Energy Storage Project Manager, Morris

About the Job

The University of Minnesota Morris (UMM) seeks to hire an Energy Storage Project Manager (8352P1 Research Professional 1 or 8352P2 Research Professional 2). UMM in partnership with Otter Tail Power Company and OATI have received a grant to fund a large-scale energy-storage demonstration project. The project has a specific goal of installing, operating, and analyzing the performance of a 1 MW battery that will integrate into the campus's electrical grid, which is largely powered by clean energy. The project is a grant that is funded by the LCCMR process via the State of Minnesota Environmental Natural Resources Trust Fund. This position is a unique opportunity to work with industry and higher education partners on a novel and high visibility technical project. The position also provides an opportunity to learn and grow in an emerging clean energy field and have an opportunity to learn project management skills.

This is a 100% time, in person position reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Facilities with grant funding approved until 6/30/2027.

This position will be offered in either of the following classifications and duties, depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate:

• For 8352P1 Research Professional 1 - BA/BS or equivalent combination of education and work experience to equal four (4) years.
• For 8352P2 Research Professional 2 - BA/BS plus at least two (2) years of related experience or a combination of education and work experience to equal six (6) years.

UMN Morris is dedicated to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. The University of Minnesota is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQIA2S+, women,and members of historically underrepresented communities are highly encouraged to apply.

Job Duties/Responsibilities:

Coordinate, Organize and Develop the project - 40%

• Lead project team with members from the University of Minnesota Morris, Otter Tail Power Company, OATI and other members that join the team as the project develops.
• In collaboration with team members develop the scope of the project, specifications for procurement and installation of the battery project, and project timelines.
• Support the interconnection process with Otter Tail Power Company and ensure the timely delivery of materials and necessary data collection for the project demonstration to be completed.
• Support the work in collaboration with Otter Tail Power of sub-contractors participating on the project (ranging from technical consultants for electrical design to engineering for battery installation).
• Develop and maintain file management, organize data collection, and track progress towards grant deliverables, which include the technical and economic analyses of the project.
• Develop reporting materials to match timelines for grant funder and project participants.

Monitor Operations and Collect Data - 30%

• Serve as the lead on-site manager during the development of the project and into the operation phase of the project.
• Verify that all data collection systems are operating and that data is being warehoused and available for partners, faculty, and students for research purposes.
• Serve as the point of contact for equipment maintenance and equipment failures.
• Implement and oversee safety protocols.

Program Outreach - 20%

• Conduct tours to explain project and key concepts.
• Present information on the project to various groups and leaders.
• Develop communication materials in support of the project (print materials, banners, features for websites and articles).
• Support efforts of the project to connect to overall campus and community goals for carbon reduction via renewable energy projects.

Additional Responsibilities - 10%

• Other duties as assigned by the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Facilities and support the work of University sustainability goals.

Required Qualifications (8351IS):

• BA/BS degree, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four (4) years.
• Proficiency with personal computers, related hardware/software.

Preferred Qualifications (8351IS):

• At least one year of experience working in an energy-related field, preferably with solar or energy storage projects.
• Demonstrated project management skills.
• Experience collecting, organizing, and analyzing data from an energy project.
• Demonstrated communication and professional writing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a team and positively accept and integrate feedback from a supervisor.
• Experience working with diverse students and community populations.
• Must have logical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Must be able to work independently, exercise good judgment, and respond to rapidly changing demands.
• An ability and desire to continue learning on the job, including reviewing current literature and troubleshooting.
• Ability to occasionally work for extended periods in outdoor environments.
• Ability to travel occasionally for training, outreach, or research activities.
• Experience with managing projects from start to finish and report preparation.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Required Qualifications (8352IS):

• BA/BS plus at least two (2) years of related experience or a combination of education and work experience to equal six (6) years.
• Proficiency with personal computers, related hardware/software.

Preferred Qualifications (8352IS):

• At least one year of experience working in an energy-related field, preferably with solar or energy storage projects.
• Demonstrated project management skills.
• Experience collecting, organizing, and analyzing data from an energy project.
• Demonstrated communication and professional writing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a team and positively accept and integrate feedback from a supervisor.
• Experience working with diverse students and community populations.
• Must have logical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Must be able to work independently, exercise good judgment, and respond to rapidly changing demands.
• An ability and desire to continue learning on the job, including reviewing current literature and troubleshooting.
• Ability to occasionally work for extended periods in outdoor environments.
• Ability to travel occasionally for training, outreach, or research activities.
• Experience with managing projects from start to finish and report preparation.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Nestled on a 121-year-old campus in west central Minnesota, the University of Minnesota Morris stands out as one of the nation's top public liberal arts colleges. Our intimate, close-knit community fosters meaningful faculty-student collaborations in research, study abroad, and community-engaged learning. Located 150 miles west of the Twin Cities, situated amid the tall grass prairies of Minnesota, our campus also has advanced sustainable, environmentally friendly initiatives that are nationally recognized, and touch nearly all aspects of campus life. Discover more about us here!

Pay Range: For (8351IS) $23.30 - $26.44 per hour. For (8352IS) $25.14 - $32.92 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota Morris (UMN Morris)

The University of Minnesota Morris (UMN Morris) makes its home on a 121-year-old campus on the western edge of the state and is one of the top public liberal arts colleges in the nation. The small, close-knit campus emphasizes faculty/student collaboration in research, study abroad, and community engaged learning. Deeply rooted in the tall grass prairies of Minnesota, the campus also has advanced sustainable, environmentally friendly initiatives that have grown to levels of national leadership and touch nearly all aspects of campus life.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).