Sr. Communications Manager - Solar Energy Industries Association

Company Profile

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is the national trade association for the solar and storage industry and represents more than 1,000 member companies and 255,000 Americans working across the United States. SEIA is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy and is creating the framework for solar to reach 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. We work with our member companies and strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. 

SEIA does this by supporting pro-solar policies at the state and federal levels, developing cutting-edge market research, hosting educational events and webinars, and serving as the voice of the solar and storage industry.

SEIA employees are passionate, forward-thinking leaders who start every day knowing that their work makes a difference. SEIA values diversity and fosters an inclusive, lively company culture that celebrates team success. The association has earned numerous awards for its work and company culture and was named by the Washington Post as a 2023 Top Workplace and a Best Nonprofit to Work For by the Nonprofit Times.

This position requires a cover letter to be submitted with the resume. Please also include a link to your portfolio or work samples in the cover letter.

Position Summary: 

The Senior Communications Manager will be a dedicated public affairs resource for states and local communities. As regional issues on land use, siting, codes and standards, recycling, and other programs continue to heat up, storytelling on the local level has become more important. They will develop regional editorial strategies, generate state and local media, and partner with SEIA member companies and other local groups and leaders to plan and carry out targeted media and communication campaigns. This person will be responsible for developing up-to-date and simplified web copy, fact sheets, and other collateral and contributing state-focused digital content for SEIA's social media channels and blog. This person will also work to build strategic alliances with state affiliates, members, and local advocacy groups to advance SEIA's policy and regulatory priorities. 

Core Duties & Responsibilities: 

• Develop and executive 3, 6, 12- month ahead editorial strategies in target states and regions 
• Manage incoming media inquiries and coordinate a response with the core SEIA communications team 
• Staff and prep SEIA executive for state and regional-focused media interviews 
• Hold regular coordinating calls with regional partners, including SEIA state affairs staff, lobbyists, relevant member companies, local partners, etc. 
• Write and edit media materials, including but not limited to public statements, press releases, talking points, briefing materials, blogs, social media content, opinion pieces, and other promotional material on behalf of the organization 
• Proactively pitch regional media 
• Organize promotional events such as press tours, press conferences, media events, roundtable discussions, regional salon dinners, special events, and functions 
• Provide report-outs on project milestones and activities 
• Work with SEIA staff, association members, and partners to develop media projects from concept to completion 
• Analyze all regional media coverage

Professional Experience, Education & Other Qualifications

• 4-6 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, marketing, publications, or related field required 
• Demonstrated ability to make news and establish long-term, authentic relationships with reporters 
• Campaign, political, and/or field experience a plus 
• Excellent editing, writing and verbal communications skills 
• Demonstrated ability to simplify and solve complex challenges and issues 
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail 
• Strong communication, presentation, and influencing skills, and ability to collaborate and build relationships with colleagues at all levels 
• Self-motivated with a proven track record of delivering results in a fast-paced environment 
• Strong initiative and ability to set and achieve challenging goals 
• A team player who builds strong relationships with broad range of internal and external stakeholders 
• Strong understanding of all social media channels 
• Experience with event planning and management a plus 
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and desktop publishing software 

Working Conditions

• SEIA employees in the Washington, D.C. region follow a hybrid remote and in-person office model. Employees work 3 days a week in an office environment and as needed when there are special events or meetings but otherwise, can be remote.
• Some travel requirements for this position to industry events and site visits around the country.

Compensation Range

$80,000-$85,000 annually, based on experience and excellent benefits package

Working at SEIA

SEIA values diversity, inclusion, and equity within our organization and the promotion of these values across the solar industry. We strive to welcome different perspectives, identities, and backgrounds, regardless of job function, to create a more resilient organization supporting a strong, equitable solar industry. SEIA envisions an industry that is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity. We aim to achieve this by encouraging openness and transparency about diversity issues and progress. We will develop strategies, programs, and tools that seek to equalize opportunities within SEIA and allow for discussing and sharing best practices within the solar industry.

SEIA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, homelessness, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. SEIA complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we employ staff. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

SEIA is an EVERIFY employer.