How to apply for Operations and Systems Specialist

About Sunkeeper Solar

Sunkeeper Solar is at the forefront of the urban solar revolution, developing innovative systems that directly reduce fossil fuel consumption in cities. Joining this team means being part of a mission-driven company where your operational expertise directly contributes to a sustainable future. The fast-paced, small-to-medium business environment offers the chance to wear multiple hats and make a tangible impact daily.

About the role

As the Operations and Systems Specialist, you will be the backbone of Sunkeeper Solar's day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth HR, benefits, compliance, and IT systems. Your work will directly support project execution and process efficiency, with a focus on integrating AI tools to streamline workflows. This role is critical for scaling the company's impact while maintaining operational excellence.

A typical day

A typical day might start with monitoring network security alerts and managing Google Workspace user permissions, then shift to reviewing vendor contracts or preparing for an insurance audit. You'd likely spend time assisting HR with benefits administration and supporting project managers with lien waivers, all while identifying opportunities to automate repetitive tasks with AI tools. The role is dynamic, requiring you to switch between IT, operations, and compliance seamlessly.

Who Sunkeeper Solar is looking for

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree with 1+ years of operations/systems experience, ideally in a small to medium construction business where you've handled multiple responsibilities.
• Hands-on Google Workspace admin experience (user management, security settings, and app deployment) and a working knowledge of network/endpoint security best practices.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized, with a positive attitude and a strong desire to work collaboratively in-person.
• Comfortable with ambiguity and proactive in identifying process improvements, including leveraging AI tools to reduce manual work.

Tips for this application

• Tailor your resume to highlight specific examples of Google Workspace administration, vendor management, and compliance tasks, using metrics where possible.
• In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience in small construction businesses to Sunkeeper Solar's need for a versatile operator who can handle both HR and IT.
• Showcase any experience with AI tools or process automation, as this is a key focus of the role.
• Mention your comfort with in-person work and your ability to thrive in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
• Before applying, research Sunkeeper Solar's projects and mention something specific about their urban solar initiatives in your application.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Emphasize your hands-on experience with Google Workspace administration and your ability to manage IT systems end-to-end.', 'Highlight your experience in small construction businesses, demonstrating your ability to juggle multiple operational tasks (HR, compliance, vendor management) simultaneously.', "Express enthusiasm for the company's mission and your interest in contributing to reducing fossil fuel consumption.", 'Showcase your detail-oriented nature and your proactive approach to improving processes, especially with AI tools.']

Research before applying

• Look into Sunkeeper Solar's specific projects and partnerships in urban areas to understand their market focus.
• Research the latest trends in solar energy policy and incentives in the USA, as this may affect operations and compliance.
• Familiarize yourself with common construction industry regulations and lien waiver processes, as these are mentioned in the job description.
• Explore how AI tools are being used in operations and HR to show you can bring innovative ideas to the role.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Describe a time you managed a vendor relationship or conducted an insurance audit. What challenges did you face?
• How would you handle a Google Workspace security issue, such as a phishing attempt or data breach?
• Walk us through a process improvement you initiated. What was the outcome?
• How do you prioritize tasks when managing both HR and IT responsibilities? Give an example from your past experience.
• Why are you interested in working for a solar company, and how do you align with our mission?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Don't submit a generic resume that doesn't highlight relevant operations/IT experience or construction industry background.
• Avoid overlooking the in-person requirement—if you're not local or willing to relocate, don't apply; they clearly want in-person collaboration.
• Don't underestimate the importance of Google Workspace administration; if you lack this, get basic training before applying and mention it in your cover letter.