Sustainability and Resilience Specialist

Office of Planning and Development Services (OPDS) 

ENTRY SALARY:        

Dependent on Qualifications

POSITION RANGE:    

$63,224.49 – $82,191.94/annum

The Town of Groton, Connecticut seeks a Sustainability and Resilience Specialist to assist in the development and implementation of the Town's Climate Action Plan and other greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies, flooding and hazard plans, and climate and resilience projects. This position supports activities that have a direct and positive effect on town-wide sustainability and resilience efforts, including proposing and managing projects and grants, and conducting community outreach and engagement. This is a non-union, non-exempt, full-time position.

Groton is located on the shoreline in southeastern Connecticut and is home to a diverse community that celebrates inclusivity. The Town is active in economic development and diversification, and is conveniently located midway between New York and Boston. Groton boasts diverse educational options, historic sites, attractions, and outdoor spaces, for a balanced quality of life.

The Town of Groton is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels; it is committed to creating an environment of belonging and engagement for all employees, and encourages all individuals to apply.

The total rewards package for this position includes the following:

- Health and Dental Insurance

- Employer HSA contribution

- Traditional Pension, or 457 Defined Contribution, Retirement Plan

- Optional Deferred Compensation plans (Roth IRA or 457)

- Employer sponsored life insurance

- Tuition reimbursement

- Employee Assistance Program

- Wellness activities and resources

- Generous accrued leave time (Vacation and Sick)

- 13 Paid Holidays 

- Professional Development Opportunities

- The Town is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Under the direction of the Sustainability and Resilience Manager, this position provides professional level support in the creation of plans, policies and strategies around the topics of climate change, sea level rise, energy efficiency, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The position assists with the development of criteria, policies, and procedures for sustainability programs, reviews, maintains, and updates data related to the Town’s energy use and associated emissions, tracks performance, and provides periodic reports on results and opportunities for improvement. 

Assists in the development of proposals for federal, state and private funding opportunities and their associated project scopes of work and budgets. Ability to work with town staff and leadership, partner with departments as appropriate, provide education and outreach to the public, business community, and local youth around sustainability principles. Must be available to periodically attend Board, Commission, Town Council, and Representative Town Meeting (RTM) meetings and represent the Town and participate in professional group meetings at various regional and state organizations. Assists the Sustainability and Resilience Manager in development of the Town’s internet and social media presence.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Skills and knowledge would be acquired with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Policy, Sustainability, Resiliency, Environmental Management, Environmental Studies, or a relevant or comparable degree. Master’s Degree in above mentioned fields may be substituted for experience, at the ratio of one year of education to one year of experience. A minimum of two year related professional experience including development and implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy programs is preferred.  A combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the responsibilities of this position may be considered in lieu of stated education and experience requirements.

Knowledge and experience in environmental management, climate change, resilience, energy efficiency, renewable energy and environmental sustainability principles. Understanding of mechanical assets found within Town departments desired. Effective verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail and initiative are required. Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision, assume responsibility, prioritize and resolve problems, work under pressure, and coordinate and manage complex projects. 

Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to maintain effective working relationships with business contacts, the general public, boards, consultants and with employees at all levels of the organization. Ability to research, analyze and synthesize complex information, develop and present recommendations and prepare concise written reports, correspondence and recommendations. Experience in research, policy development, and report writing is preferred. Ability and willingness to attend evening meetings. Experience with, or knowledge of, computer hardware and the Windows/Microsoft Office platform and software pertaining to the documentation and analysis of greenhouse gas emissions. 

Criminal background, drug testing, and driving record checks required prior to employment.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES:

Valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.

SELECTION PROCEDURE:

Review and screen of applications/resumes with best qualified candidates eligible for oral examination(s).

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Applications are available at the Human Resources Office, Groton Town Hall, 45 Fort Hill Road, Groton, CT 06340 or at www.groton-ct.gov.  Applications must be received on or before February 23rd, 2026.