Program Associate (m/w/d)

Our energy system is on the brink of a major transformation, and we're looking for someone to help us ensure this new system puts rooftop solar energy at the cornerstone!

Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit that started more than 15 years ago with a simple question. "Mom, can we go solar?" Since then, we've helped tens of thousands of people benefit from solar energy. We are dedicated to creating a clean, equitable, resilient energy system that benefits everyone - by helping people go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights.

About the Position

The Colorado Program Associate plays a key role in supporting the implementation of Solar United Neighbors' programs across the state, with a focus on expanding access to solar energy and supporting community-driven initiatives. This role balances grassroots engagement with program coordination, including building partnerships, supporting advocacy efforts, and managing solar group purchase campaigns in Colorado.

This position reports to the Colorado Program Director.

How to apply: If you think this job might be for you, please apply on our job board! Please include a resume with your application. A cover letter is optional; however, it can be a helpful way for you to communicate your fitness for the position if you think that may not be obvious from your resume.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401K with company match
• Flexible work schedule
• Paid holidays
• Paid sick leave
• Paid time off
• Bereavement leave
• Phone/Internet Stipend

Culture

At SUN, our culture is rooted in our people. We believe that meaningful work happens when everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to bring their full selves to the table. Our organization is built on 5 core values of being people-centered, equitable, inclusive, action-oriented, and committed to continuous learning. These values guide not only what we do, but how we do it, through collaboration, curiosity, and care for each other and the communities we serve.

We are proud to foster a workplace where diverse identities, perspectives, and experiences are celebrated. We prioritize employee well-being with flexible work environments, growth and development opportunities, and a strong sense of shared purpose. At SUN, we are more than a workplace, we're a community that values people, embraces progress, and believes in doing the right thing. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you're looking to be part of a mission-driven organization that truly invests in its team, but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every preferred qualification, we still encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Colorado Program in coalitions and at in-person and digital events.
• Coordinate with the Community Impact Associate to develop grassroots community engagement and volunteer development in urban, suburban, and rural communities.
• Engage with legislators, local governments, and partner organizations to advance the state program's policy and programmatic goals.
• Create resources to help SUN's Colorado supporters become more effective and informed advocates for solar.
• Lead in-state digital organizing efforts by collaborating with SUN's digital and communications teams and managing the Colorado Program Facebook page and listserv.

Work environment

With or without reasonable accommodation, this position requires:

• Ability to occasionally lift and move equipment or packages up to 50 pounds
• Ability to remain in a stationary position and work at a computer for extended periods
• Ability to travel occasionally by car and airplane to attend or support events, workshops and staff retreats
• Ability to stand for extended periods while leading events and/or community outreach activities

Core Competencies

At SUN, thriving means more than great work, it is about how we show up for one another, embrace challenges, and live our shared values. These Core Competencies guide our success together:

• Proactive and Accountable: takes initiative, follows through on commitments, and owns outcomes.
• People-Centered Communicator: communicates clearly and respectfully in both written and verbal forms. Seeks understanding through questions, engages in open dialogue, and is receptive to giving and receiving constructive feedback.
• Adaptable and Growth-Minded: embraces learning with curiosity and approaches change with flexibility. Comfortable navigating new tools, systems, and evolving ways of working.
• Collaborative and Inclusive: builds strong relationships across teams, values diverse perspectives, and creates space for all voices to contribute.

Required Qualifications

• Resident of Colorado
• Minimum 2 years of experience (professional or volunteer) with community organizing and project management
• Ability to work remotely, with frequent in-state travel (1-2 trips/month) and two weeklong annual retreats in the United States or Puerto Rico
• Ability to plan and execute presentations and casual events
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Spanish-fluency
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Detail-oriented and eager to take initiative
• Ability to engage with diverse groups of people
• Knowledge of social, energy, and/or environmental-related factors in Colorado

Benefits

• Hourly compensation of $27.00
• Fun, remote work environment
• Flexible work hours
• Generous paid leave
• Health, vision, and dental insurance
• $1,000/year professional development stipend
• $50/month phone and internet stipend
• 401(k) retirement account with match after 1 year
• Meaningful, impactful work

We anticipate accepting applications until second week of September, with the first review of candidates next week. However, we encourage interested applicants to apply as soon as possible, as we may begin interviews on a rolling basis.