Operations Associate

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!

About Us!

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 Operations Associate plays a central role in keeping our Washington, DC office running smoothly and supporting key organizational functions. This in-office position supports general operations, development, facilities, and HR-ensuring our team and guests enjoy a well-managed, welcoming environment.

You will provide day-to-day administrative support, serve as a liaison to building management, assist with donor-related processes, and act as a back-up to HR on administrative tasks. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and enjoys creating systems that keep things running efficiently.

This position reports to the Operations Manager.

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.

Job responsibilities include:

Office Management and Operations Support (60%)

• Service as primary office contact for facilities, building management, and vendor issues
• Coordinate office logistics, including conference room setup, supply ordering, and maintaining a clean, welcoming workspace
• Greet and assist office visitors and guests; manage main phone line as needed
• Sort and route incoming mail daily; manage outgoing shipments and support staff with supply and shipping needs
• Maintain accurate inventory of branded items and office supplies
• Prepare and make bank deposits
• Track key operational deadlines and recurring tasks to ensure timely completion (e.g., lease renewals, utility payments, etc.)
• Provide administrative support for local in-person events and team meetings
• Respond to staff Operations-related requests or questions via Slack/Asana.
• Provide back-up support for HR functions

Development Support (30%)

• Enter and maintain accurate donor and grant data using Salesforce and/or other platforms
• Ensure Grant files are complete and well-organized (electronic and/or paper)
• Support donor correspondence, including preparing and mailing thank-you notes and fundraising packets
• Provide logistics and administrative support for DC-based events and meetings
• Respond to staff requests for development-related materials

Organization-wide administration (10%)

• Show up fully for learning and planning and activities, including all-staff meetings, retreats, and strategy sessions.
• Facilitate meetings, prepare agendas, and take notes.
• Coordinate and work with external consultants as needed.
• As a key member of the team, contribute to brainstorming, developing, and executing new ideas.
• Manage your own regular administration, including timely submission of timesheets, receipts, reimbursements, scheduling, travel planning, and HR paperwork.

Work environment

• Ability to 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 by car and airplane to attend or support events, workshops and staff retreats
• Daily commute to our Washington, DC office near Dupont Circle

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in office management, administrative support, or operations
• Strong attention to detail, reliability, and organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self-directed and proactive, with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Ability to work and collaborate with different teams
• Proficient in basic Microsoft Office
• Ability to work in a dynamic, action-oriented setting, including traveling for a weeklong annual retreat in the United States or Puerto Rico
• Willingness to be in the DC office daily and travel up to 1-2 times per year

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Salesforce, Every Action, or other donor CRM
• Experience with Asana, Slack, and Google Workspace
• Experience supporting HR or compliance processes
• Prior work in a nonprofit, advocacy, or mission-driven organization
• Interest in renewable energy or community organizing

We anticipate accepting applications until the first week of July, 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.

SUN welcomes candidates of diverse backgrounds and experience to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with a non-traditional education. We're an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every preferred qualification, we still encourage you to apply.

SUN is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, including those with disabilities. We will provide reasonable accommodations throughout the application, interview, hiring process, and work environment as required by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at jobs@solarunitedneighbors.org so we can make the necessary arrangements. All requests will be handled confidentially.