Community Engagement Manager
Waymo is seeking a Community Engagement Manager to join its Public Affairs team, focusing on implementing advocacy and grassroots campaigns to drive acceptance and adoption of autonomous driving technology. This role involves developing and executing local engagement plans in various urban markets to ensure that Waymo's infrastructure projects are understood and supported. The position is based in Mountain View, California, with a hybrid work arrangement.
Key responsibilities include developing and executing local engagement plans, partnering with cross-functional internal teams and local consultants for strategic planning and execution, proactively identifying potential community concerns such as construction noise or traffic, and implementing creative solutions to maintain neighborhood harmony. The role also involves managing multi-channel outreach efforts, including door-knocking campaigns, town halls, digital updates, and "coffee chats" to keep residents informed and engaged. Additionally, the Community Engagement Manager will translate technical infrastructure information into clear, relatable narratives and serve as a liaison between Waymo and key neighborhood stakeholders, including non-profits and small business owners.
The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in public affairs, community organizing, or local government relations. Exceptional emotional intelligence is essential, with the ability to remain calm and empathetic in high-pressure situations. Strong project management skills are required, including experience managing multiple simultaneous projects across different time zones and city jurisdictions, with input from various cross-functional internal teams. Stellar communication skills are necessary, with the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences, from city councilors to local shopkeepers. A willingness to travel up to 30% is also required to be physically present in the neighborhoods where the work is happening.
Preferred qualifications include prior experience in the mobility, transit, or logistics sectors, particularly in helping communities navigate the transition to new technologies. Experience working with diverse urban demographics and a deep understanding of the unique social and political fabrics of major metropolitan areas are advantageous. A proven track record of managing active neighborhood friction, such as construction mitigation, zoning disputes, or high-profile public feedback sessions, is desirable. Proficiency with CRM tools like Salesforce or StakeTracker and digital engagement platforms to track community sentiment and manage outreach data is beneficial. Experience using visual aids, maps, or digital media to simplify complex infrastructure projects for a non-technical audience is also preferred. Existing relationships with urban planning groups, accessibility advocates, or business improvement districts (BIDs) are a plus. Fluency in a second language, such as Spanish or Cantonese, is advantageous to ensure inclusive outreach in linguistically diverse neighborhoods.
The expected base salary range for this full-time position is $158,000 to $200,000 per year. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Waymo employees are also eligible to participate in the company's discretionary annual bonus program, equity incentive plan, and generous benefits program, subject to eligibility requirements.