Strategic Communications and Science Writing Lead, Cascade Institute Geothermal Energy Office

The Cascade Institute Geothermal Energy Office (CI-GEO) Strategic Communications and Science Writing Lead is a strong writer with two main responsibilities. First, they are responsible for developing and managing the CI-GEO policy analysis and strategic communications outputs. This includes responsibilities such as writing, revising/editing, document design, quality control, branding, and co-managing the workflow of the Cascade Institute’s Graphic Designer. Second, they share responsibility with the CI-GEO Director for ensuring that Cascade Institute policy analysis and strategic communications reach their target audiences and maximize their intended impact. To this end, the CI-GEO Strategic Communications and Science Writing Lead works with the CI-GEO Director and members of the CI-GEO Team to develop and execute knowledge mobilization strategies for each project. The CI-GEO Strategic Communications and Science Writing Lead reports to the Research Director.

Primary Position Outcomes:

• Support the CI-GEO Director in the conceptualization, creation, editing, and dissemination of high-impact policy analysis and strategic communications content across various platforms, including briefing notes, op-eds, social media posts, newsletters, press releases, website updates, speeches, and other strategic communications materials.
• Draft policy documents and strategic communications materials across a range of subjects related to geothermal power. Work with technical experts to convert subject matter expertise into actionable insights.
• Lead the quality control of CI-GEO analysis and strategic communications outputs by revising/copyediting deliverables and ensuring that deliverables, templates, and original designs align with the Cascade Institute’s branding and quality standards.
• Lead the production process (i.e., editing, design, quality control, branding, publication) for CI-GEO research and analysis outputs with the support of the Communications and Impact Team.
• Co-lead the CI-GEO knowledge mobilization process (i.e., development of dissemination strategies, organizing presentations, webinars, videos, etc.) with the CI-GEO Director and support from the CI-GEO Team and the Communications and Impact Team.
• Manage project timelines, triage tasks, and execute in collaboration with the Research Director, CI-GEO Director, and Communications and Impact Team.
• “Translate” CI-GEO outputs into plain-language summaries and other accessible media (e.g., videos, recorded interviews, podcasts, etc.).
• Lead the production of design/aesthetic components of CI-GEO analysis and strategic communications outputs with the support of the Communications and Impact Team and the CI-GEO Team.
• Support the Operations Manager and Communications and Impact Team in the planning and execution of events with a knowledge mobilization component.

The Cascade Institute is a Canadian research centre at Royal Roads University, in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It tackles the polycrisis — the interconnected crises facing humanity — and its consequences for democracy, energy, and other complex global systems. Institute researchers analyze these systems to understand how crises compound in pernicious cascades, and work with frontline actors to trigger virtuous cascades. By turning insight into action, we accelerate a shift toward a more resilient and hopeful world.

Job Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) with a focus in energy, environment, or communications.
• A minimum of 5 years professional experience in policy analysis, writing, editing, publishing, and/or knowledge mobilization.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to translate complex research findings into language for diverse audiences, including general audiences and senior decision makers.
• Proficiency in advanced communication tools and platforms, including MS Office Suite, cloud-based collaboration tools, Twitter, LinkedIn, and publishing software.
• Strong organizational, project management, and time-management skills, with the capacity to handle complex tasks and meet strategic deadlines.
• Experience producing visually engaging and aesthetically pleasing written/research outputs.
• A demonstrated commitment to quality, accuracy, and attention to detail, maintaining the highest professional standards.
• A positive attitude, strong interpersonal skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience conducting rigorous research and analysis within a team-based research environment.
• Familiarity with Canadian energy or climate policy, including federal and provincial policy instruments, regulatory frameworks, or energy transition debates.
• Experience writing for senior decision-makers, including government executives, Deputy Ministers, or C-suite audiences — particularly translating technical or analytical content into briefing-ready language.
• Experience supporting the launch or dissemination of a major research product (report, roadmap, strategy, or equivalent) with a defined public audience.

Additional Information This is a temporary, full-time position working 37.5 hours per week for a term from July 2026 until July 2028. This position has been evaluated at MPT-D with a salary range of $84,423 (minimum) to $99,223 (midpoint) to $114,023 (maximum) per annum. Employment offers will normally be made between the minimum and midpoint of the range and are determined by knowledge, experience and internal equity. The University is pleased to offer a comprehensive benefit package. Royal Roads University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our faculty and staff including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity.