Solar United Neighbors is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to building a new energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. We are the only national organization that represents the needs and interests of solar homeowners in policy forums. Through our work on the ground helping communities build new renewable energy projects, we gain practical insights into the real needs and gaps in the marketplace and build a diverse, passionate community of solar supporters. Together, we are building a clean, equitable energy system that directs control and benefits back to local communities.

We are seeking a Development Director to support Solar United Neighbors’ continued growth into new program areas and geographies. We are looking for someone who is ready to jump in and help take Solar United Neighbors to the next level. We need an individual who will bring creativity, depth, and passion to helping achieve our mission.

The Development Officer is an integral part of the organization’s fundraising team and reports to the Executive Director. This organization is not a big bureaucracy, you will have the opportunity to have real impact and directly influence the strategic direction of our work and mission. This position is based in our main office in Washington, DC. 

Travel requirements for this position will be minimal aside from twice annual all-staff retreats. This position is full-time and includes full benefits including healthcare, 403b contributions, and organizational commitment to employee development. Job duties include the following, as well as additional duties as assigned.

Responsibilities:

Grant writing and grants management (Primary responsibility)

• Write grant proposals for funding from foundations, government agencies, and other grant-making institutions. Coordinate with program and executive staff to ensure that proposals are tightly aligned with program priorities, and with accounting staff for necessary financial documents.
• Track all grants in Solar United Neighbors’ existing platform (Salesforce), and ensure that reports, renewal requests, and all other compliance tasks are completed and submitted in a timely and professional manner.
• Research, prospect, and cultivate new funders for multiple program areas -- especially family foundations, private foundations, and government grant opportunities.
• Coordinate with key staff to draft, edit, and submit letters of inquiry, proposals, budgets, narrative and financial reports, and other documents to funders.
• Carry out topical research related to new programs under development.
• Represent Solar United Neighbors at meetings and gatherings.
• Network with and cultivate grant officers and potential donors.

 Program management

• Maintain office systems and work processes related to grant tracking and applications.
• Complete the intake process for grant checks.
• Evaluate data on grant fundraising trends and program outcomes to continually improve our efficiency and effectiveness. Provide results and feedback to management.
• Continually learn about and track relevant developments in the philanthropy and renewable energy fields to inform our work. 

Additional duties as identified. For example, this may include providing some support to other areas of the organization’s fundraising such as individual donor development, major donor development and corporate sponsorships.

Applicant Qualifications

• 2-10 years of experience required.
• Experience in grant writing and grants management is highly preferred.
• Interest and experience in renewable energy, economic or environmental justice, grassroots advocacy, or nonprofit management is highly preferred.
• Exceptional writing and communication skills required. Excellent written English usage, grammar, and punctuation. Clear and concise writing is a must.
• ?High level communication skills – particularly in pitch, negotiation and persuasion.
• Self-motivated person who takes initiative to begin and complete projects but also uses a highly collaborative work style.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite required.
• Willingness to utilize Salesforce for all grant tracking required (training is provided).
• Ability to quickly learn and have a high level of comfort with new technology systems.
• Friendly and flexible team player attitude with a willingness to pitch in on projects and tasks is a must.
• Excellent follow-through and attention to detail, with the ability to track and maintain multiple critical priorities. 

Other Information

Employees must adhere to all applicable Solar United Neighbors policies and procedures. Regular and predictable attendance is required. Employees must be able to cope effectively with deadlines and multiple demands.

Travel requirements for this position will be minimal aside from twice annual all-staff retreats. At this time, the position does not include managing other employees. This position is full-time and includes benefits. Salary commensurate with experience. 

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter to Emily Stiever at jobs@solarunitedneighbors.org

Solar United Neighbors is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate and will take affirmative measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant on the bases of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran's status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. To be considered, applicants must have the right to live and work in the United States. We are unable to sponsor work authorization for this position.