Ohio Rural Associate – Solar United Neighbors
Our energy system is on the brink of a major transformation, and we’re looking for someone to help us ensure this new system puts rooftop solar energy at the cornerstone!
About Us!
Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit that started more than 15 years ago with a simple question. “Mom, can we go solar?” Since then, we’ve helped tens of thousands of people benefit from solar energy.We are dedicated to creating a clean, equitable, resilient energy system that benefits everyone – by helping people go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights.
About the Position
The Ohio Rural Associate will work closely with the Ohio Team, and the regional support team to carry out SUN’s goals in the state of Ohio. This position will focus on organizing rural electric cooperative (REC) member-owners in Central Ohio.
This position reports to the Ohio Program Director.
This position is funded for a 11-month term, with the potential for extension based on the availability of grant funding.
How to apply: If you think this job might be for you, please apply on our job board! please include a resume with your submission. A cover letter is optional; however, it can be a helpful way for you to communicate your fitness for the position if you think that may not be obvious from your resume. We will also ask all applicants to briefly answer in writing a question about your knowledge of and connections with REC territories.
Job responsibilities include:
Community Engagement & Advocacy (70%)
* Organizing and engaging with a diverse range of solar supporters in urban, suburban, and rural communities, with an emphasis on engaging solar supporters in rural areas.
* engaging with legislators, local governments, and partner organizations to advance the state program’s policy and programmatic goals, especially related to rural-based solar issues.
* Representing the state program in coalitions and at in-person and digital events.
* Growing and facilitating ongoing public education and volunteer engagement through regular communications,public speaking at events,and leadership development that support the state program’s policy and programmatic goals.
* Building a base of solar advocates (ex., REC member-owners, among others) in targeted territories who could be recruited to help advance pro-solar policies.
Program Coordination & Support (20%)
* Planning and implementing programs to help individuals and organizations go solar, cultivating partner relationships, engaging with the media, conducting public solar 101 sessions, and communicating with and supporting people interested in going solar.
* providing technical assistance to individuals and entities interested in going solar.
* Conducting policy, regulatory, and market research to support the state’s program goals, especially related to solar messaging for rural outreach.
* Creating resources and authoring timely content to provide in-depth information on relevant solar topics and helping our members become more effective and informed advocates for solar.
Association-wide governance (10%)
* Actively contribute to a workplace culture aligned with SUN’s values of equity, inclusion, continuous learning, action-oriented, and people-centered.
* Show up fully for learning and planning, and activities, including all-staff meetings, retreats, and strategy sessions.
* coordinate and work with external consultants as needed.
* Facilitate meetings, prepare agendas, and take notes.
* As a key member of the team, contribute to brainstorming, developing, and executing new ideas.
* manage your own regular administration, including timely submission of timesheets, receipts, reimbursements, scheduling, traveling planning, and HR paperwork.
* Other projects or tasks as assigned.
Work surroundings
This position requires the ability to:
* Occasionally lift and move equipment or packages up to 50 pounds
* Remain in a stationary position and work at a computer for extended periods
* Frequent travel by car to attend or support events and workshops. Occasional travel by airplane to staff
Summary of the Solar United Neighbors (SUN) Organizer Position
This job description outlines a position for an Organizer at Solar United Neighbors (SUN), a non-profit organization focused on promoting renewable energy.Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:
Job Summary:
The Organizer will be responsible for building and leading grassroots campaigns to advance solar energy adoption in Ohio (and potentially Indiana, based on a repeated “Preferred Qualification”).This involves community engagement, event planning, project management, and interaction. A notable portion of the role involves travel within Ohio and occasional travel for staff retreats.
Key Responsibilities:
* Community Organizing: Building relationships with community members, local leaders, and stakeholders.
* Event Planning & Execution: Organizing and supporting events, workshops, and community outreach activities.
* Project Management: Managing projects from start to finish, ensuring timely completion.
* Communication: Communicating effectively through various channels (written, verbal, online).
* Travel: Frequent in-state travel within Ohio (25%) and biannual travel for staff retreats.
* Representation: Representing SUN at events and in the community.
Essential Skills & Qualifications:
* Experience: Minimum 2 years in grassroots organizing,event planning,project management,online engagement,or communications.
* Location: Must be a resident of Central Ohio.
* Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Ability to engage with diverse groups, communicate clearly, and build relationships.
* Technical Skills: proficient in computer skills, online facilitation, and social media.
* Transportation: Valid US driver’s license and reliable transportation.
* Work Style: Ability to work remotely,manage multiple projects,and be action-oriented.
Desired Skills & Qualifications:
* Collaboration and networking abilities.
* Strong verbal and written communication skills.
* Organizational, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
* Knowledge of social, energy, and/or environmental issues (specifically in Ohio and potentially Indiana).
* Public speaking skills.
* Experience working with rural communities.
Company culture & Values:
SUN emphasizes a people-centered, equitable, inclusive, action-oriented, and continuously learning environment. They value diversity and encourage applications from individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences.
Application Timeline:
Applications are being accepted until the third week of December, with initial reviews starting next week. Rolling interviews may begin in the second week of December or first week of January. Early application is encouraged.
In essence, this is a field-based role for a motivated individual passionate about renewable energy and community organizing.