Energy and Environment Communications Professional

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is seeking an Energy and Environment Communications Professional to develop and execute strategic communication plans that enhance the visibility of PNNL's research. The role involves managing communications for events, stakeholder engagement, and promoting PNNL’s reputation in the energy and environment sector. Candidates should have a background in communications leadership and a passion for engaging with science and industry stakeholders.
OverviewFor a complete understanding of this opportunity, and what will be required to be a successful applicant, read on.Communications creates and provides strategic communications to the Laboratory’s internal and external stakeholders and collaborators. It sets and implements a cohesive strategy to amplify the visibility of PNNL's research and develops standards and efforts that communicate PNNL’s value proposition. In doing so, Communications enhances the Laboratory’s institutional reputation and science and technology agenda. Further, Communications drives employee-focused communications; leads media and outreach to external stakeholders; supports research through robust technical editing, formatting, and graphics support; and protects the Laboratory's reputation through issues management and transparency with news media.
PNNL’s Communications organization is comprised of more than 100 talented communications professionals committed to elevating PNNL’s reputation, inspiring action, and engaging audiences by transforming the Lab’s science into influential communications and compelling stories.ResponsibilitiesJob Description
We are seeking a senior-level communicator who can imagine and execute communication strategies that strengthen the understanding, impact, and reach of PNNL’s energy and environment work among select stakeholders. As a point-of-contact, production manager, communications planner, and lead executor for communications in PNNL’s Energy and Environment Directorate (EED), you will pair your experience in communications leadership with your knowledge of the science and stakeholders in the energy and environment domain.
Working with teammates in PNNL’s wider communications division, you will execute communications work that drives reputation and business growth. You will lead or contribute to a variety of communications activities—events, campaigns, tours, visits, promotional opportunities, presentations, etc.—to support EED and its goals internally and externally.
Prime candidates will naturally be able to engage, elevate, and inspire others—core tenets of PNNL’s Communications and External Engagement mission. Engage PNNL stakeholders to foster meaningful connections between them and our science and technology mission and accelerate our impact. Elevate our institutional reputation and impact locally, regionally, nationally, and globally to position PNNL as a leader in mission-driven science and innovation. Inspire stakeholders and staff by facilitating and showcasing PNNL’s scientific leadership, national influence, community commitments and service to advance the frontiers of knowledge and our distinguished staff.
You are a listener, convener, creator, and one who can make sense of numerous—sometimes divergent—ideas, priorities, and requests. You have a passion for strategic communications plus enthusiasm and experience engaging science and industry stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communications Planning & Execution:
Develop and execute annual strategic communication plans aligned with EED business goals
Lead communications efforts for high-profile events and stakeholder visits
Manage internal and external communications priorities
Track and report KPIs to demonstrate communications impact
Stakeholder Management:
Build and maintain relationships with EED leaders and researchers
Understand and engage with key audiences including funding agencies and external partners
Work with Protocol team to coordinate high-level stakeholder visits
Maintain awareness of energy and environment science trends
Content Development:
Create and manage high-level communications materials including:Briefing documents
Executive presentations
Talking points
Reports
All-staff messagesDevelop content for web, social media, newsletters, and sponsor reports
Project Management:
Lead cross-functional communications projects
Use established task management system to track projects and assign work
Coordinate with broader Communications Division team
Problem-solve to remove barriers and provide strategic directionQualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
BS/BA and 7+ years of relevant experience -OR-
MS/MA and 5+ years of relevant experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Proven track record in strategic communications planning and execution.
Experience defining and tracking communications KPIs.
Background in energy efficiency, renewable energy, or sustainable energy communications role; knowledge of stakeholders in these domains.
Strong executive presence and ability to advise senior executives.
Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated expertise in handling sensitive business information.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Strong project management capabilities.
Power user of common software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Teams); experience with or knowledge of content management systems (Drupal, SharePoint).Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentPosition is on-site at PNNL-Richland in Richland, Washington.
Some travel may be required (