Clean Energy Project Development Fellow

~ Groundswell organizes community power to bring economic equity to the energy sector. ~

We believe that clean energy is a necessity, not a luxury; we’re all in this together; and it’s not OK to leave our neighbors who are struggling behind. Today, many Americans with low to moderate incomes are paying 10% or more of their total income for electricity and at least half of America can’t access rooftop solar. The clean energy table is abundant, and Groundswell is working to give everyone a seat. That’s why we offer place-based programs in equitable community solar, energy efficiency, rooftop solar, and affordable wind power.

Position Overview

This is an exciting opportunity for a creative and ambitious recent graduate, current student, or professional looking to develop a career at the intersection of clean energy and social justice. The Clean Energy Project Development Fellow will be responsible for assisting in the technical project development process for Groundswell’s innovative community solar program.

The Fellow will work directly with Groundswell’s senior leadership to assist in all elements of the community solar project development process, including initial site development, technical project design, data analysis, financial modeling and project proposals and presentations. This position requires a high-level of drive and passion for our work around energy and economic equity and the ability to operate in a results-driven environment where innovation and creativity are valued and expected.

Responsibilities

Technical Project Development:

• Assist in the technical project development process, including site visits, assessing land and rooftops for the suitability of solar panels, initial project design in software systems, and determining the technical and financial feasibility of projects
• Participate in team meetings to assess ongoing project development processes and timelines, update project tracking software with site characteristics and next steps, maintain knowledge of project locations within Groundswell processes, identify new opportunities, and troubleshoot problem areas
• Research trends and best practices in community solar project development and present findings to organizational leadership, including utility regulations and relevant processes in regions of interest and appropriate software and strategies for presenting layouts and technical details to host sites

Community Engagement:

• Represent Groundswell and our community solar program at public events and activities in the communities where Groundswell’s community solar projects are being developed
• Maintain list of institutions contacted and work with the Community Engagement Team to track follow up details for each site
• Prepare legal and technical documents for Community Engagement Team to present to host sites throughout the community solar project process
• Assist in the preparation and presentation of Groundswell’s community solar program to a wide array of stakeholders by presenting webinars, writing website articles, and attending meetings with site hosts and subscribers

Qualifications

Desired Qualifications:

• Previous experience with clean energy project development, policy formation, or financial analysis
• Strong communication and public presentation skills
• Self-starter, motivated, able to work independently and manage multiple projects
• Strong planning capabilities, highly organized, and on top of all the details
• Familiarity with Salesforce or other CRM applications preferred but not required
• Ability to work nights and weekends, as needed

About You:

• A recent graduate seeking to pursue a career and/or further advanced degrees in engineering, environmental science, green business, or other related technical fields
• You’re passionate about clean energy and interested in developing your technical project development capabilities
• You’re ready to make a positive impact in local communities in Washington D.C. and Maryland, helping many who experience energy inequality
• You’re an organized, detail oriented team player willing to be held accountable to high standards and ambitious results

Compensation: This is a 12 month fellowship opportunity. Fellows are paid a competitive salary and an attractive benefits package.

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to upload your resume and cover letter detailing your interest in energy equity and relevant qualifications in order to be considered for this position.