- Green Builder® Coalition Unveils Green Building Administrator Software
- Steve Hale & Chad Ray Added to Green Builder® Coalition Board
- Green Builder® Coalition Now Accepting Donations
- Impact Series
- As I Am… Sara Gutterman
- Job Opportunities
- Train of Thought
Activities
Green Builder® Coalition Unveils Green Building Administrator Software
The Green Builder® Coalition is proud to announce the launch of our inaugural software product, The Green Building Administrator (GBA; www.TheGBA.org). It is an online tool by which both users and Coalition members can compare and decide which green building program best fits their sustainable goals and their projects’ requirements.
The GBA has different levels of access, based on two user groups: the general public and Green Builder® Coalition members. Free of charge, our public users will be able to compare two green building programs at one time and will have access to limited content describing the selected programs. (A brief registration is required for free use.) Coalition members will have the ability to compare three programs simultaneously and view more extensive content and descriptions of the compared programs.
The current green building programs within the Green Building Administrator are: Energy Star Version 3 (EPA/DOE), LEED for Homes (USGBC), and the National Green Building Standard (NAHB).
The Green Builder® Coalition is also interested in incorporating national model codes, other green building programs and additional features that our Coalition members would like us to consider. Please send an email to tech@greenbuildercoalition.org to begin the process of evaluation. We will periodically update our Technical Assistance page to alert our visitors as to which programs or features are under consideration and their approximate timeframe to launch.
Steve Hale & Chad Ray Added to Green Builder® Coalition Board
Steve Hale, Director of Build Green New Mexico, and Chad Ray, Homebuilder from Zebulon, North Carolina, have been elected to the Green Builder® Coalition Board of Directors.
“I am looking forward to working with both of these passionate and knowledgeable gentlemen. The skill sets they bring to our Board will only help us as we look to grow both our membership and the organization,” said Executive Director Mike Collignon.
Ray (left) appreciated the nomination and said it was “an honor to serve.” Hale (right) stated, “I am looking forward to the opportunity.” Both gentlemen possess a wealth of knowledge and experience, both in the field and within other industry associations.
Their term on the Board began in October, and will run for three years.
Green Builder® Coalition Now Accepting Donations
When the Green Builder® Coalition was founded, the first decision ever made was to restrict membership to individuals only. We wanted to represent the small business owner/sole proprietor, as well as other passionate individuals, who did not have an influential voice within the larger, more established organizations.
This decision was not made casually. We knew this would limit our revenue opportunities, as we would not avail ourselves to corporate funding. However, we were resolute in our quest to provide a home for those individuals whose personal values might differ from those of their employer, or organizations of which they may or may not be members.
As we approach the end of the year, some people or businesses may be looking to reduce their tax burden by making donations. While not a charitable organization, the Green Builder® Coalition is a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(6) advocacy/trade association that is actively engaged in lobbying federal, state and local governments on behalf of the green building community. Amounts paid to the Coalition are not deductible as charitable contributions, but may be deductible as an ordinary and necessary business expense, subject to exclusion for lobbying activity. In 2012, no portion of our members’ dues was used for lobbying. Therefore, 100% of any dues payment may be deductible as an ordinary and necessary business expense. It is important to check with your accountant, lawyer or tax professional to seek specific advice. Green Builder® Coalition does not provide legal or accounting advice.
We also recognize there may be individuals who feel it too risky to take a public stance against those entities described above, or are simply uncomfortable doing so. By creating a donation form, we are able to provide an avenue for people to support our efforts while shielding those actions from professional ramification.
If you, or someone you know, would like to financially support our efforts, please click here to contribute. We thank you for your generosity.
Impact Series
Two recent Impact Series webinars featured thought-provoking guests who are clearly big thinkers.
In early December, Gus Speth, Professor of Law at the Vermont Law School and Distinguished Senior Fellow at both Demos and the United Nations Foundation, spoke about the emerging green economy and the need for transformative change in America. He covered a lot of topics surrounding building a sustainable future, which can also be found in his new book, “America the Possible.”
One week later, Robin Chase (pictured) gave us a glimpse into the Sharing Economy, in which participants use the web to sell, rent, or swap everything from cars to baby clothes to remodeling services. She is the Founder of ride sharing services Zipcar and Buzzcar.
In case you missed either of these free webinars, you can view them at your convenience. To do so, please visit the Impact Series archive, found here.
As I Am…
Sara Gutterman
Each issue, we’ll sit down with a green building professional to gain a personal insight into their motivations, inspirations and experiences. This issue, we feature Sara Gutterman, CEO of Green Builder® Media.
The Torch: What motivated you to enter the sustainability industry?
Sara Gutterman: I grew up playing in the Colorado Rockies. It’s impossible not to develop a deeply entrenched love and respect for nature after enjoying it so immensely and watching the impact of human development. My commitment to healing the planet was solidified at an early age and first manifested itself in my career when I was in venture capital investing in organic foods and natural retail companies.
TT: Describe your first green project. Did you encounter any hurdles on that first project? (If yes, how did you overcome them?)
SG: My first green project was an investment in Horizon Organic Dairy, founded by Barney Feinblum (former co-founder of Celestial Seasonings). I learned from the team at Horizon how to create a company that is simultaneously sustainable and profitable, as well as authentic with their green consumer products. It takes a colossal effort to transform a market, so there were many hurdles along the way, all of which were surmountable with just a little creative thinking.
TT: What building product or technique do you think will be the next “game changer”?
SG: Performance metrics (like HERS ratings) will be the next game changer for the residential market. By requiring a miles-per-gallon-like sticker on every home, it will change the way we think about design, construction, performance, product selection and occupant behavior.
I’m also paying attention to advanced connectivity technology that enables products to communicate with each other (such as windows that can ‘talk’ with HVAC systems when the weather changes to program heating or cooling automatically).
TT: Who inspires you the most?
SG: Mother Nature.
TT: If you had it to do over again, what profession would you choose?
SG: I chose this time around, so I wouldn’t change a thing!
TT: What do you enjoy the most when you’re not at work?
SG: Morning yoga and afternoon runs in the rainforest.
TT: What’s the most important piece of advice you’d like to pass along to others?
SG: Dreams aren’t free, but they make life worth living.
Job Opportunities
Below you will find job postings for green collar jobs around the country.
If you have a job opening you’d like to list here, please contact the Green Builder® Coalition at info@greenbuildercoalition.org.
CLEAResult (www.clearesult.com), an energy-optimization firm that designs and implements programs to help utilities manage load growth by helping customers identify energy-savings opportunities and implement energy-efficiency improvements, is currently hiring energy-efficiency engineers, consultants, analysts and coordinators. These are full-time positions with full benefits. Candidates should have experience conducting energy audits, identifying energy-efficiency opportunities, using energy-modeling tools, performing energy-savings calculations, and/or developing measurement & verification (M&V) plans. P.E. and/or C.E.M. certification is preferred but not required. To view these listings, please click here.
At press time, they had 24 jobs in the following cities:
Austin, TX (11)
Corpus Christi, TX (1)
Fayetteville, AR (1)
Little Rock, AR (2)
Fairfax, VA (1)
Okemos, MI (4)
Lansing, MI (1)
Portland, OR (2)
Columbus, OH (1)
CLEAResult is an energy-optimization firm that develops and implements energy-efficiency programs on behalf of utility companies across the country. Our programs are designed to help utilities manage load growth and meet legislative requirements by identifying energy-savings opportunities and implementing energy-efficiency improvements. CLEAResult is ranked on Inc. Magazine’s list of the 500 fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. for the second year in a row.
If you are interested in any of the above job openings, please contact:
James Hatheway
Recruiter
(512) 259-2383
jhatheway@clearesult.com
Or apply via this website: www.clearesult.com
The Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance (SEEA; www.seealliance.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission of promoting and achieving energy efficiency through networking, program activities, and education. They are looking to fill the following 4 positions:
#1: Communications Manager: This person will report to the President with primary responsibility to lead and oversee SEEA’s internal and organizational marketing and communications activities, including the website/social media, newsletters and publications, branding and other public image activities such as drafting speeches and talking points. The Communications Manager will coordinate media contacts and work on communications campaigns and drive SEEA’s Associate Member program and related events. The Communications Manager also develops and adheres to the communications team budget while working with SEEA senior management to identify and secure outside funding for communications initiatives, and directs all aspects of specific marketing and communications initiatives as assigned by senior management.
A considerable degree of independent initiative will be required, especially related to managing marketing and public relations work for the BetterBuildings and DOE’s State Energy Program (SEP) city “accounts.” The candidate will also need to work effectively with team members from SEEA and other organizations, and to express complex ideas in clear, compelling written and verbal form.
A bachelor’s degree and 4 or more years of experience in communications public relations, journalism, or related field is preferred. SEEA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Salary range will be $65,000-$80,000. SEEA offers a generous benefits package and a stimulating work environment in Downtown Atlanta, convenient to public transit (MARTA) rail and bus routes.
All qualified candidates may apply by sending a cover letter, resume and writing sample to jobs@seealliance.org with the subject line: Communications Manager. No phone calls please.
#2: Finance Associate: This position will report to the Finance Manager and assist the Finance Department by providing a range of administrative services. The responsibilities include conducting invoice reconciliations, accounts payable processing, data entry and filing. The Finance Associate will be required to enter information accurately and maintain a high-level of professionalism and confidentiality. The Finance Associate will serve as a point of contact and liaison between SEEA, our vendors, and our sub-recipient cities regarding financial records, invoices, and payments.
A Bachelor’s degree or an Associate’s degree with one year of experience related to Accounts Payable/Invoice Reconciliation and Processing is required.
Salary range will be $45,000-$55,000. SEEA offers a generous benefits package and a stimulating work environment in Downtown Atlanta, convenient to public transit (MARTA) rail and bus routes.
All qualified candidates may apply by sending a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to jobs@seealliance.org with the subject line: SEEA Finance Associate. No phone calls please.
#3: Finance Manager: The successful Finance Manager candidate will report to the SEEA Controller with primary responsibility for supervising and performing general ledger activities and reconciliations in a nonprofit environment. Part of this responsibility includes supervision of the Finance Associate and any finance interns employed by SEEA. Secondary responsibilities include becoming knowledgeable of each functional area of accounting (accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and reporting) to enable the individual to provide support to the Controller as the need arises.
SEEA is looking for someone with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration, five years progressive experience within the functional areas of accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger – non-profit, government-funded organization experience a plus. The successful candidate will also demonstrate knowledge or ability to research and understand FAR, OMB A-122, and Federal Travel regulations. Excellent interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills are desired. MS Office and accounting software skills are required – Deltek COSTPOINT a plus. Experience with preparation of audit schedules and familiarity with OMB A-133 audits desired.
Salary range will be $65,000-$80,000. SEEA offers a generous benefits package and a stimulating work environment in Downtown Atlanta, convenient to public transit (MARTA) rail and bus routes.
All qualified candidates may apply by sending a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to jobs@seealliance.org with the subject line: Finance Manager. No phone calls please.
#4: Vice President of Operations: This person is a senior-level professional who will provide operations leadership across the organization. SEEA is a growing organization working to deliver upon its mission of creating energy efficiency market transformation across 11 states in the region, while also cementing an internal organizational structure for continued, long-term sustainable growth. This person will help SEEA develop appropriate organizational systems, while also providing support on a range of mission critical initiatives, like internal office leadership, vendor contracting, financial quality control, human resource management, leadership team development and fundraising.
10+ years of senior leadership experience with strategic responsibilities is required.
Salary range will be $95,000-$110,000. SEEA offers a generous benefits package and a stimulating work environment in Downtown Atlanta, convenient to public transit (MARTA) rail and bus routes.
All qualified candidates may apply by sending a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to jobs@seealliance.org with the subject line: Vice President of Operations. No phone calls please.
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization that acts as a catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies, investments, and behaviors.
They are currently looking to fill the part-time position of Administrative Assistant. They need a self-motivated and detail-oriented individual to assist with cataloging library material, maintenance of a contact database of over 60,000 names, and general office tasks.
The job is based in Washington, DC. A college degree is preferred, but they will consider proven organizational skills and experience. The pay rate is $12/hour, and they are looking to have this person work 20-27 hours per week. To view the listing, please click here: http://aceee.org/about/jobs/administrative-assistant-part-time-0
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory currently has over 75 jobs listed on their site. Please note the closing date on the position prior to applying. Most are located in their home state of Washington, though 5 of the posted positions are based in College Park, MD and one opening each is listed for Herndon, VA and Albuquerque, NM.
If you have any interest in these highly scientific roles, please visit their career site by clicking here. https://erecruit.pnnl.gov/psp/hrext/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_CE.GBL
The Institute for Market Transformation is a Washington, DC-based nonprofit organization promoting energy efficiency, green building, and environmental protection in the United States and abroad. The prevailing focus of IMT’s work is energy efficiency in buildings. Our activities include technical and market research, policy and program development, and promotion of best practices and knowledge exchange. All our work involves many collaborators and targets a broad range of stakeholders in both the public and private sectors.
They need to fill two positions: Chief Operating Officer and Program Associate. To view the complete job listings for both positions, please click here. Summaries are below. Finally, here is a letter from the outgoing COO, explaining why IMT is a great place to work.
#1: Chief Operating Officer: The Chief Operating Officer will lead the execution of IMT’s strategic plan and operations in conjunction with the Executive Director and Chief Financial and Administrative Officer.
This position requires an individual who can help others at IMT deliver measurable, cost-effective results. S/he will need to deliver both leadership and flexibility in overseeing the daily and long-term strategy of IMT. A strong interest in the environment, energy policy, and/or green buildings; a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree; and 5+ years’ experience in a relevant role are required.
This is a leadership position in a growing organization. IMT offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience as well as health, dental, retirement, and vacation
benefits.
To apply, please email resume, cover letter, writing sample, and salary requirements to jobs@imt.org. Please write “Chief Operating Officer” in the subject line.
#2: Program Associate: They are seeking a Program Associate to work on various policy and technical projects with our Program Directors and Managers. This position includes conducting research and analysis, modeling economic impacts and co-authoring documents.
An undergraduate degree in political science, economics, finance, business, or related field with 1-5 years of post-college work experience is preferred. Salary is commensurate with experience.
To apply, please email resume, cover letter, writing sample, and salary requirements to jobs@imt.org. Please write “Program Associate” in the subject line.
IMT is an equal opportunity employer.
Any listing above does not constitute an endorsement by the Green Builder® Coalition. We do not have any professional or financial stake in the preceding information. Rather, we provide this solely for the benefit of those seeking employment.
Voices
Train of Thought
2012: A Look Back
We aim to increase the level of transparency throughout the green building industry, so it would be hypocritical of us if we didn’t demand it of ourselves. Therefore, as I look back at 2012, I wanted to see what I wrote in last year’s year-end review column about our 2012 goals. I’m proud to say we did pretty well.
As the top headline of this issue states, we have launched an online software program that we feel meets a large need within the industry. The Green Building Administrator (GBA) will help anyone trying to evaluate and decide between two green building programs, or anyone who is working towards a dual certification. Our other software product will have to wait until we have a little more funding available, but I can promise you it’s just as helpful and robust as the GBA.
While we did not get our Member Directory off the ground yet, we were able to profile some of our members’ projects. The net-zero energy and water remodel project generated the most reader feedback, while the demonstration project within Epcot Center’s Innoventions was and continues to be the most widely visited home. Finally, our southern California members built a beautiful home on an infill lot that has ocean views. I know there are other projects to profile, but unlike a lot of the building industry, our members are increasingly busy, and some are even growing their businesses. Needless to say, their free time is severely limited. And, let’s not forget the regular member spotlight, “As I Am…”. I feel this provides a unique and special look into the psychology of sustainable construction.
We certainly increased our state-level advocacy in 2012. That was to be expected, though, as much of 2011 was spent focused on the International Green Construction Code (IgCC). This year, we were active in New Jersey, Utah, Arizona and Michigan. In 2013, we’ll turn our focus to Colorado and Texas, among other states.
As the calendar flips over to 2013, we are going to make a concerted effort to increase membership in the Coalition. We believe the GBA will provide our members with immense value, but we’re also very proud of the Quarterly Industry Reports we publish. Those alone are worth the price of admission.
The more we grow, the more we can accomplish, and there are so many things we’d like to provide our members, but we truly can’t do it without your support. I would strongly urge you to consider making the investment for yourself, your business, for our future environment. And, as we race towards the “fiscal cliff”, your dues might very well be tax deductible. Benefits, and holiday cheer, all around!
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