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Net Zero Specialist
The Prairie Island Indian Community is a Sovereign Nation of Dakota people in southeastern Minnesota. As the largest employer in Goodhue County, the Tribe plays an important role in the economic strength and success of the region. The Prairie Island Indian Community is a federally recognized Indian tribe. The Tribe received recognition following the formal adoption of its Constitution and By-Laws on June 20, 1936, under the Indian Reorganization Act. The Tribe’s reservation was created in the late 1880s, when the U.S. Secretary of the Interior purchased and placed into federal trust approximately 120 acres of land for the landless Bdewakantunwan families residing in Minnesota.
We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Net Zero Specialist to join our dynamic team in advancing our clean energy and sustainability initiatives. This role will contribute to a diverse range of projects that will help the Prairie Island Indian Community (PIIC) achieve its goal of becoming a Net Zero carbon emissions community. The ideal candidate will have a background in sustainability, energy systems, and project management, along with excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills. The Net Zero Specialist will report to the Net Zero Program Manager and will work across multiple teams to help shape and implement decarbonization and clean energy strategies at PIIC.
$90,000 - $120,000
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Advance the strategic goals and objectives through departmental initiatives in alignment with PIIC’s Dakota Vision, Mission, and Values
Project Management:
Develop detailed project plans, including milestones, timelines, and resource allocation, to support smooth project implementation and delivery.
Manage day-to-day project activities, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to execute projects successfully.
Grants & Funding:
Identify and evaluate relevant grant/funding opportunities to support clean energy and sustainability projects.
Develop proposals and manage the application process from start to finish.
Support post-award grant/funding administration, including requirements-compliance and reporting.
Procurement:
Design and implement effective procurement strategies that align with Net Zero objectives and government policy.
Develop procurement documents, such as requests for proposals/quotes.
Support the evaluation and selection of suppliers and products.
Communications & Stakeholder Engagement:
Prepare reports, presentations, and other communication materials for leadership, stakeholders, and partners that support clarity, consistency, and engagement.
Develop employee training and awareness initiatives to help foster a culture of sustainability across the organization.
Plan and facilitate community events that support Net Zero goals.
Research & Data Analysis:
Collect and analyze data and other information on a range of decarbonization and sustainability topics.
Support PIIC energy/fuel data analysis and benchmarking.
Create data visualizations, charts, reports, and presentations to clearly communicate findings and present recommendations to non-technical stakeholders.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, or a related field
- 5+ years of relevant work experience AND 3+ years of experience as a key contributor to clean energy projects/initiatives (with strong understanding of foundational subject matter)
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Experience working effectively with cross-functional teams and diverse stakeholders
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage audiences
- Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to work under minimal supervision
- Proficiency in using a computer and common computer software programs (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Teams)
- Sensitive to Native American Culture
- Ability to maintain strict standards of confidentiality
- Valid driver’s license and proof of insurability
- Pass drug screen (UA) and a federal criminal background check
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge of and/or experience in sustainability data management software or tools (e.g., Energy Star Portfolio Manager) and standards/certifications (e.g., LEED, GHG Protocol, etc.)
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Must be able to walk, stand or sit for long periods throughout the day
- Must have the ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
- Position requires repetitive use and complete range of motion of fingers, hands, wrists in job related duties, i.e. telephone, computer, etc.
REQUIRED TRAINING:
- Harassment training
- Any position-related training as determined by department manager
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
- Work is performed primarily in an office setting, but may include occasional outdoor activities
Follow the provided link and submit information and a resume. Optional website, blog, or portfolio and LinkedIn URL submissions are available as well. Prairie Island Indian Community does extend preference in hiring Native Americans, so you may submit Tribal Affiliation and Tribal ID # to be considered under this preference, if applicable.
Position open until filled.
Application link https://piic.bamboohr.com/careers/213
