Job Description

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 Tribal Utility Engagement Specialist (TUES) plays a critical role as the liaison between tribal communities and external consultants focusing on utility engagements and the integration of solar energy solutions such as net metering and community solar. The TUES will have a basic understanding of various business models and operations and energy policies affecting tribal lands. The TUES will maintain and manage a comprehensive database of utilities serving the SFA tribes and support tribes in navigating and optimizing their interactions with these utilities.

Areas of Responsibilities

Stakeholder Coordination

• Act as the main point of contact between Indigenized Energy, tribal communities, their utilities, and consultants/subcontractors, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration.

Information Gathering and Sharing

• Gather and organize information on utility policies and project updates from tribal partners, and relay key details to subcontractors. Likewise, share updates, requests, and inquiries from subcontractors with the appropriate tribal contacts.

Utility Database Management:

• Keep an up-to-date database of utilities and their policies that serve the SFA tribes, ensuring all information is current and easily accessible.

Tribal Support and Strategy

• Provide strategic guidance to tribes in their interactions with utilities, helping them plan and navigate negotiations on policy and engagement.

Policy Tracking and Advocacy

• Stay on top of state and federal policies, especially those related to net metering and community solar, that impact tribes. Advocate for policy changes that support tribal energy sovereignty.

Outreach and Education

• Lead outreach initiatives to educate tribes on forming or improving utilities, including the benefits of integrating solar energy into their strategies.

Feasibility Studies Coordination

• Oversee the development of utility feasibility studies, helping secure funding from internal, tribal, or federal sources to support these projects.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience in Utility Management, Environmental Science, Public Policy, Engineering, or a related field; additional certification in energy management or policy is a plus.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of effectively engaging with diverse stakeholders including tribal leaders, utility representatives, and policy makers.

• Basic knowledge of solar energy integration practices such as net metering and community solar, with an ability to navigate and influence related policies.

• Experience working with or for a tribal utility, or similar entity, with a strong understanding of utility operations and energy policy.

• A demonstrated ability to work effectively in a culturally sensitive and respectful manner with tribal nations.

• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), Google Suite, and project management software.

• 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: The salary range for this position is $50,000-$60,000 per year and is negotiable 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.

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