State Affairs, Lead Specialist

Vestas-Steelhead Americas is looking for a motivated and experienced

State Affairs Specialist

to support our state-level stakeholder engagement strategy and public policy that benefits Steelhead’s development portfolio. This role supports public engagement efforts across multiple projects, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities. The position offers opportunities to work on projects nationwide, with potential involvement in international initiatives.

State Affairs Specialist – Remote Position

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute public affairs and government relations strategies in Steelhead’s priority states.
• Advocate for policies, regulations, and fee structures affecting renewable energy projects, working closely with the Public Engagement, Legal, Development, and Public Affairs teams.
• Track and monitor policy trends impacting or are relevant to Steelhead initiatives, portfolio health or company strategy.
• Create and maintain relationships with industry trade organizations and relevant stakeholders to inform, guide, and protect Steelhead and project strategy.
• Manage and support public hearings, community meetings, and stakeholder engagement, including outreach to government officials.
• Coordinate influencer meetings, crisis communications, community giving, political contributions, and project events.
• Create compelling communications materials, including presentations, talking points, press releases, project datasheets, and website content.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with local businesses, government agencies, NGOs, and tribal stakeholders.
• Oversee external public affairs and public relations agencies to ensure effective stakeholder engagement.
• Manage community development programs in compliance with company policies and state/local regulations.
• Stay informed on project development and permitting milestones, attending project team meetings as needed.
• Represent and advocate for Steelhead’s interests in industry organizations.
• Conduct site visits to key project locations to engage with local communities and address project concerns.
• Support communications and public engagement efforts at the state and local levels as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs, Political Science, Communications, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in public affairs, stakeholder engagement, communications, or renewable energy.
• Background in political campaigns or advocacy.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex public affairs challenges in utility-scale renewable energy.
• Ability to cultivate relationships with community leaders, elected officials, NGOs, etc.
• Experience with permitting processes, including state siting legislation.
• Skilled in managing various agencies.
• Commitment to renewable energy, campaigns, and sustainability.
• Demonstrates proficiency in strategic decision-making, communication, and project organization.
• Comfortable presenting in public meetings and hearings.
• Results-driven with well-developed project management abilities.
• Self-motivated and responsive in a changing, evolving environment.
• Ability to work cross-functionally as a cooperative colleague and influencer.
• Strategically minded, with the ability to anticipate challenges and craft solutions.
• Experience in facilitating effective meetings and coordinating teams.
• Open to feedback with a commitment to continuous improvement.

Competencies:

• Advanced organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset.
• Experienced, versatile, and able to manage well in work settings with shifting requirements.
• Comfortable managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office and database management; graphic design and InDesign experience is a plus.
• Willing to travel as needed (up to 50%).

What We Offer:

• We offer an exciting position with great development opportunities in an inspiring environment at the world’s largest wind turbine producer. We value initiative, collaboration, accountability, and accuracy. You will become part of an international environment with a focus on sustainability and safety and you will work among colleagues who support each other.
• Attractive salary and one of the most comprehensive benefits plans in the industry
• Great benefits coverage that includes dental and vision
• Generous Paid Time Off policies
• Great 401(k) plan (with employer match)
• Tuition assistance

Learn more here