Director of Field Operations, Contractor Liaison (DFOCL)

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, Contractor Liaison (DFOCL) 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 DFOCL will be committed to fostering a culture of high communication, safety, efficiency, continuous improvement and a culture of training and development while aligning field operations with Indigenized Energy’s strategic goals. The DFOCL will also leverage innovative solutions and build strong partnerships with a drive towards performance, enhanced service delivery,and contribution to the overall success and growth of Indigenized Energy.

Areas of Responsibilities
In addition to the primary responsibilities, IE seeks support and expertise in managing various aspects of the company's mission. This position will oversee, manage and drive communication between IE and our contractors.

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.

Contractor Management

• Liaison Role: Refine and improve protocols for each point of contact between Indigenized Energy and contractors, facilitating clear and effective communication.
• Contractor Selection: Participate in the selection and vetting process of contractors to ensure they meet company standards.
• Contract Negotiation: Assist in negotiating contract terms, scope, and pricing with contractors.

Project Coordination

• Project Planning: Collaborate with project managers to develop detailed project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and milestones.
• Resource Management: Coordinate the allocation of resources (labor, equipment, materials) to ensure optimal efficiency and productivity.
• Progress Monitoring: Regularly monitor project progress and address any issues or delays that arise.

Performance Management

• Contractor Performance: Evaluate contractor performance regularly to ensure they meet project requirements and standards.
• Feedback and Improvement: Provide constructive feedback to contractors and support them in implementing improvements.
• Issue Resolution: Address and resolve any conflicts or issues that arise between the company and contractors.

Reporting and Documentation

• Status Reports: Prepare and present regular reports on field operations, project status, and contractor performance to senior management.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of all field operations, contracts, and communications with contractors.

Budget and Cost Management

• Budget Oversight: Monitor project budgets and expenditures, ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Cost Control: Identify and implement strategies to control costs without compromising quality or safety.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Internal Communication: Ensure effective communication and collaboration between field operations teams and other departments within the company.
• Client Relations: Maintain positive relationships with clients, addressing their concerns and ensuring their satisfaction with project outcomes.

Continuous Improvement

• Process Optimization: Identify opportunities for improving field operations processes and implementing best practices.
• Training and Development: Support the professional development of field operations staff and contractors through training programs and mentoring.

Leadership and Training

• Leadership: Provide strong leadership to field teams, fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Training: Create and foster an environment that will identify, train, grow and develop new talent and develop them for leadership potential.

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 Operations within the renewable energy sector, with a focus on PV systems and energy storage is a huge plus.
• 7+ years Proven track record of contractor selection, contract negotiation, and contractor management.
• Strong understanding of financial management, including budgeting, cost control, and reporting.
• 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-$115,000 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.