Program Manager

Willdan is seeking an Energy Efficiency Program Manager in Southern California. In this role, you will be a crucial team member in leading the implementation of one or more energy-efficiency programs.

The Program Manager will work closely with Willdan leadership to design, plan, and execute initiatives aimed at reducing energy consumption, optimizing resources, promoting sustainable practices, and serving under-resourced communities. Your responsibilities will include leading program implementation, reporting, budgeting, coordination, client and stakeholder engagement, and data analysis while monitoring program effectiveness and delegating to subject matter experts and program staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage one or more energy-efficient programs.
• Provide subject matter expertise in public sector energy project procurement.
• Collaborate with Willdan leadership to establish program goals, timelines, and budgets.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and continuous learning.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), QA/QC protocols, and continuous improvement processes for all program areas.
• Provide guidance and support to program staff, interns, and all involved in energy efficiency initiatives.
• Manage program staff and delegate to subject matter experts.
• Assist in hiring and staff training.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external vendors, and stakeholders to support program execution.
• Conduct research to identify emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in energy efficiency.
• Support development and deployment of customer and contractor-facing tools, portals, and databases to improve program experience and tracking.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and dashboards to communicate program outcomes and progress to management, stakeholders, and the client(s).
• Foster positive relationships with key stakeholders, including state agencies, utility providers, Regional Energy Networks, industry partners, and community organizations.
• Engage with stakeholders to identify opportunities for collaboration, funding, and resource sharing.
• Integrate equity-focused approaches into program design and implementation.
• Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and industry events related to energy efficiency initiatives.
• Identify areas for improvement and recommend strategies to enhance program efficiency and effectiveness.
• Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned by the supervisor as business needs dictate.

Job Requirements / Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive and relevant experience leading cross-functional teams in the energy, local government, or consulting sectors with a bachelor’s degree preferred. 
• A master’s degree in a related field, with direct experience in energy efficiency, is a plus.
• Previous experience leading the implementation of a resource acquisition, market support, or equity program for a California energy efficiency Program Administrator.
• Knowledge of California Regional Energy Networks, Investor-Owned Utilities, and Community Choice Aggregators as Energy Efficiency Program Administrators.
• Knowledge of energy efficiency regulations, policies, and standards at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Experience supporting or leading local government procurement using California Government Code 4217, Public Contract Code 3400, Job Order Contracting, Piggyback Contracting, and the California Uniform Public Contracting Cost Accounting Act.
• Knowledge of local government, K12, state, and federal fiscal and procurement compliance principles.
• Demonstrated experience managing and reporting on programmatic budgets.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data to drive decision-making and program optimization.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, relationship management, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, data analysis tools, and project management software.