Energy Conservation Program Manager

MARC is seeking a qualified individual to serve as an Energy Conservation Program Manager. This person will be responsible for the management of regional energy conservation projects carried out by MARC. This position will initially be responsible for overseeing the implementation of a three-year federal grant from the US Department of Energy to assist nonprofit organizations with energy conservation improvements to buildings they own and utilize to serve disadvantaged persons and families. 

Date posted: April 1, 2024

Position status: Accepting applications

This program manager will be the lead staff person responsible for management and implementation of a three-year federal energy conservation grant supporting non-profit organizations. The program manager will work with a team of other MARC staff and external community partners.

What you’ll do

• Support an outreach effort with partner organizations to make eligible nonprofit organizations aware of the program and encourage them to submit applications.
• Work with Climate Action KC/Building Energy Exchange to host a series of educational webinars and workshops on energy conservation measures, energy audits and needed workforce skills.  
• Work with project partners to convene a Community Advisory Board to assist in finalizing selection criteria and selecting nonprofits to be assisted through the federal grant.
• Work with engineering firm partners to complete energy audits, develop baseline estimates for energy use for each selected nonprofit organization's building.
• Work with MARC staff to prepare subrecipient agreements with nonprofit organizations selected for assistance, determine what technical support is needed.
• Work with engineering firms to support preparation of bid documents for selected energy conservation improvements, and support nonprofit organizations as needed in the procurement of contractors and suppliers and in the measurement of energy savings and emissions reduction.
• Work with MARC staff and engineering firm partners to review invoices for reimbursement to nonprofit subrecipients for energy improvements prior to payment.
• Work with MARC staff and external partners to prepare communications and reports for DOE and other stakeholders.
• Work with program partners to disseminate information about program impact to stakeholders and plan and offer showcase events with sub-recipients.
• Work with MARC team members to submit regular reports to the US Department of Energy. 

Skills you’ll need

• Ability to work with engineering partners and non-profit organizations to evaluate energy conservation improvements for their buildings and identify specific investments that could yield significant energy savings.
• Ability to evaluate energy savings and carbon emissions reductions on building improvements to establish baselines and estimates for savings.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, in a culturally sensitive manner with both individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to serve as a spokesperson and relationship builder.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, Teams, Office 365, and ability to learn and use various software platforms. Prefer knowledge of Energy Star Portfolio Manager.
• Knowledge of records administration and procedures to meet federal grant requirements.
• Ability to make timely, informed decisions that consider the facts, goals, constraints and risks.
• Provide excellent service to external customers, demonstrate a positive approach and provide timely and thorough responses.
• Ability to direct and oversee program activities and ensure deliverables are met. Clarifies the related roles and responsibilities, deliverables, milestones, limits for independent decision making.
• Prefer candidate with knowledge of energy audit requirements, energy conservation grants, loans, and tax incentives for building improvements.

Basic requirements

• A bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, construction management or building science, facility management, or a related field.
• A minimum of two years of progressive, related work experience is required. Additional experience may be considered in lieu of a post-secondary degree.
• Prefer individual with Project Management Certificate (PM) or Certified Energy Manager (CEM), LEED or another similar credential.
• Experience with clients, including local governments or non-profit organizations, to address facility needs, particularly in areas of energy conservation.
• Prefer knowledge of ASHRAE energy conservation standards, ASHRAE energy audits and building improvements to achieve significant returns-on-investment.
• Prefer experience in managing federal grants involving construction, including NEPA, Davis Bacon, Buy American and other requirements as well as federal reporting requirements.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license from the state of KS or MO.  

Starting salary for this position is from $75,000 to $92,000 per year, depending upon qualifications. MARC offers an attractive team-oriented work environment along with a competitive fringe benefit package. MARC offers employees the flexibility to work remotely for up to two days per work week. 

MARC provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. MARC may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.