Community Engagement Intern

Job Description

Community Engagement Intern

Location: Charlottesville, VA

Duration: June 2026 – August 2026

About TerraForm Power

TerraForm Power (“TERP”), a platform company of Brookfield Renewable, attracts high-performing individuals who are driven to make an impact in a fast-paced and collaborative environment. We offer unparalleled opportunity to lead and manage one of the largest renewable energy businesses with decades of history, while contributing to the global need for sustainable energy.

We offer tremendous growth opportunity for individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset. The company is committed to employee development, encouraging curiosity, ownership, and continuous learning. You’ll be empowered to take initiative, contribute ideas, and grow your career within a supportive and ambitious organization.

Job Summary

We are looking for a highly motivated Community Engagement Intern to join our team of professionals at TerraForm Power. Reporting to the Director of Community Engagement, the intern will support the Greenfield Development Team with managing stakeholder relationships and community outreach for large-scale renewable energy projects across target markets. This role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to a growth-oriented organization, engage in key corporate initiatives, and gain experience and insight into the renewable energy industry.

Responsibilities

Research & Analysis

• Research and analyze community demographics, local stakeholders, and political landscapes for active and prospective project sites.
• Watch and summarize county meetings (Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission) and input data on company platforms.
• Track news and social media in project areas to develop and maintain weekly newsfeed resource for the broader team.
• Conduct online research and analysis of local county information and permitting requirements.

Community Engagement

• Assist in preparing materials for community meetings, public hearings, and stakeholder presentations.
• Develop, edit, and write content for newsletters, websites, mailings, and project collateral.
• Support the development and tracking of Community Benefit Agreements.
• Coordinate logistics for community events, site tours, and public meetings.
• Maintain and update stakeholder databases and engagement tracking systems.
• Participate in meetings with local officials, landowners, and community organizations.
• Support other community engagement initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

Education & Background

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Communications, Sociology, Planning, Community Development, Economic Development, or a related field.
• Genuine interest in local government, policy, and the political process, particularly in rural communities.
• Interest in renewable energy development.
• Interest in coalition building and community organizing.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable speaking in public and building trust with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to quality work product.
• Well organized; self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Design skills a plus (Canva, Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Familiarity with Airtable or Salesforce a plus.
• Ability to travel occasionally to community meetings and board meetings.
• A joyful approach to work and life combined with a sense of humor highly recommended.

What You’ll Gain

• Exposure to the full lifecycle of community engagement in renewable energy development.
• Experience supporting public meetings, permitting processes, and stakeholder outreach.
• Mentorship from the Director of Community Engagement.
• Professional development and networking opportunities.

Compensation: $25 per hour