Texas Energy Poverty Research Institute (TEPRI): Program Manager
Mission
The Texas Energy Poverty Research Institute (TEPRI) is a nonprofit 501(c)3 that advances equitable solutions for affordable, reliable, and clean energy. We accelerate the move towards an energy system that supports healthy, thriving communities. We work with teams of experts from inside and outside the energy sector to conduct research, build evidence, create tools for practitioners, and partner with local jurisdictions to demonstrate new models that can scale for widespread impact for people who contend with low-incomes.
Expectations of Program Manager
TEPRI seeks a Program Manager to develop and manage energy projects that support TEPRI’s goals including piloting market-based solutions such as solar/storage/virtual power plants. Our objective is to create new pathways for people who contend with low-incomes to benefit from the newest energy technologies. We are seeking candidates with keen intellectual curiosity and a deep interest in making a positive impact at the intersection of energy and poverty. The Program Manager will work closely with TEPRI staff to achieve the objectives of TEPRI’s strategic plan.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience managing project teams, a strong creative and entrepreneurial spirit, technical skills in the solar and energy sector, experience communicating with different types of stakeholders, and exceptional skills in building relationships with diverse stakeholders. Essential duties include:
Program Management Responsibilities (70%)
• Manage and expand TEPRI’s solar/storage/virtual power plant portfolio.
• Develop TEPRI’s energy efficiency and demand response portfolio.
• Negotiate and oversee contracts that align with TEPRI’s mission and research including future proofing designs.
• Oversee creation of resilience hub operating procedures and develop relationships with local organizations involved in disaster preparedness.
• Support TEPRI’s research and education initiatives by testing assumptions before and after installation of systems.
• Develop financing models and funding pathways to bring projects to fruition.
• Support the development of grant funding for TEPRI initiatives.
• Participate on relevant industry committees and working groups.
• Effectively communicate the work of TEPRI to a broad stakeholder network.
• Manage staff, project budgets, compliance, metrics, and timelines.
Program Support Responsibilities (15%)
• Support TEPRI team members on their project portfolios.
• Participate in writing reports for publication and stakeholder networks.
Other Organizational Support (15%)
• On an as-needed basis, support other programs including community outreach.
• Support TEPRI’s social media accounts and participate in the creation of communications.
• Assist in writing funding proposals.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
• Masters degree with a minimum of 4+ years of professional work experience in a related field, or Bachelors degree with 6+ years of professional work experience in a related field.
• Experience working in a team environment, alternating between team player and team lead.
• Experience with a mix of private and public sector, project-based environments including project development, university research, consulting, or professional services preferred.
• Experience adapting communication mediums to meet different types of stakeholders.
Skills and Abilities
• Knowledge of competitive and vertically integrated electric markets.
• Financial analysis skills to determine best equipment design, retail plans, and options to braid multiple funding sources such as tax credits, grants, and equity.
• Familiarity with Public Utility Commission and ERCOT processes and avenues for engagement.
• Demonstrated project management skills including budgeting, compliance, adhering to timelines. Ability to conceptualize projects, track progress, and communicate results.
• Must be able to work independently and enjoy figuring out complex project challenges.
• Willingness and ability to learn new subject areas and skills.
• Ability to communicate complex technical findings in a succinct and easy-to-understand manner using captivating language meant to engage the public.
• Must be creative and undeterred by challenges.
• Must be flexible and capable of changing directions as opportunities arise.
• Demonstrated professionalism and the ability to act or speak on behalf of the organization.
• Ability to develop strong relationships, work collaboratively, motivate partners.
• Management experience a plus.
• Experience working with federal contracts a plus.
Communication, Outreach, and Culture
• Strong communication skills including writing and speaking to community leaders, businesses, and donor audiences.
• Able to handle media inquiries and engage technical and non-technical audiences.
• Skilled at getting along with a wide variety of people who have diverse perspectives.
• Ability to meet commitments on time and within budget.
• Practices patience, respect, and kindness, and brings joy to your interactions.
• Good sense of humor.
Environment
TEPRI is a young and growing non-profit. We have a small team of innovative and creative thinkers. Our team works in an office space located on W. 6th Street in downtown Austin, Texas and has a hybrid in-office/virtual work schedule. We encourage everyone across the spectrums of race, ethnicity, nationality, ability, age, gender identity and expression, educational background, sexual orientation, and religion to apply.
Compensation and Contract
TEPRI offers a competitive salary and health/retirement benefits. Salary range is negotiable based on experience.
Please send resume and cover letter to:
Margo Weisz
Executive Director
margo@tepri.org
