Director of Field Operations, Operations & Maintenance

The mission of Indigenized Energy is to pursue tribal energy sovereignty through trusting partnerships and innovative programs that grow our collective capacity to unleash the power of renewable energy. With shared values, we work side by-side with tribes to help them pursue energy sovereignty based on their unique conditions, and develop their capabilities to plan, develop, and manage resilient and sustainable energy systems.

Indigenized Energy, fiscally sponsored by Mission Edge San Diego, is a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to empowering tribal communities through sustainable and renewable energy initiatives. Our work, rooted in the principles of energy sovereignty and environmental stewardship, has been recognized and supported by prominent foundations such as the MacArthur Foundation, Energy Foundation, and Builders Initiative.

Job Summary
The Director, Field Operations and Maintenance (DFOM) will lead and inspire our field teams to achieve operational excellence, ensuring the seamless execution of our services and the highest level of customer satisfaction. The DFOM will oversee the maintenance, monitoring, and repair of portfolios of distributed renewable energy assets, including photovoltaic (PV) systems and energy storage systems. The DFOM will train and manage teams responsible for maintaining these assets, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

Additionally, the DFOM will oversee the financial oversight of our portfolios, either directly or through outsourcing. This includes generating customer invoices, reporting on portfolio performance, and managing accounting functions and incentive claims. By leveraging innovative solutions and building strong partnerships, the DFOM will drive performance, enhance service delivery, and contribute to the overall success and growth of Indigenized Energy.

Areas of Responsibilities
In addition to these main duties IE is looking for support and expertise in managing other aspects of the company's mission. This position is desiring oversight and management of operations and maintenance.

Field Operations Management

• Leadership and Supervision: Provide leadership and supervision to field operations teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
  • This position will be directing the efforts of multiple teams across multiple reservations within a given region of the Northern Plains.
• Resource Allocation: Efficiently allocate resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to ensure smooth field operations.
  • This position will work closely with the tribal relations department to coordinate and support tribal entities that are not employed by indigenized Energy
• Project Scheduling: Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, ensuring timely completion of tasks and milestones.
  • This position will work closely with EPC contractors and sub contractors in the region for system installation and training
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor and evaluate the performance of field operations teams, implementing improvements and corrective actions as needed.

Operations and Maintenance Management:

• Oversee the operations and maintenance of distributed renewable energy assets, ensuring optimal performance.
• Develop and implement Operations and Maintenance strategies and best practices for PV systems and energy storage systems to minimize downtime.
• Support customer support, monitoring, troubleshooting, and repair teams in compliance with customer agreements.
• Implement a robust Customer Relationship Management platform for efficient customer support and field service management.
• Establish preventive maintenance programs for commercial projects to maximize asset lifespan and minimize downtime.
• Prepare and present performance reports detailing asset performance, maintenance activities, and financial metrics.

Training and Development:

• Design and deliver training programs for internal teams and service providers on renewable energy asset maintenance.
• Ensure personnel are equipped with necessary skills and knowledge for effective and safe operations.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the Operations and Maintenance team.

Financial Responsibilities:

• Manage customer invoicing for PPAs and leases in compliance with fair lender laws.
• Oversee accounting functions related to portfolio performance against revenue and cost models.
• Coordinate claiming and documentation of incentives such as tax credits.

Stakeholder Management:

• Act as primary contact for financial entities owning energy portfolios.
• Maintain strong relationships with end customers to ensure satisfaction and address issues promptly.
• Deliver performance reports to internal and external stakeholders, driving improvements in sales and installation practices.

Strategic Planning and Innovation:

• Develop long-term strategies for Operations and Maintenance to enhance efficiency and scalability.
• Monitor industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes for strategic advantage.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field; or equivalent experience is desired, but not required.
• 3+ years experience in Field Operations and Maintenance within the renewable energy sector, with a focus on PV systems and energy storage is a huge plus.
• Proven track record of managing and developing Field O&M teams.
• Strong understanding of financial management, including invoicing, reporting, and accounting functions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with third-party financial entities and other external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in O&M software, monitoring systems, and data analysis tools.
• Certification in relevant industry standards and practices, such as NABCEP, is a plus.
• Excellent critical thinker and problem solver; able to make solid judgments and decisions.
• Exhibits Indigenized Energy’s core values

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range for this poisition is $100,000-$115,00 per year and is negotiable based on qualifications and experience. We have a comprehensive and competitive benefits package for full time employees including health insurance and paid time off.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

This position will require working remotely, in the field and from your home (or other suitable place). Reliable transportation and dependable internet service at your home (or place of working) is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Except as provided by Title 25, U.S.C. § 450e(b), which allows for Indian preference in hiring, Indigenized Energy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, sex, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, politics, membership or non-membership in an employee organization, marital status, citizenship or immigration status, veteran or military status, genetic information, ancestry or any other characteristic protected by law.