Co-operatives, community development, renewable energy

Position: Manager and Project Lead
Organization: Community Energy Cooperative Canada
Location: Remote, with occasional travel in Canada

Salary: $70,000 + potential benefits

Community Energy Cooperative Canada (CECC) seeks a passionate and strategic Manager and Project Lead to spearhead the Renewable Energy Co-operative Enhancement Initiative (RECEI), funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada. This initiative aims to strengthen Canada’s renewable energy cooperative (REC) sector by fostering innovation, building networks, and enhancing the capacity of community-led renewable energy projects.

CECC is a newly formed national federation committed to supporting communities in owning and shaping their energy future. Through collaboration, education, research and policy advocacy, CECC is working to build a resilient, community-driven renewable energy sector.

Key Responsibilities

Management & Leadership

• Report directly to the Board of Directors and support one part-time employee.
• Develop a multi-year business plan for CECC and evaluate and secure long-term financing to allow the project to continue post-funding and ensure CECC’s sustainability.

Project Oversight

• Lead the RECEI from planning to execution, including monitoring, reporting, and outcomes delivery.
• Establish innovative programs, such as mentorship opportunities, a national REC Information Hub, and an annual Census Review.

Community Engagement & Networking

• Build relationships with RECs, Indigenous communities, municipalities and aligned groups across Canada, ensuring diverse voices guide the project’s development.
• Strengthen Canada’s REC ecosystem by organizing workshops, case studies, and an annual Co-operative Energy Forum and AGM
• Cultivate and expand CECC’s national network of renewable energy co-operatives and members creating platforms for knowledge sharing and collective action.

Knowledge Development

• Collaborate with academic and sector experts to share knowledge, facilitate learning, and develop resources that empower REC initiatives.
• Support applied research activities related to the REC sector
• Conduct and publish the annual Census Review of RECs, in conjunction with academic partners.

What We Offer

• 12-month contract, with potential for extension depending on performance.
• Flexible, remote work environment.
• Opportunity to shape the future of Canada’s renewable energy landscape.
• Access to professional development and network-building opportunities.
• The chance to connect with diverse stakeholders across Canada, expanding your network and knowledge in the renewable energy sector.
• Salary: $70,000 + potential (perhaps we can be more specific?) benefits

Essential Qualifications

• Education and/or experience in co-operative organizations, community development, business development, sustainability, renewable energy, or non-profits.
• A track record of leadership in the co-operative, nonprofit, or renewable energy sector.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, including budget oversight and reporting.
• Proven ability to engage diverse communities, including Indigenous groups, and build meaningful partnerships.
• Knowledge of Canada’s energy policies, co-operatives, and the clean energy transition.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal and community engagement abilities

Assets

• Proficiency in French.
• Experience with financial tools and funding models for cooperatives.
• Passion for renewable energy, sustainability, and community-driven change.
• A graduate degree.

How to Apply

Please send the following to connect@cecooperative.ca by February 28th, 2025:

• A cover letter (max 1 page) outlining your vision for community energy co-operatives in Canada and how you see this role advancing the energy transition. Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.
• Your resume/CV.
• Contact details for two references.

Applications should reference “Application: CECC Manager and Project Lead” in the subject line.

Interviews will be conducted in English during the week of March 10th, 2025. The start date would be as soon as possible.

CECC values diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. Those with relevant combinations of education, experience and enthusiasm that may not meet all of the qualifications are encouraged to apply.