Director of Energy Project Development

The mission of Indigenized Energy is to pursue tribal energy sovereignty through trusting partnerships and innovative programs that grow our collective capacity to unleash the power of renewable energy. With shared values, we work side by-side with tribes to help them pursue energy sovereignty based on their unique conditions, and develop their capabilities to plan, develop, and manage resilient and sustainable energy systems.

Indigenized Energy (IE), fiscally sponsored by Mission Edge San Diego, is a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to empowering tribal communities through sustainable and renewable energy initiatives. Our work, rooted in the principles of energy sovereignty and environmental stewardship, has been recognized and supported by prominent foundations such as the MacArthur Foundation, Energy Foundation, and Builders Initiative.

Job Summary

The Director of Energy Project Development (DEPD) plays a pivotal role in spearheading the identification, development, and management of energy projects tailored to the unique needs and goals of tribal communities. The DEPD is instrumental in steering projects from conceptualization through to execution and long-term sustainability, including funding acquisition, implementation, and maintenance planning. The DEPD also plays a critical leadership role in the execution of a 5 year, $135 Million Dollar Solar for All project funded by the EPA to deploy solar+storage systems in 14 native communities.

Areas of Responsibilities

Project Leadership and Management:

• Lead and oversee all phases of energy project development, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Guide projects through their entire lifecycle, from initial identification and conceptualization to implementation, post-completion evaluation, and long-term sustainability.

Strategic Project Identification:

• Identify and evaluate potential energy projects that align with tribal aspirations for energy sovereignty.
• Conduct feasibility assessments to ensure that projects meet both short-term needs and long-term strategic goals, while aligning with available funding and financing opportunities.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

• Engage continuously with stakeholders, including tribal leaders, community members, and local organizations, to ensure projects meet community needs and values.
• Serve as the primary point of contact, ensuring transparent and effective communication among all parties involved in project development and implementation.

Contract Negotiation and Management:

• Negotiate contracts with tribes, service providers, and other relevant parties, ensuring that project goals, deliverables, and expectations are clearly defined and agreed upon.
• Oversee contract execution, ensuring alignment with project scope and objectives.

Liaison and Collaboration:

• Act as the primary liaison among tribal leaders, external consultants, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Facilitate collaboration and maintain alignment across all parties throughout the project lifecycle.

Funding Acquisition and Financial Management:

• Work closely with the tribal energy managers and grant writing team to secure necessary funding for projects.
• Provide essential project-specific information to support funding proposals, ensuring financial viability and sustainability.

Field Operations Coordination:

• Collaborate with the Field Operations team to integrate on-site project management with overall project goals.
• Oversee contract procurement, ensure documentation and reporting are in line with funder requirements, and monitor progress against objectives.

Long-term Operations and Maintenance Planning:

• Develop and implement strategies for the ongoing operation and maintenance of completed energy projects.
• Ensure that projects remain viable in the long term and continue to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Project Management, Environmental Science, or related field or exceptional levels of experience in energy project development in tribal communities.
• 7+ years in energy energy project development and management, preferably in the renewable sector, with significant experience working on projects within indigenous communities and projects built with federal funding and/or innovative financing strategies.
• Exceptional construction contracting and project management skills, excellent negotiation and interpersonal communication abilities, adept in stakeholder engagement, knowledgeable in renewable energy technologies, and proficient in strategic planning and implementation.
• Must possess excellent interpersonal, oral/written communication, and strong leadership skills.
• Deep understanding of cultural sensitivities, and proficiency in strategic and execution.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), Google Suite, internet, HRIS systems, and Applicant Tracking Systems.
• Strong customer service, negotiation skills and ability to interact with employees at all levels throughout the company.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement employee engagement and retention strategies.
• Self-starter with excellent time management, multitasking and organizational skills.
• Creative in brainstorming and proposing new ideas and solutions to existing problems.
• Willing and able to travel occasionally, including overnight travel.
• Enthusiastic team player who understands the dynamic of working in a matrixed organization
• Outgoing with ability to provide excellent customer service to staff and external partners
• Excellent critical thinker and problem solver; able to make solid judgments and decisions
• Exhibits Indigenized Energy's core values

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Compensation & Benefits: $100,000 to $120,000 annually based on qualifications and experience. We have a comprehensive and competitive benefits package for full time employees including health insurance and paid time off.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment: This position will require working remotely, in the field and from your home (or other suitable place). Reliable transportation and dependable internet service at your home (or place of working) is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Mission Edge San Diego, the fiscal sponsor of Indigenized Energy, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, age, medical condition, sexual orientation, marital status, citizenship, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, caregiver status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Except as provided by Title 25, U.S.C. § 450e(b), which allows for Indian preference in hiring, Indigenized Energy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, sex, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, politics, membership or non-membership in an employee organization, marital status, citizenship or immigration status, veteran or military status, genetic information, ancestry or any other characteristic protected by law.