Job Title: Deputy Tribal Energy Capacity Building Program Manager
Job Type: W2 employee
Start Date: February 3, 2025
Location: Remote
Travel: Approximately 1 trip per month
Salary: $100,000 - $120,000, depending on skills and qualifications
Benefits: This position will have a comprehensive benefits plan that is competitive with the non-profit sector. This package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan with employer matching, and continuing education allowances. Additionally, we offer flexible work hours and the possibility of remote work arrangements to support work-life balance.
Application Deadline: January 10, 2025

About MTERA: The Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association (MTERA) is a non-profit intertribal organization comprised of Midwest Tribes. We are focused on planning and implementing innovative energy projects that honor the sovereignty and unique cultures of these Tribes. MTERA's mission is to promote Tribal sovereignty, energy independence, environmental justice, and economic development through renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives. Our projects are unique in their approach, combining traditional knowledge with modern technology to create sustainable and culturally respectful solutions, all while drawing on the shared strength, wisdom, and resources of Midwest Tribes.

MTERA recently received significant funding to support its clean energy projects, including a $62.3 million Solar For All grant and a $20 million Community Change Grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This is a critical time in the organization's growth as it expands its capacity and impact on Tribal Lands.

Job Summary: We are looking for a Deputy Program Manager for Tribal Energy Capacity Building to lead one of our key objectives: ensuring that Tribes in the Midwest region develop the internal capacity needed to achieve their energy visions. The Deputy Program Manager will report to the Director of Tribal Energy Capacity Building and be responsible for collaborating with Tribes to enhance their ability to plan, fund, and deploy valuable energy projects and programs. This role will involve leveraging the technical assistance and funding resources provided by MTERA and our partner network.

The Deputy Program Manager will support overseeing and implementing MTERA’s Tribal Energy Capacity Building programming, ensuring Tribes have the skills, knowledge, and resources to achieve their energy goals and objectives. The Deputy Program Manager will work closely with MTERA’s energy programs to align our capacity building objectives with our energy programs.

Skills: The responsibilities will include both project planning, program management, and project execution engagements and will require the following skills:

• Stakeholder management and partnership development
• Budget management and financial analysis – with a focus on grant-funded programs
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• Data analysis and reporting
• Experience using Customer Relations Management software
• Project management and team coordination (PMP certification or equivalent is a plus, but not required)
• Strategic planning and execution
• Post-award grant performance evaluation and compliance oversight
• Cultural sensitivity and cross-cultural communication

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Assist the Director of Tribal Energy Capacity Building in developing and implementing strategic plans for Tribal energy capacity building that align with MTERA’s mission and vision.
• Support the coordination and delivery of technical assistance, training, and mentoring to Tribes on aspects of energy planning, organizational development, and project management.
• Collaborate with Tribal leaders, energy staff, and stakeholders to build effective relationships and provide ongoing guidance and support.
• Help Member Tribes identify, apply for, and manage funding opportunities for energy projects and programs, working closely with MTERA’s Director of Tribal Energy Programs.
• Facilitate outreach and engagement activities to raise awareness of MTERA’s services and promote the benefits of Tribal energy development.
• Monitor and manage sub-award grants made to Member Tribes.
• Support the integration of MTERA’s energy programs by ensuring Member Tribes have the necessary internal capacity to plan, fund, and implement energy projects.
• Prepare reports and updates for the Director of Tribal Energy Capacity Building on program progress and outcomes.
• Coordinate with MTERA’s energy programs to ensure participants receive the appropriate capacity-building technical assistance.
• Provide administrative and logistical support for capacity-building initiatives, including organizing workshops, webinars, training sessions, and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields
• At least four years of experience in energy project or program management, preferably in a Tribal or non-profit setting.
• Understanding of Tribal energy and capacity and organizational development issues, opportunities, and challenges, and a commitment to Tribal sovereignty and self-determination.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office & Excel applications; familiarity with energy-related software and tools is a plus.
• Willingness and ability to travel within the Midwest region and occasionally outside the region.

Application Process:

Please visit the following link to apply online: https://www.mtera.org/current-job-openings

If you run into any issues with the online application, please submit a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to contactus@mtera.org.

We look forward to receiving your application! (Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.)