the Greater South East and may occasionally require flexible working, including some early evenings or weekends, to support community engagement.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion:

We want our organisation to reflect the communities we serve. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can be themselves, feel valued and have the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups that are currently underrepresented within our workforce. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and are committed to making our recruitment process accessible and inclusive.

Ready to make a difference?

If you are passionate about community energy, Net Zero and working with people to turn ideas into action, we would love to hear from you. Please apply early: We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications. Early applications are therefore encouraged.

Right to work: Please note that we are unable to provide Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the contract.