Energy Advisor

About Polar Bear Sustainable Energy

Mission Statement: PBSE Cooperative seeks to provide innovative, accessible, and affordable energy solutions to member-owners' homes and communities that improve household health, wealth, resilience, and education.

Polar Bear Sustainable Energy (PBSE) is a cooperative based in Highland Park, Michigan serving members in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck. PBSE Cooperative seeks to provide innovative, accessible, and affordable energy solutions to member-owners' homes and communities that improve household health, wealth, resilience, and education. Our primary mission is helping members become more energy efficient and energy independent through home efficiency retrofits, and electrification projects. PBSE Cooperative currently has a dedicated board, a small but active membership, and a part time board administrator. We are now looking to expand our team and hire our next full-time employee. This is a big job that will require energy and dedication. The Energy Coach needs to be flexible and motivated by the mission of the organization.

Background: PBSE Cooperative was incubated by Soulardarity to be a vehicle for equitable access to holistic energy services, and our founding members are committed to advancing racial and economic equity in the energy system. PBSE Cooperative conducted extensive feasibility work which identified that residential energy efficiency was the most viable initial program for the cooperative, and secured funding for this position and an initial residential electrification and weatherization pilot program. PBSE Cooperative aims to be a source for holistic energy services, and board members have identified community solar and rooftop solar bulk purchasing as key points of program development. The general manager will lead the cooperative through forming its initial programs, pursuit of the resources and partnerships needed to support aggressive scaling and expansion, and development of a culture of deep member solidarity.

About the Role

We are seeking a dynamic individual to join our team with a strong commitment to community, racial and social justice. The ideal candidate will have a passion for centering historically marginalized and low-wealth communities in all aspects of their work. The chosen candidate will possess a deep understanding of the historical and systemic barriers that have impacted the lives and livelihoods of residents in Detroit and Highland Park. With a focus on outlining practical steps for energy conservation within members homes, the Energy Coach should possess a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in this capacity. The Energy Coach will be the first point of contact with program participants via phone, virtual, and in-person visits to program participant homes. This role presents an exciting opportunity for an individual with a strong dedication to making a positive impact in communities throughout the state of Michigan. If you have the required experience, a commitment to advancing accessible and affordable energy solutions to the community, and the ability to drive meaningful programs, we invite you to apply and contribute to our mission of creating sustainable and equitable solutions for the communities we serve.

PBSE Cooperative provides a technology stipend of $50 per month to eligible staff to subsidize the cost of internet and cell phone service. We also provide eligible staff with the use of employer provided computer equipment.

Key Responsibilities

The key responsibilities are the basic duties and estimation of the role. As PBSE Cooperative expands and takes on new projects, there may be opportunities, and sometimes requirements, to shift into new areas of work and responsibilities.

TheEnergy Coach will be responsible for helping to further develop PBSE Cooperative through the following types of program work:

Supervise Energy Coaching Program:

• Ensure the weatherization and electrification program aligns with the organization's commitment to advancing accessible and affordable energy solutions while centering cooperative members.
• Supports the implementation of weatherization and electrification initiatives in members homes.
• Scheduling and interpreting energy audits at member homes and identifying areas where energy use can be optimized.
• Developing and presenting detailed reports and findings to members, outlining practical steps for energy conservation.
• Leveraging federal, state, local and private funds, assist cooperative members in identifying funds and applying for funds.
• Assisting with the implementation of energy projects, including timeline management and overseeing project budgets.
• Staying informed on the latest industry trends, technologies and regulatory requirements pertaining to energy conservation, decarbonization, electrification and sustainability.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with members, contractors, community members, other Michigan EJ organizations and other stakeholders.

Community Engagement:

• Actively engage with program participants to understand and address their needs and concerns in the program.
• Lead efforts to develop outreach strategies and recruit new program participants to become cooperative members from the communities we serve into the weatherization and electrification program.
• Develop and implement program strategies that address the unique needs and challenges faced by cooperative members.

Design & Develop Monthly Program Progress Reports:

• Create reports that highlight the impact of the program on cooperative members and the communities we serve.
• Communicate program progress to stakeholders, both written and verbally, in a timely manner.

Design & Develop Program Budget Tracking System:

• Develop a tracking system that ensures funds are allocated appropriately across the program.
• Maintain up to date budget reports and provide them to stakeholders upon request.

Leverage Additional Funding Sources:

• Identify and pursue additional weatherization and electrification funding sources that align with the organization's mission.
• Advocate for resources that can enhance the impact of weatherization and electrification programs.

Conflict Resolution and Problem Solving:

• Anticipate and navigate potential conflicts before they arise with contractors to ensure they are meeting the needs of program participants.
• Develop problem-solving strategies that prioritize equity and meeting the needs of all stakeholders in the program.

Attend Board of Directors and Membership Meetings:

• Provide comprehensive program reports, written and verbally (in-person and virtual), highlighting the program impact.
• Advocate for strategies that align with the organization's commitment to racial and social justice.

Required Skills and Qualifications

This is not an entry level position and we understand that you may have different levels of proficiency in these areas. The skills and experience that we value most for this position are described in this section. Please consider applying even if you don’t meet all the required skills and qualifications listed.

Experience Managing Contractors & Subcontractors - minimum 3-5 years experience:

• Demonstrated experience in managing diverse teams and fostering an inclusive work environment.
• Proven track record of successful collaboration with contractors.

Knowledge in Weatherization, Electrification, Decarbonization & Home Repair:

• Familiarity with electrification and decarbonization practices that prioritize environmental justice.
• In-depth understanding of the specific challenges faced by cooperative members in relation to weatherization and home repair.

Program Management:

• Manage and lead programs related to weatherization, electrification, decarbonization, and home repair.
• Utilize project management methodologies to ensure efficient and effective program implementation that emphasize community-centric approaches.
• Proven program management skills with a focus on inclusivity and equity.

Customer Service:

• Provide exceptional customer service and responsive support to program participants, cooperative members and stakeholders.
• Prioritize the needs and concerns of program participants and members to ensure their satisfaction.
• Ability to provide customer service that is culturally competent and responsive to the unique needs of program participants.
• Dedication to ensuring a positive experience for all community members.

Commitment to Community, Racial, and Social Justice:

• Demonstrated commitment to advancing community, racial, and social justice in all aspects of the role.
• Proactive advocacy for policies and practices that promote equity within the organization and broader community.
• Center BIPOC, low-income, and historically marginalized communities in all initiatives.

Relationship Building:

• Establish rapport and collaboration with various stakeholders, including program participants, members, board, staff, contractors, and communities we serve.
• Engage with and mobilize program support from cooperative members and diverse communities.

Technology Proficiency:

• Possess proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Zoom, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools.
• Strong proficiency in relevant software tools to streamline communication and project management. Utilize technology to streamline processes and enhance communication.

Logistical Requirements:

• Maintain a reliable internet connection for hybrid/remote work and virtual collaboration.
• Ensure reliable access to transportation for on-site visits and community engagement.

The deadline to apply is December 8, 2024 at 11:59 PM.

Immediate hiring opportunity. If you are passionate and inspired by this role and our organization, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply

• A resume of no more than 2 pages
• A cover letter describing your background and experiences that you think qualifies you for the broad demands of this position
• Three references including names, email addresses, phone numbers, and relationship to you
• Incomplete applications will not be considered

What to Expect and Timeline

Only those candidates who are being considered will be contacted.

Candidates who are contacted for consideration can expect up to 2-3 interviews that will last up to 1 hour each.

Candidates who are selected for interviews can expect the interview process to take up to 2 weeks (possibly more due to end of year activities and the holidays).

The first interview will be conducted with the General Manager.

The second interview will be conducted with the General Manager and several members of the PBSE Board.

A third interview may be scheduled if needed.

Once an offer is made and accepted, the selected candidate can expect a start date within two weeks.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation

Polar Bear Sustainable Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We value the lived experiences of a diverse workforce and expect staff to be committed to building an inclusive culture. The organization encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information or characteristics (or those of a family member), disability, veteran status and any other characteristic or basis protected by applicable law.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you are a qualified individual with a disability and need assistance applying online, please email gm@pbse.coop. If you are selected for an interview, you will receive additional information regarding how to request an accommodation for the interview process.