City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Climate Protection Consultant

Under general direction, this position researches, develops, and implements departmental climate protection programs and provides oversight of departmental climate protection policies, operational directives, and procedures. 

1. Provides leadership for departmental climate programs across divisions and works in coordination with other departments to develop, implement, and evaluate plans or procedures that promote climate protection awareness and initiatives.
2. Analyzes climate-related research findings to identify departmental threats and challenges from climate change and proactively develops ways to address these challenges or enhance the plans the department already has in place.
3. Proposes new, or modifies existing, programs involving departmental carbon footprint, the use of traditional and alternative fuels, energy optimization, and other factors related to climate and climate protection.
4. Researches climate change policies, best practices, and environmental legislation and makes recommendations for climate protection, air quality, or environmental management initiatives.
5. Prepares studies, reports, memoranda, briefs, or other written materials on climate protection to inform customers, City leadership, and other stakeholders.
6. Provides analytical support for policy briefs and program development related to climate change, resource conservation, renewable energy, energy efficiency, or climate change.
7. Reviews existing policies or legislation to identify impacts on existing climate or environmental policy.
8. Provides climate-oriented guidance and recommendations on departmental Capital Improvement Program projects, both in the energy savings and on climate adaptation projects.
9. Represents the department on climate issues with national industry and governmental groups.
10. Acts as liaison on climate issues with other City departments and climate partnerships.

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others.

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws, ordinances, policies, and procedures, including those covering environmental regulations.
• Knowledge of climate change and measures to address climate change.
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of safety practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation and management.
• Knowledge of project management and internal control concepts and practices.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Skill in the use of computers and related software.
• Ability to develop project plans, goals, objectives, and schedules.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public, media, and key stakeholders about climate programs, initiatives, and challenges.
• Ability to handle hostile conflict and uncertain situations.
• Ability to coordinate complex projects in a changing management environment and without direct supervisory authority.
• Ability to lead cross-functional and departmental project teams.
• Ability to explain climate change science in everyday language, determine its impact on the business operations of the department, and recommend appropriate action.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with City employees and the public.

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Environmental Science, Natural Science, Social Science, Climate Change, Sustainable Business, Resource Management, Public Policy and Administration, Business Administration, or a related field, plus four (4) years of related experience.
• Graduation with a Master's degree from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for experience up to two (2) years.