BUILD Workforce Trainee - SolarCHILL

PROGRAM DETAILS
Duration: Approximately 4 months
Hours: Up to 40 hours per week
Pay Rate: $18 per hour
Incentives: Tools and gear hiring bonus, power tools bonus, and opportunities to earn industry-recognized certificates in solar, electrical, and HVAC fundamentals
Training Components: Includes classroom instruction, on-the-job learning, safety certification, mentorship, and career navigation support
Location: Construction, solar, and HVAC training sites throughout Lake County

POSITION OVERVIEW

The BUILD Workforce Trainee – SolarCHILL position is part of North Coast Opportunities’ (NCO) BUILD Program (Build Up Individuals and Local Development). This position provides hands-on experience and workforce training for individuals motivated to begin a career in the solar or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) trades. Participants will work under direct supervision at approved BUILD education, training, and construction sites throughout Lake County. This position supports the program’s mission to provide paid, practical training that strengthens professional skills, supports community climate resilience, and connects participants with long-term employment opportunities. An employee hired into this position performs under direct supervision of the assigned supervisor. Primary duties may include office, clerical, professional, or manual labor tasks consistent with the employee’s training assignments and program objectives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Receive comprehensive training to develop knowledge and skills in the installation, operation, and maintenance of solar and HVAC systems alongside experienced industry professionals.
• Gain paid, on-the-job experience through hands-on installation and service of solar HVAC systems in collaboration with contracted solar and HVAC partners.
• Participate in weekly workforce training that includes safety practices, tool handling, mentorship, workshops, goal setting, and professional development to build both technical and soft skills.
• Participate with individualized career navigation services, including job matching, résumé and interview preparation, and goal planning for employment in the solar, HVAC, or related clean-energy trades.
• Perform entry-level construction, maintenance, and site support duties under supervision.
• Safely operate hand and power tools; assist with material handling, site cleanup, and light repairs.
• Support site preparation, basic carpentry, painting, and other tasks as directed.
• Follow safety procedures and wear appropriate protective gear at all times.
• Participate in on-the-job learning designed to develop practical trade skills.
• Maintain accurate records of assigned work hours, training activities, and job progress.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, team members, and partners in a respectful and professional manner.
• Represent NCO and the BUILD Program positively in all community interactions.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding work information.
• Perform clerical or logistical duties related to project documentation as assigned.
• Participate in outreach events to promote the program.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Additional specific duties for position as hired (including, but not limited to):

• Work under the supervision of the Project Coordinator and Training Contractor at approved NCO education and construction sites to learn construction skills, perform construction job duties and rehabilitate properties.

ESSENTIAL WORK HABITS

• Align behavior and performance with NCO’s Purpose, Vision, and Values.
• Report to work on time and obtain prior approval for schedule changes or absences.
• Follow NCO’s Injury, Illness, and Prevention Plan, and adhere to all safety protocols.
• Exhibit reliability, adaptability, and a positive attitude toward learning and teamwork.
• Treat co-workers, participants, and community members with respect.
• Maintain focus, complete assigned tasks efficiently, and take pride in quality work.
• Dress appropriately for fieldwork, training, or office assignments.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training and Experience:

• A high school diploma or equivalent is recommended.
• No prior construction experience required — training is provided.
• Completion of BUILD’s Fundamental Construction program is preferred.

Knowledge of:

• Basic safety practices and teamwork principles.
• General workplace communication and problem-solving.
• Standard tools and materials used in construction preferred (training provided).

Ability to:

• Learn and safely operate hand and power tools.
• Follow instructions and work under supervision.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully in English (verbal and written).
• Demonstrate reliability, initiative, and willingness to learn new skills.
• Work well independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Necessary Special Skills & Requirements:

• For work-related driving, must have a valid California driver’s license, a good driving record, and access to a vehicle with proof of insurance or reliable transportation with insurance coverage.
• Ability to travel to various work and training sites within Lake County.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Regularly required to talk, listen, stand, walk, and perform manual tasks related to construction, electrical, solar, and HVAC system installation and maintenance.
• Frequent bending, kneeling, climbing, lifting (up to 25 lbs regularly and up to 50 lbs occasionally), and operation of hand and power tools, meters, gauges, ladders, and testing equipment used in electrical, solar, and HVAC work.
• Work may occur both indoors and outdoors at project sites, including residential locations, rooftops, and mechanical rooms, in varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Tasks may require working in confined spaces, attics, or crawl areas; standing or crouching for extended periods; and safely handling wiring, conduit, piping, ducting, and solar mounting systems.
• Must adhere to all safety practices, including electrical lockout/tagout procedures, ladder and fall protection requirements, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, hard hats, and harnesses.
• May occasionally operate vehicles or transport materials and equipment between job sites within Lake County.
• Visual acuity and manual dexterity are required for precise work with tools, wiring, HVAC components, and solar connections.
• Regular exposure to moderate noise levels, dust, heat, and outdoor elements consistent with construction and electrical environments.

Note: This class specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the core essential functions and requirements of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Any essential function or requirement of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)or California FEHA. Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant when possible.