Gas Networks Ireland operates and maintains Ireland's €3bn, 14,758km national gas network, one of the safest and most modern renewables-ready gas networks in Europe. More than 720,000 homes and businesses rely on the network for secure and efficient energy.

Gas Networks Ireland has been tasked by Government with developing a Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve (SGER) to enhance Ireland's energy security and resilience. A dedicated project team has been established to develop the business case, undertake statutory planning processes, engage stakeholders, and oversee the development and delivery of this nationally significant infrastructure project.

The Role:

This is a 1 year fixed term contract reporting to the SGER Communications Lead, the Communications Specialist will support the planning, coordination and delivery of communications activities across the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve Project.

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring that project communications are delivered effectively, consistently and in compliance with statutory obligations. They will support stakeholder and community engagement activities, public consultation programmes, internal communications, content development, digital communications, events, reporting and project administration.

Working closely with the SGER project team and the wider Gas Networks Ireland Communications function, the Communications Specialist will help communicate complex technical information in a clear, accessible and engaging manner to a broad range of audiences, including employees, local communities, elected representatives, government stakeholders, media and the general public.

The role requires a highly organised communications professional with strong writing skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced project environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the delivery of the SGER Communications and Stakeholder Management Plan and associated communications activities.
• Assist in the planning and execution of public consultation, stakeholder engagement and community outreach initiatives.
• Develop, edit and coordinate a range of communications materials, including project updates, presentations, website content, stakeholder briefings, social media content and internal communications.
• Translate complex technical information into clear, accessible messaging for a variety of audiences.
• Coordinate communications activities with internal project teams and the wider Gas Networks Ireland Communications function to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with corporate communications.
• Support digital communications, website updates and social media activity relating to the project.
• Assist with the planning and delivery of stakeholder events, public meetings, conferences and briefings.
• Monitor media coverage, stakeholder feedback and communications risks, escalating issues as appropriate.
• Maintain stakeholder databases, engagement records and communications calendars.
• Support the preparation of reports, presentations, KPIs and briefing materials for project leadership and governance meetings.
• Support communication with suppliers, agencies and contractors as required.
• Ensure all communications activities are delivered in accordance with project requirements, statutory obligations and Gas Networks Ireland brand standards.
• Provide general communications and administrative support to the SGER Communications Lead and project team.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to one of Ireland's most strategically important energy infrastructure projects. As part of the Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve Project Team, you will help communicate a project of national significance that will strengthen Ireland's energy security while supporting the country's broader energy transition ambitions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• Degree or Diploma in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Business or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3-5 years' experience in a communications, public relations, stakeholder engagement or marketing communications role.
• Excellent written, editing and proofreading skills with strong attention to detail.
• Experience developing communications content across multiple channels and formats.
• Strong organisational and project coordination skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Experience supporting stakeholder engagement and communications initiatives.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and proactively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and digital communications platforms.

It would be beneficial but not essential to have:

• Experience working on infrastructure, utilities, energy, construction, environmental or public sector projects.
• Knowledge of planning and consultation processes relating to infrastructure developments.
• Experience supporting public consultation programmes and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Familiarity with media monitoring, social media management and digital comms analytics.
• Knowledge of communications risk management and issues management.

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Package/ Benefits

•       Competitive Basic Salary - €45,000 - €50,000 (DOE)

•       Loyalty Bonus

•       Hybrid Working

•       Laptop & mobile phone

•       Free Car Parking

•       Business hours 9-5 Monday to Friday