Senior Program Manager, Clean Energy Hub (NYC)

ABOUT US

West Harlem Environmental Action a/k/a WE ACT for Environmental Justice is a non-profit, community-based advocacy organization that works to build healthy communities by ensuring that people of color and/or low-income residents participate meaningfully in the creation of sound and fair environmental health and protection policies and practices. WE ACT is a nationally recognized leader in the environmental justice (EJ) movement and is known for its work in the areas of children’s environmental health; government accountability; and climate, energy and environmental justice.

WE ACT is the only national EJ organization with a permanent presence in Washington, DC. Our federal policy strategy includes advancing and reforming new national policy, practices and regulations; supporting policy implementation and regulatory efforts of existing policy to ensure accountability; convening coalitions, organizations and researchers to drive a shared national EJ agenda.

WE ACT prioritizes the voices of longstanding community members, communities of color, lower-income communities and, most importantly, those who have been historically marginalized and subjected to environmental and other forms of racism and exclusion. In accordance with the Jemez Principles, we believe that communities must speak for themselves. We work at the intersection of community engagement and activation, policy, research and education. WE ACT leverages our place at the table to push system actors, including elected officials, Big Greens, coalitions and allies to center racial justice and equity.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Program Manager to lead the operations and community engagement initiatives of the Manhattan Clean Energy Hub. This managerial role will involve oversight of program implementation, partner relationships, and a broad community engagement strategy, all while ensuring grant objectives and milestones are met in a timely and effective manner. The position requires a leader who can manage both the administrative and strategic aspects of this program and support the community’s access to clean energy resources.

Key Responsibilities

Program Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact with NYSERDA and ensure compliance with all program deliverables, reporting, and performance milestones.
• Lead strategic planning and execution of Hub services, outreach campaigns, and program initiatives across Manhattan.
• Manage a network of partners, contracts, and programmatic requirements.
• Lead the Hub’s Community Campaign to raise awareness about clean energy solutions and benefits for underserved communities.
• Manage and direct the Clean Energy Hub Team at WE ACT.
• Oversee the organization and management of program data, ensuring accurate record- keeping and reporting.
• Track campaign outcomes, budgets, and milestones; ensure timely submission of required financial and progress reports.
• Oversee data collection and KPI tracking for impact evaluation and program improvement.
• Collaborate with WE ACT’s policy and communications team to amplify success stories and inform advocacy efforts.
• Provide strategic leadership and contribute to the long-term development and growth of the Manhattan Clean Energy Hub, identifying opportunities for improvement and expanding the program’s reach.

Engagement & Outreach

• Coordinate the implementation of local pilot projects that demonstrate innovative clean energy models and community co-benefits.
• Develop and implement community engagement strategies in alignment with the goals of the Manhattan Clean Energy Hub, ensuring that outreach efforts are inclusive and accessible to historically underserved communities.
• Represent the Clean Energy Hub at public events, community board meetings, and local coalitions to build visibility and trust.
• Inform the development of culturally relevant educational materials and resources in partnership with local stakeholders.

Capacity Building

• Oversee a network of partners, ensuring effective collaboration, coordination, and adherence to programmatic goals. Lead internal meetings, facilitate communication across team members, and ensure that administrative support is provided to all staff.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with community organizations, job training providers, and clean energy partners.
• As needed, support onboarding, training, and capacity development for partners to help scale impact and strengthen the local energy equity ecosystem.

ABOUT YOU

The ideal candidate brings a deep commitment to environmental justice and experience working with frontline communities to advance equity in clean energy and climate resilience.

Required Qualifications:

• 4–6 years of experience in program management, community engagement, or
• energy/climate justice work.
• Demonstrated ability to lead community-centered campaigns, manage cross-sector partnerships, and deliver on grant obligations.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; able to engage diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and CRM/database tools.
• Proven ability to manage complex programs, track milestones, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with contract requirements.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to coordinate teams, set priorities, and manage timelines

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Spanish or other languages spoken throughout Manhattan.
• Experience working with environmental, housing, or energy efficiency programs.
• Familiarity with NYSERDA’s programs and initiatives, including the Regional Clean Energy Hubs, and a deep understanding of the state’s climate goals.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

WE ACT is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, women, persons with disabilities and LGBTQ communities. We are committed to transparent and equitable recruitment, hiring and promotion processes that foster inclusion and belonging. If you’ve read this job description, are excited by it and can see yourself in this role, we hope you apply. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please email Shanell Reyes at Shanell.Reyes@weact.org.