Job Roles

OFFSHORE WIND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OFFICER

Offshore Wind Community Engagement Officers act as the link between offshore wind developers and the communities affected by projects. This role focuses on building trust, sharing information, and ensuring local voices are heard throughout the planning, construction, and operation of wind farms. It suits people who enjoy communication, relationship-building, and working on projects that support Scotland’s transition to net zero.

More details

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  • Act as the main point of contact between offshore wind projects and local communities.
  • Organise and attend public meetings, exhibitions, and community events.
  • Explain project plans, timelines, and impacts in clear, accessible language
  • Gather feedback from residents, local businesses, and community groups.
  • Support consultation processes during planning and consenting.
  • Work with technical teams to address community concerns.
  • Help manage community benefit funds and local initiatives.
    Produce reports, newsletters, and online updates.

 

  • Location: Predominantly onshore.
  • Work Pattern: Commonly full-time, usually Monday–Friday, with some evening or weekend events.
  • Travel: Regular travel to community venues, project offices, and stakeholder meetings
  • Team Structure: You’ll typically work closely with planning, environmental, communications, and project management teams.

Essential Skills

  • Strong verbal and written communication.
  • Stakeholder and relationship management.
  • Active listening and facilitation.
  • Ability to explain technical information clearly.
  • Organisation and time management.

Useful Skills

  • Experience running consultations or public events.
  • Understanding of planning or consenting processes.
  • Conflict resolution and negotiation.
  • Digital engagement tools (websites, social media, surveys).
  • Knowledge of Scottish coastal or island communities.

  • University Degrees:
    • Communications, Public Relations
    • Social Sciences
    • Environmental Studies
    • Planning, Geography, or Sustainability
  • Professional Backgrounds
    • Local authority or public sector roles
    • Community development or regeneration
    • Third sector / charity engagement roles
    • Infrastructure or energy project communications
  • Graduate Routes:
    • Graduate programmes with renewable energy developers or consultancies.
  • Career Change Routes:
    • Professionals from housing, transport, infrastructure, or utilities often transition successfully.

Typically Required

  •  Degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Full UK driving licence (often essential for community travel).

Desirable

  • Knowledge of Scottish planning and consenting processes
  • Experience with community benefit schemes
  • PRINCE2 or project coordination experience
  • Equality, diversity, and inclusion training.

What is it like to be a Community Engagement Officer? Renee Kurowski's Story

Relevant Training Courses

Use the links below to find out more about the various courses on offer from a number of providers.

  • Undergraduate Degree in Communications – offered at many Scottish Universities
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Mediation & Conflict Resolution - find out more here
  • Engagement Skills Training – find out more here

The video on the right introduces Iberdrola Australia's Renee Kurowski who is their Senior Manager, Offshore Wind Stakeholder Engagement for one of Australia's first offshore wind farms in Gippsland, Victoria.   

Barry Faulkner, Community Liaison Officer at ESB

Salary and progression

Salary Range (Scotland)

  • Entry to Mid-Level: £30,000–£40,000
  • Experienced: £35,000–£45,000
  • Senior Community Engagement Manager: £40,000–£55,000+

Career Progression

  • Senior Community Engagement Officer
  • Stakeholder or External Relations Manager
  • Consents Manager
  • Corporate Affairs or Communications Manager
  • Community Benefits or Social Value Lead