Associate Program Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tri-State Light & Energy (TSLE) is an energy efficiency consulting and implementation contracting firm with a 40-year history in customer service and energy cost saving delivery. TSLE is a Minority Based Enterprise (MBE) for multiple states and has a major focus on providing support for DEI and Diversity initiatives. Regionally, TSLE delivers Direct Install Programs, Engineered Solutions Programs, Energy Savings Improvement Programs, and Engineering Services for Municipal, Commercial and Industrial Clients. TSLE is consistently recognized and awarded for being a small business champion that marries innovative technology with small company personalization and service. We are growing and looking to hire dedicated, industry-qualified candidates at all experience levels to grow with our company.

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Associate Program Manager to join our team in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The Associate Program Manager will oversee the development, implementation, and management of utility-sponsored energy efficiency programs across New Jersey. This role supports compliance with the NJ Clean Energy Act and Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) mandates, delivering cost-effective savings through commercial, industrial, multifamily initiatives. The ideal candidate brings experience in utility program management, regulatory compliance, stakeholder engagement, and energy engineering or project management.

Program Delivery & Operations

Support daily operations of one or more utility energy efficiency programs (e.g., Direct Install, C&I Custom/Prescriptive, Multifamily, etc.).

Oversee project pipeline management, incentive processing, QA/QC, and contractor performance.

Ensure delivery of savings targets (kWh, therms), budgets, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Regulatory & Compliance

Ensure programs comply with NJBPU rules, utility-specific filings, and energy efficiency framework requirements.

Manage reporting and data tracking for cost-effectiveness tests (TRC), technical reference manuals (TRMs), and utility filings.

Stakeholder Engagement

Support communications between the utility, implementation contractors, trade allies, and customer base.

Present program updates, forecasts, and results to utility partners and regulatory bodies as required.

Coordinate with Marketing, Outreach, and Customer Experience teams to optimize program uptake.

Process Improvement

Identify opportunities for program improvements, cost-efficiency, and market responsiveness.

Incorporate customer and contractor feedback into program refinements.

Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Energy). Other engineering disciplines will be considered.

Demonstrated interest in energy efficiency is must.

A minimum of 1 year of relevant engineering or fieldwork experience required; 2 to 5 years are preferred.

Must reside in New Jersey.

Strong project management skills with the ability to set priorities, collect and document project requirements, successfully handle multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Ability to maintain and operate personal and/or company vehicles with a valid driver's license.

Must be willing and able to travel within the tri-state area; some overnight travel may be required.

Exceptional communication, organizational, time-management, and planning skills.

Strong customer service capability focusing on proactively identifying customer needs and managing customer expectations.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Self-starter who can work independently or within a team environment.

Basic software development knowledge

Proficient in using Microsoft Software including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Project and other management software.

The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; sit, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; use hands to finger, grasp, or feel objects; reach with hands and arms; push or pull; talk and hear; use repetitive motions.

The employee is frequently required to lift and/or move up to 20 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

The employee must have visual acuity to perform activities such as preparing and analyzing data and figures, transcribing, viewing a computer terminal, and extensive reading and visual inspections of site plans.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is subject to the following work environment:

The employee is subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions. 

The employee is subject to hazards such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, and electrical current.

TSLE is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. TSLE prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind based on age, race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, age, marital status, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, 

recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. TSLE makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. Please read through our EEO Policy for more information. TSLE is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. TSLE is a drug-free workplace.

Medical, vision, and dental insurance.

401(k) and company match after 1st year anniversary.

Company-provided life insurance.

Health Savings Account (HSA).

Education reimbursement program with management approval.

Annual paid time off.

Observance of 8 Federal Holidays.

Hybrid. Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

40-hour work week.

Occasional weekends.

On-call requirement.

TSLE makes offers of employment contingent upon (1) successful completion of a routine background investigation and reference check, (2) drug testing, and (3) Act 34 Child Abuse clearance.

Salary Range: $75K to $85K commensurate with experience.

Annual Discretionary Bonus Plan.