Associate Manager

The Associate Manager plays a vital role in implementing Distributed Energy Resource (DER) incentive programs administered by CSE and is primarily responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of one or more projects in the portfolio of these DER programs. Core duties include: managing program staff and budget(s) to ensure project tasks are completed correctly, efficiently, on-time, and within budget, project reporting, customer service, as well as DER technology installation tracking and market development. This position may engage with state regulatory staff, utility staff, industry stakeholders and customers installing distributed generation systems daily. 

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Program Oversight
• Supervise and train supporting staff in administering the program(s) which includes application processing, marketing and outreach campaign implementation (if applicable), and public reporting;
• Manage client relationships;
• Conduct periodic program process evaluations to streamline application and payment procedures;
• Maintain QA/QC project application review and processes. Oversee the coordination of application reviews between program staff and engineers/specialists to ensure technical reviews and inspections are efficient and accurate;
• Prepare regular metric reports and analysis for program(s). Ensure program data integrity by maintaining strict oversight of program database and internal processes;   
• Present reports defining progress, problems and solutions for program(s); 
• Manage program budget(s) and regularly monitor actual expenses versus budgeted amounts.  Communicate significant budget variances to executive management.  Recommend budget revisions and/or changes to program activities that keep expenses within budget and staff utilization rates on target.
• Customer Service 
• Represent CSE and provide exceptional customer service to contractors and relevant stakeholders on rebate program eligibility and application processes;
• Address unique and escalated program issues;
• Field inquiries about DER-eligible technologies and program requirements. Schedule meetings with stakeholders upon request, including applicants, manufacturers, developers, performance data providers, and current and prospective customers;
• Meet with public and respond to requests for information.
• Outreach and Education
• Participate and present CSE DER programs information and updates through public speaking at events, conferences, webinars and workshops (work on weekends may be required).
• Project Management Support
• Provide support to other team program managers, distributed energy resources managers and other CSE team members.
• Act as primary liaison between statewide database provider and Program Administrators to ensure database activities and updates meet expectations and are consistent with CPUC policies;  
• Collaborate with Program Administrators, California Public Utility Commission staff and subcontractors to ensure consistency in statewide policies, processes and communication;
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of project management principles working knowledge of project management principles, managing grant agreements and government contracts.
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, and the ability to build strong professional relationships over the phone and in-person.
• Must be organized, detail oriented, and able to prioritize workload and schedules based on the needs of the program.
• Ability to apply independent judgment, discretion and initiative to address problems 
• Ability to learn complex procedures and policies quickly.
• Strong conflict management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work effectively under deadlines with excellent time management skills.
• Previous experience in a fast-paced environment with the proven ability to perform office assignments proficiently.
• General knowledge of energy issues with basic understanding of renewable/distributed energy policy and technologies. 
• Proficiency with standard office software packages such as MS Office: Access, Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.  Demonstrable proficiency in Excel.

• Experience working with a database and handling complex administrative processes
• Prior work experience with solar contractor/industry, community-based organizations, and public agency groups
• Prior experience with public speaking and giving presentations
• Bilingual reading, writing and speaking in both English and another language (Spanish preferred)

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required; Master’s degree preferred

Experience:

• Min. 3 years of related experience