Colorado Program Fellow

About the Fellowship

We are seeking a Colorado Program Fellow to support the solar deployment, advocacy and education work of SUN’s Colorado program.

This is a 15 to 20 hour (flexible) per week fellowship intended for a minimum of 9 and up to 12 months. Fellows may obtain college credit for this program or may opt for a monthly, living wage equivalent stipend of $1,500/month. Work hours can be flexible. All Solar United Neighbors fellowships are remote although there will be in-state travel and in-person events around the state the fellow is supporting. This opportunity is open to people of all educational backgrounds and work experience levels. For candidates without a high school diploma, some previous work experience is preferred. Candidates may be new to the field of solar and energy democracy.

The Program Fellow will support state program staff in their day-to-day implementation of solar co-ops and other deployment work, legislative and regulatory advocacy campaigns and public outreach and education about solar issues. Solar co-ops are programs that help a large number of people in a given area select a reputable solar installer and go solar.

Fellows will gain a detailed knowledge of solar and energy policy in the state in which they serve, valuable experience engaging with diverse stakeholders on solar issues, and an understanding of SUN’s unique model for building a clean and equitable energy system.

Responsibilities Include:

Go Solar Programming to accelerate the adoption of solar:

  • Support the planning and implementation of solar co-ops or similar Go Solar programs, which includes:
    • Cultivating partner relationships, conducting public information sessions, communicating with and supporting solar co-op members, facilitating the installer selection process, and managing installer relationships with co-op members and SUN.
  • Provide solar technical assistance by responding to inquiries, questions, and concerns of co-op participants
  • Educate the public about solar, promoting solar co-ops and other SUN resources through tabling and presenting at community events with the goal of growing and engaging our network of co-op members and volunteers.
  • Assist with ongoing low-and-moderate income (LMI) solar programs.

Advocacy and Education programming to advance solar rights:

  • Track local and state policy developments related to solar energy.
  • Assist in mobilizing SUN supporters around solar advocacy campaigns.
  • Attend public hearings, lobby days and other policy related events.
  • Participate in coalition meetings and coordinate with advocacy partners.
  • Implement other aspects of policy and advocacy work, as needed.

About you

The selected applicant(s) must have the following:

  • Resident of Colorado
  • Ability to work remotely in an action-oriented environment, with occasional in-state travel.
  • Access to a personal vehicle for in-state travel (SUN will compensate mileage driven in addition to the stipend)
  • Enthusiasm for SUN’s mission to build a cleaner and fairer energy system with rooftop solar as the cornerstone
  • Public speaking skills to articulate ideas and engage respectfully with diverse groups of people
  • Spanish speaking helpful but not required
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to work independently, cooperatively and effectively with the public, staff and volunteers. Strong ability to network, build trust, and build working relationships.
  • Proficient computer skills, including comfort working with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace (Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Gmail, Meet, and other browser-based tools)
  • The ability to multitask and self-manage their work, both on short and long-term projects
  • The willingness to be flexible and nimble as the needs of a state program change and external opportunities arise
  • A computer to work on throughout the fellowship and an internet connection that can support video chat
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong research skills

How to apply

Please submit your resume and a statement of interest to: fellows@solarunitedneighbors.org and include “Colorado Program Fellow” in the subject line.

We’re an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. SUN is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Solar United Neighbors welcomes candidates of diverse backgrounds and experience to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and those with a non-traditional education.