CARES Community Launchpad Officer / Assistant Officer

Company Description Community Energy Scotland is Scotland’s only national charity dedicated to helping communities develop their own decarbonisation and renewable energy projects. The organization supports community groups with technical assistance, knowledge sharing, and practical guidance to advance sustainable energy and wider low-carbon initiatives. It champions community-led action in the transition to a low-carbon future, promoting environmental protection and community development across Scotland. By providing advice and financial support, Community Energy Scotland also works to prevent and relieve poverty, ensuring communities benefit directly from local energy and decarbonisation projects.

Role Description The CARES Community Launchpad Officer / Assistant Officer is a full-time, on-site role based in Birnam. The postholder will support community groups to explore, design, and deliver local energy and decarbonisation projects under the CARES (Community and Renewable Energy Scheme) framework. Day-to-day tasks include providing guidance on project development, helping communities access funding and support, organizing and facilitating workshops or information sessions, and maintaining regular contact with local groups and partners. The role involves gathering and sharing best practice, contributing to reports and case studies, and coordinating with colleagues to ensure consistent, high-quality support. The Officer / Assistant Officer will also represent Community Energy Scotland at meetings and events, promoting the role of community energy in the transition to a low-carbon future.

Qualifications

• Experience working with community groups, charities, or local organizations, with strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Understanding of renewable energy, community energy, or decarbonisation projects, and an interest in low-carbon and climate action initiatives.
• Strong communication skills, including clear written and verbal communication, and the ability to present information to diverse audiences.
• Organizational and project coordination skills, including planning, prioritizing tasks, and managing multiple community projects or workstreams.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a small team and independently, using sound judgment and a proactive, problem-solving approach.
• Competence with standard office software (e.g., email, word processing, spreadsheets, online collaboration tools) and willingness to learn new systems.
• Relevant experience or education in a field such as community development, environmental studies, renewable energy, or a related discipline is beneficial.
• Knowledge of the Scottish community and voluntary sector, and the ability to travel to community sites and events as required.