Outreach Specialist

Franklin Energy•Grand Rapids, MI

11d

About The Position

This position is responsible for developing, coordinating, supporting, implementing, and managing outreach functions and performance for both new program start-up and legacy programs. This position also coordinates with internal and external programs stakeholders on processes and procedures to achieve outreach results. This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required.
Technical school degree combined with demonstrated experience in the electric/gas utility field may be considered when deciding on this position
1 – 2 years of experience in the electric or natural gas utility industry, sales, commercial and industrial lighting, or conservation
Previous customer service experience required
Results oriented
Ability to work in a team atmosphere and to collaborate on continuous improvement efforts
Strong customer service and communication skills
Must be able to handle a wide work variety and work in a fast-paced environment
Must be a detail-oriented, organized, self-starter, and have an ability to prioritize workload
Ability to identify and resolve project application issues with customers and trade allies
Proficient in Microsoft Office, specifically Word, Excel and Outlook
Strong data entry skills in entering information in tracking systems/databases
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing with customers, clients and employees
Ability to analyze and interpret data and solve practical problems
Knowledge of mathematical concepts such as fractions, percentages and ratios
Committed to diversity and inclusion
Reliable transportation
Valid driver’s license
Willingness to travel more than 50%

Responsibilities

Apply fundamental sales processes, procedures, methods and techniques.
Understand and implement Sales Process, including but not limited to; Making outbound calls to new and existing customers to meet assigned energy saving targets Managing field time effectively with customer or Trade Ally visits Developing and presenting program presentations to spur project activity Responding to customer and Trade Ally inquiries and concerns by phone, electronically or in person to move projects towards completion Maximizes all opportunities in the process to close a project.
Recruit, train, educate and cultivate relationships with contractors and customers to encourage effective marketing of programs
Maintain knowledge of program “Best Practices”, individual program offerings and how they can serve customers including features, advantages and benefits
Support outreach work plan creation, monitoring and updates
Develop a comprehensive understanding of program’s strategic outreach direction and production levels to deliver established goals
Complete “search and discovery” work where the answers are not clear
Actively “cold calling” new potential suppliers/contractors and developing their participation in our programs
Perform event planning, coordination and presentations of programs
Research the markets, accumulating data on businesses, and identifying the key allies to be targeted on behalf of the programs
Identify improvement barriers and report information to Program Manager and Outreach Manager
Prepare weekly and monthly project based activity reports and track progress towards program goals
Assist in the implementation of specific energy efficiency programs in a “flex” capacity, according to defined budgets and energy savings targets
Ability to work effectively with non-outreach orientate team personnel
Contribute ideas being respectful and understanding of individual experience and knowledge compared to others
Willingness to take direction for other team members
Demonstrates honesty, keeps commitments and acts in a professional manner