ABOUT THE EMPLOYER
This energy cooperative was conceived in early 2002 as a way for the region to pool resources and expertise from local people who can then actually own some of the emerging renewable resource industry. It was the first renewable energy cooperative in Western Canada, and the second in Canada overall.
The cooperative is committed to making wind energy, geothermal heating, solar power, bio fuels, as well as energy conservation practices accessible and affordable for its members
By banding together, residents have a way to share in the abundance of renewable energy available in their region and to have a united voice in lobbying governments to encourage the move to renewable energy.
ABOUT THE JOB
This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in entering into the exciting and expanding field of solar energy technology in the BC and Alberta Peace Region. It will involve a combination of on-the-job field work for solar site evaluation, and in-house computer based solar PV system design, online learning and client interaction.
Applicant will need to show proof of a valid driver’s license and may need the use of their personal vehicle from time to time (reimbursed at current CRA rates).
Experience working within the cooperative business structure will also be valuable but not necessary.
This trainee position will consist of two primary areas for learning opportunities:
COMPUTER WORK IN-HOUSE:
- Training in the solar design software Helioscope, both online and with the cooperative's designer as mentor and teacher. With this knowledge the applicant will, (after training and practice) begin to design custom solar arrays for clients using this software and Google Earth and Google Mapping.
Over time, the applicant will also begin to learn solar equipment / installation pricing and ordering. - On-line courses on solar technology and applications from: HES PV (equipment, solar design, sales and pricing), Solar Alberta (Solar PV Design and Modeling), Enphase (solar optimizers and inverters), Solar Edge (inverters) and others as they become available. With knowledge the applicant will be able to advise potential clients as to technology choices, their pros and cons, costs and benefits.
- Assist the Office Administrator and the Executive Director with initial solar inquiries, data entry, follow-up calls with clients and other client-oriented tasks, as knowledge and ability allow. (This will also help provide real-time learning about practical solar applications for homes, businesses, etc and practice in talking to and educating the public about solar energy.)
- Become an expert on solar grants as they become available (such as the Federal Greener Homes Grant) to help and advise clients to apply for such, to research new grants that may apply and to talk to clients about financing options.
- Using the Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom, Indesign and Photoshop and other software for correspondence, spreadsheets, writing reports, data entry, record keeping, pricing, newsletters, press releases, website content, etc. Knowledge and experience in marketing, social media and public speaking are also assets.
ON-SITE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
- A potential solar sale and design often requires a site visit to the client’s home, business or farm. You will accompany and assist with solar site assessments across the BC and AB Peace regions, with the goal of being able to set up and perform such site visits independently. Client interaction, accurate note taking, photography (with and without a drone) may be involved.
- On an occasional basis you may accompany and assist the primary solar installer with solar installations across the service area, again providing on-site, hands-on learning. This hands-on learning will be invaluable when dealing with solar client inquiries and custom solar design, but the job is not focused on solar installation as such.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
LOCATION
Dawson Creek, BC
THIS IS A TRAINING POSITION
This position is posted by Iron and Earth. Your interest in this position would involve participating in the Net-Zero Pathways (NZP) Program, if eligible.
The Net-Zero Pathways Program will enable self-identified and engaged Indigenous and fossil fuel workers and their communities to diversify their skills into the net-zero sector. NZP is a 7-week program that provides one-on-one case management, employability soft skills teachings, and engagement with employers to recruit and hire skilled workers seeking reliable employment opportunities.
Week 1: Employability skills training and overview of renewable energy sector. NZP is a fully paid 5-day (including wrap-around financial assistance) employability and employer-based workshop with an overview of the opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
Weeks 2-7: Hands on training. We will assist in placing you in paid on-the-job training for 6 weeks with an employer in the renewable energy industry.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should fill out the Participant Registration Form as well as send their résumé/CV and cover letter to [email protected]
We believe in everyone. We see the strength in your unique history.
You've read all this way, you may as well apply!
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This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada's Workforce Solutions Program.
