Operations Specialist

Location: Hybrid – 1-2 days/week onsite in our Minneapolis office or Roseville office.

About the role

The Market Transformation team accelerates and scales the development and adoption of emerging energy efficiency and decarbonization technologies across Minnesota. Operations at Market Transformation spans procurement, contracting, event planning, budget support, employee development, and the systems and processes that keep the department running efficiently.

As an Operations Specialist, you will hold primary responsibility for two core operations functions: vendor procurement and department event planning and logistics. This role is designed to take ownership of procurement execution, build efficient processes, and serve as a go-to advisor for Market Transformation managers. You will also lead planning and execution for critical internal and external events, including the ETA Forum, and contribute broadly to department operations and process improvement.

Responsibilities

• RFP/RFQ Development & Procurement Process Support
  • Maintain an in-depth understanding of CEE's procurement policies and goals, serving as a go-to advisor for Market Transformation managers.
  • Support teams in developing RFPs and RFQs, determining when to pursue an RFQ vs. RFP based on policy drivers and program needs.
  • Solicit vendor responses to ensure access to high-quality services and uphold diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.
  • Partner with Legal, Accounting, and Operations to ensure compliance with organizational and state requirements.
  • Support external vendor outreach and communication throughout the procurement process.
  • Track procurement timelines and manage vendor selection and contracting recommendations independently.
• Contract Management & Vendor Compliance
  • Ensure contracts are set up correctly and meet compliance requirements before execution.
  • Support ongoing state contract compliance audits and documentation efforts.
  • Manage invoice approvals and maintain supporting documentation for vendor payments.
  • Track vendor compliance metrics and flag issues for resolution.
• Event Planning & Logistics
  • Lead planning and execution for Market Transformation-led events, including the ETA Forum, internal retreats, and other department events.
  • Coordinate event logistics, including vendors, venues, and catering.
  • Manage event budgets and timelines in partnership with program leadership.
• Onboarding & Staff Development Support
  • Share responsibility for new staff onboarding, including training related to procurement, contracting, and operations.
  • Support department staff development activities and training sessions.
• Budget & Financial Operations
  • Help staff understand spend related to specific contracts versus budget.
  • Work with Accounting on project coding and budget allocations related to procurement activity.
• Cross-Functional Coordination & Process Improvement
  • Identify and implement improved procurement processes and tools for the Market Transformation team.
  • Other duties as assigned or apparent.

Requirements

• Industry/Functional Knowledge
  • Working knowledge of vendor procurement best practices, including RFP/RFQ development and contract lifecycle management.
  • Familiarity with state-funded contract compliance requirements, or ability to learn quickly.
  • Familiarity with nonprofit or energy sector work is helpful but not required.
• Technical & Computer Skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams), particularly document management and tracking.
  • Comfort learning and managing procurement and contract tracking systems.
  • Strong attention to detail in reviewing contracts and compliance documentation.
• Operational & Organizational Skills
  • Ability to manage multiple procurement processes and deadlines simultaneously, independently.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment in vendor and contracting decisions.
  • Excellent time management and prioritization skills.
  • Proactive and service-oriented approach to event planning, with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
  • Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment and make timely decisions based on available information.
• Communication & Collaboration
  • Genuine service orientation, approaching the role as one that exists to remove obstacles and support Market Transformation staff.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills, including with external vendors.
  • Ability to work effectively across departments, including Legal, Operations, and Accounting.
  • Professionalism and discretion when handling vendor and contract information.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2 or 4-year degree program in a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in operations, procurement, or contract administration; candidates with a background spanning both vendor/contract management and event or program logistics are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Experience with RFP/RFQ processes and vendor contract management.
• Experience coordinating events, logistics, or program support (venues, catering, vendor coordination, event execution).
• Interest in energy, sustainability, or nonprofit work a plus.
• A brief cover letter describing your interest is encouraged.

About Us

Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) is a clean energy nonprofit with offices in North Loop of Minneapolis and Roseville, MN. We provide practical energy solutions for homes, businesses, and communities to cut energy waste and harmful emissions. Recognized as one of Minnesota's top 200 workplaces by the Star Tribune, CEE is known for its open communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and commitment to work-life balance.

Benefits

• Insurance Coverage Options
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
• Future Planning
  • Retirement saving program with immediate vesting and company contribution.
• Work/Life Balance
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO).
  • Paid parental leave.
  • Salary continuation for major medical events.
• Holidays
  • Nine paid holidays each year.
• Growth
  • Professional development opportunities and education assistance.
• Championing DEI
  • Committed DEI Committee promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Pay

Dependent on qualifications and experience, the pay range for this position is $31.00 - $33.00 per hour.