Location
Santa Clara, CA | United States
Job description
Energy Conservation Specialist
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Energy Conservation Specialist
Salary
$78,246.00 - $100,037.52 Annually
Location
Santa Clara, CA
Job Type
Full-Time
Job Number
79-23-446
Department
Electric Utility
Opening Date
10/17/2023
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit
8
Weighting Plan
Qualifying Performance, 100% Oral
Description
Benefits
Questions
Description
The Department:
Since 1896, Silicon Valley Power (SVP) has provided electricity for residents and businesses in Santa Clara. The Electric Department has a budgeted staff of 198 employees who provide such diverse services as operating, maintaining and dispatching electric service, engineering, system planning, administrative and financial management, marketing, customer service, energy programs, power trading, outdoor Wi-Fi services and dark fiber leasing services, all of which work together to make SVP successful for the City and its residents. For more information about Silicon Valley Power, please visit the departmentwebsite ( .
The Position:
The Energy Conservation Specialist is a customer-facing position responsible for educating customers in areas of energy efficiency and conservation, renewable energy, building and transportation electrification and other utility programs. This includes developing and delivering presentations to community members of all ages, answering questions and providing program assistance, processing rebate applications, tracking and reporting program performance data, performing in-home energy audits and equipment inspections to verify compliance with program rules and acting as the primary point of contact for residential electric customers in all aspects as it relates to utility programs. [MM1]
This is a position in the classified service assigned to work in the Electric Utility Department. The incumbent is responsible for assisting in the planning, development, modification, implementation, and coordination of energy conservation and customer service programs for the City of Santa Clara Electric Utility, including existing programs such as the City’s Energy Audit Service and Energy Conservation Hotline. The incumbent will be expected to exercise independent judgment and be able to communicate effectively, orally or in writing.
THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS. ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW.
To be considered for this position: Submit a 1) Complete online City application, 2) Current resume, and (3) Cover Letter. Incomplete applications will be disqualified. This recruitment is open until filled and the first review of applications will be on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.
Typical Duties
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Under general direction, assists in the planning, promotion, implementation and coordination of Electric Department energy conservation and services programs
Develops and disseminates conservation and services information suitable for distribution to the public
Coordinates support services to produce conservation and services materials
Sets up displays or workshops, classes and conservation presentations
Speaks to groups and conducts workshops
Performs residential energy audits and verification inspections
Determines the cost-effectiveness of various energy conservation programs and techniques for the customer and the utility
Prepares written reports to customers, including technical reports concerning the use of energy
Answers customer conservation and service related questions
Uses computer programs to analyze and present information to staff and customers
Acts as liaison with community organizations
May install or provide advice in the installation of energy-saving devices
Develops programs for Public Power Week and other special events
Performs other related duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Completion of 60 semester units of college
One (1) year of experience working in energy related fields and with the general public.
Desirable Qualifications:
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
Possession of an appropriate, valid Class C California driver's license is required at the time of appointment and for the duration of employment.
A certificate of completion of energy auditing, energy management, resource conservation, or communications courses is desirable.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
May be expected to work evenings and weekends as required.
Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, move large appliances short distances, and climb ladders to inspect attic spaces for certain programs.
Must be computer literate and tested for computer literacy.
Candidates must attain a passing score on each phase of the examination process to qualify for the Eligible List. A department interview will be required prior to appointment.
Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.
VETERAN’S PREFERENCE POINTS: This position qualifies for Veteran’s Preference Points. Applicants who have separated from service (Active Duty Status) must submit proof of honorable discharge (Form DD214) with their application at time of filing or will be ineligible to have points added to their final score.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of
Principles and practices of energy conservation and Demand-side management, including the use of common utility benefit/cost ration tests
General building construction and components; heating and cooling systems used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings; customer motivation and marketing
Proficiency with Windows-based word processing, spreadsheet, web browser and presentation programs
Office safety practices, procedures, and standards
Ability to:
Follow oral and written instructions
Organize and control records and files
Speak on a one-to-one basis and in front of groups of various sizes
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
Write, organize and effectively present informational material for public distribution using common computer applications
Work tactfully with the public and co-workers
Establish and maintain a cooperative working relationship with those contacted in the course of work, including the general public
Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals
Walk or stand for extended periods of time
Bend, stoop, reach, carry, crawl, climb and lift as necessary to perform assigned duties
Lift up to 50 pounds of static weight, with or without assistance
Effectively handle multiple priorities, organize workload and meet strict deadlines
Additional Information:
You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Complete online City Application, 2) Resume, and 3) Cover Letter. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at . This position is continuous or open until filled: Applications will be reviewed on a bi-weekly basis for consideration to the position. If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.
The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or [email protected] .
City of Santa Clara Benefit Summary Overview for Bargaining Unit #5, 7, & 8
Employees Association
This summary provides a brief overview of the City of Santa Clara's benefits available to Bargaining Unit #5, 7, & 8 employees in 2024. In the event of any conflict between the information in this summary and the applicable official plan documents, City Manager's Directives (CMDs), Personnel and Salary Resolution, or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the applicable official plan documents, CMDs, Personnel and Salary Resolution, or MOU will prevail over this summary. Benefits are subject to change.
Retirement:
Membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)
Classic Employees: 2.7% @ age 55 formula – employee pays 8.00% of gross pay, minus $61 bi-weekly
New Employees: 2.0% @ age 62 formula – employee pays 7.00% of gross pay
Medicare and Social Security (FICA)
Employee pays 6.20% up to $10,397.40 (Social Security) and 1.45% (Medicare) of gross pay
Health Insurance:
City contribution up to 90% of the Kaiser Family premium per month, based on enrollment in a CalPERS health plan
Employees electing health coverage with premiums above the City health contribution will pay additional premium costs from salary on a pre-tax basis
The City’s contribution is prorated based on scheduled hours for part time employees
Coverage is effective as early as the first day of the month after date of hire
If an employee enrolls in a plan with a monthly premium that is less than $946.86, they will be paid the difference in cash
Employees hired on or after 1/1/2022 who opt-out of City-offered health insurance and provide annual attestation and acceptable proof of alternative required coverage for themselves and their tax family, if applicable, are eligible for a cash-in-lieu amount of $250/month. Contact Human Resources for more details
Dental Insurance:
Choice of two Delta Dental plans; enrollment is mandatory
City pays lowest cost employee only plan; additional cost is paid by employee
Coverage is effective as early as the first day of the month after date of hire
Vision Insurance:
Choice of two VSP plans
City pays lowest cost employee only plan; additional cost is paid by employee
Coverage is effective as early as the first day of the month after date of hire
Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA):
City contributes $50.00 a month toward employee's VEBA account
Account funds may be used to pay for qualified medical expenses after separation from the City and after age 50 (pre-tax)
Life Insurance:
City pays for $15,000 of Basic Life Insurance coverage
Coverage is effective the first of the month after one calendar month of employment
Additional optional insurance may be purchased by the employee for the employee, spouse, domestic partner, and/or dependent children
State Disability Insurance (SDI):
Employee pays 1.1% of gross pay (includes Paid Family Leave)
7 day waiting period. Weekly paid leave for absences due to non-work related injuries/illnesses. Benefit is based on past earnings. Refer to edd.ca.gov for more information
Paid Family Leave (PFL):
Up to 8 weeks of benefits within a 12-month period to care for a family member or to bond with a new child
No waiting period. Weekly paid leave benefit. Benefit is based on past earnings. Refer to edd.ca.gov for more information
Long Term Disability (LTD) Insurance:
Benefit is 2/3 of basic wage up to $7,500; max of $5,000/month
City pays $.558/$100 of insured earnings
30 calendar day waiting period
Coverage is effective the first of the month after one calendar month of employment
Deferred Compensation:
Voluntary plan through Nationwide Retirement Solutions
Employee may contribute up to the lesser of the IRS maximum or 100% of gross compensation into a pre-tax 457(b) account or a post-tax Roth 457(b) account (or a combination of the two accounts) subject to IRS rules
Flexible Spending Account (IRS Section 125 Plan):
Employee may contribute up to $3,200 per year in pre-tax dollars to a health care spending account
Employee may contribute up to $5,000 per year in pre-tax dollars to a dependent care spending account
Employee may contribute up to $315 per month in pre-tax dollars to a commuter benefit plan
Vacation:
Vacation is accrued bi-weekly, cannot use vacation during first 6 months of City service
For 1 - 4 years of service: 10 days (80 hours)/year
For 5 - 9 years of service: 15 days (120 hours)/year
For 10 - 15 years of service: 21 days (168 hours)/year
For 16 - 20 years of service: 22 days (176 hours)/year
For 21+ years of service: 24 days (192 hours)/year
Maximum vacation accrual is 450 hours
Once per year, employees can elect to convert up to 40 hours of accrued vacation to cash to be paid out the following calendar year
Sick Leave:
Sick leave is accrued bi-weekly for equivalent of 96 hours per calendar year with no maximum accrual
Up to 48 hours/year of accumulated sick leave may be used for family illness
Up to 40 hours/year of accumulated sick leave may be used for personal leave
Employee may convert sick leave to vacation once per calendar year (annual maximum conversion is 96 hours sick to 48 hours vacation)
Partial sick leave payoff provision on retirement depending on years of service
Non-Management Leave:
24 hours of non-management leave credited to employees each January 1st
New employees hired between January 1st and June 30th receive 24 hours of non-management leave their first year
New employees hired between July 1st and December 31st receive 12 hours of non-management leave their first year
Unused non-management leave may not be carried over from one calendar year to the next
Compensatory Time Off (CTO):
Employees may accrue CTO in lieu of overtime hours (maximum accrual is set by department)
16 hours of CTO is credited to employees each January 1st (prorated if hired after January 1st)
Holidays:
Reimbursements/Allowances (for specific classifications):
Raingear: Up to $120 per fiscal year for eligible classifications
Safety Boots: Upt to $237 per fiscal year for eligible employees
Walking Shoes: Up to $120 per fiscal year for eligible classifications (See MOU for details)
Tools: $500 per fiscal year reimbursement for Auto Foreperson classification
Phone allowance of $80/month for Senior Key Customer Representative(s) and Key Customer Representative(s) job classifications
Bilingual Pay:
Night Differential Pay:
Librarians and library support employees whose regular assignments are to City libraries are eligible for 5.0% night differential pay for all hours worked between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. so long as they work a minimum of 2 consecutive hours between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m.
All other employees are eligible for 5.0% night differential pay for all hours worked between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. so long as they work a minimum of 2 consecutive hours between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Standby Pay:
Tuition Reimbursement Program:
Employee Assistance Program:
Confidential counseling to employees and dependents. Up to maximum of five (5) consultations per family member per incident per year
City paid benefit
Retiree Medical Reimbursement Program:
Employees who retire from the City with at least ten (10) years of service shall receive reimbursement to help cover retiree single health insurance premiums. The reimbursement maximum includes the PEMHCA minimum.
Up to age 65, retirees are eligible for reimbursement up to $416/month in 2024 (amount adjusted annually)
After age 65, retirees are eligible for reimbursement up to $249/month in 2024 (amount adjusted annually)
01
Select how you meet the education requirement.
I possess at least 60 semester units of college credit.
I possess a Bachelor's degree and have major course work in engineering, environmental studies, business administration, public administration, communications, or a closely related field.
I do not possess 60 semester units of college credit.
02
Select how you meet the minimum qualifications with your experience.
I have one (1) year of experience working in energy related fields and with the general public.
I do not possess the minimum qualifications.
03
Describe your one (1) year if experience working in energy related fields and with the general public. State how many hours you worked in a week.
04
Why do you feel people do not save more energy at home and what are the best strategies for overcoming these barriers? If selected for this position, please describe how you would incorporate these strategies into utility programs and education or outreach efforts.
05
Briefly describe the type and length of your experience in the following areas of energy efficiency, building electrification and conservation outreach programs. • Home Energy Audits • Program Implementation • Development of New Products, Services or Delivery Methods • Public Presentations • Communication with Customers and Industry Peers
Required Question
Agency
City of Santa Clara
Address
1500 Warburton Ave.
Santa Clara, California, 95050
Phone
408-615-2080
Website
Please verify your email address Verify Email
Job tags
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