The Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) is responsible for the safe, reliable, and economic planning and operation of the Alberta Interconnected Electric System. We provide open and non-discriminatory access to Alberta’s interconnected power grid and also facilitate Alberta’s competitive wholesale electricity market. The AESO strives to foster an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace where people feel respected and welcomed for who they are, together we deliver high performance and innovative results.
Job Description
If you are a current AESO employee or contractor, please view openings and apply through our internal site at Workday.
Reporting to the Manager, External Relations, the Communications Advisor role will drive comprehensive communications strategies, tools and tactics. You will work closely with leaders and technical experts to influence public perception, fosters stakeholder trust and safeguard the AESO’s reputation.
Key focus areas include Alberta’s energy transition, market design changes, transmission policy updates, integration of large loads such as data centres, grid reliability initiatives, and related public policy discussions. As a trusted advisor, you will provide input to counsel and create clear, impactful communications for AESO executive, policymakers, media, stakeholders, and Albertans interested in the electricity industry.
This full-time opportunity offers a competitive salary, and a variable pay program. We also have paid vacation and flex time, health and dental benefits, mental health support, a defined contribution pension plan, and learning and development opportunities as part of your overall compensation package. We support a hybrid work environment and flexible schedule.
As a Communications Advisor, your contributions will span a broad range of strategic and tactical activities, including but not limited to:
Strategic Communications Partner with Corporate Communications to shape the AESO’s public voice, aligning messaging with corporate values and long-term strategy.
External Narrative Planning & Execution Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of communications and stakeholder engagement strategies that drive organizational objectives and the AESO 2025 Strategic Plan.
Content Creation & Storytelling Write and produce clear, compelling and impactful communication materials that amplify the AESO’s reputation as a trusted advisor and operator of the grid. Edit a wide range of content including technical and detailed reports, executive speeches, website copy, digital posts, external presentations, and briefings.
Quality Assurance Review, edit, and proofread communications for accuracy and alignment with corporate branding and standards. Ensure consistent tone, style, messaging and clarity.
Government & Policy Acumen Monitor legislative, regulatory, and policy developments affecting Alberta’s electricity sector. Assess implications for the AESO, prepare briefing materials, and support engagement with government. Ensure communications and stakeholder strategies reflect policy context and support constructive government relations.
Media & Crisis Communication Support the AESO’s media spokesperson by preparing background material, drafting key messages, and coordinating timely, accurate responses to media inquiries. Participate in the AESO’s on‑call rotation for emergent issues, helping monitor developments, and contribute to response planning during heightened media or stakeholder interest.
Issues Management Support day‑to‑day issues tracking, escalate risks, draft response materials, and coordinate with internal experts to support effective issues management and organizational preparedness.
Relationship Building & Integration Drive collaboration across Communications & Stakeholder Engagement and other AESO teams, identifying opportunities for aligning communication efforts with corporate objectives. Build proactive, constructive relationships with industry, government and media representatives.
This role requires a skilled communicator with a blend of technical expertise, creativity and a collaborative mindset. Key qualifications include:
A bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, Public Policy or a related discipline.
5+ years of progressive experience in external communications, media relations, or public affairs, ideally within a highly regulated, complex industry.
Minimum three years of experience directly influencing and working with senior executive teams, industry leaders, public policy makers and elected officials to achieve strategic business outcomes, preferably in the electricity sector.
Proven track record of managing complex and politically sensitive communications in challenging environments.
Exceptional writing and editing skills, with demonstrated ability to translate technical or policy-heavy content into engaging, plain-language communications for diverse audiences. Deep experience with Microsoft365 applications.
Experience supporting crisis communications planning and emergency preparedness exercises, and with proactive media monitoring for emerging or ongoing issues.
Strong public policy acumen, with a deep understanding of legislative, regulatory, and policy-making processes, preferably within the electricity sector or similar industry.
Demonstrated ability to provide strategic advice to executives and senior leaders.
Experience leading or contributing to cross-functional initiatives, providing strategic input that influences public policy or operational direction.
Strong digital fluency with tools such as Mailchimp, Meltwater, or similar platforms to provide performance analysis.
Application deadline: March 3, 2026
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If you are contacted for a pre-screening and/or interview, please advise of any accommodation measures required to enable you to fully participate. Information received relating to accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.
The Alberta Electric System Operator is unable to accept unsolicited agency resumes.
The Alberta Electric System Operator, and its members, officers, employees and agents (collectively, the "AESO") is committed to protecting personal information provided to it. When you submit your personal information to the AESO for the purpose of pursuing employment with the AESO, the collection, use and disclosure of personal information is in accordance with the provisions of the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) of Alberta.
As noted, the AESO is mandated to maintain the safe and reliable operations of the provincial power grid. As part of meeting its obligations, the AESO may require the successful candidate to undergo a criminal background check for the position. This collection of personal information for the purposes of a check will be conducted in accordance with Section 4 of POPA.
Top Skills
AESO Calgary, Alberta, CAN Office
Calgary Place, 2500, 330 - 5th Ave SW, , Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2P 0L4
