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Distributed Solar Development Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Solar Landscape

Engineering Portfolio Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$105K - $130K/yr

... distributed solar projects through the independent engineering technical review process. * Work with multiple teams within Operations (development, EPC, procurement, and construction) and across ...

Solar Landscape

Engineering Portfolio Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

... distributed solar projects through the independent engineering technical review process. * Work with multiple teams within Operations (development, EPC, procurement, and construction) and across ...

Solar Landscape

Solar Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Recognized as the #1 Distributed Generation Developer by New Project Media, the #1 National ... Plan and lead the design development effort for all assigned project teams. * Support Design team ...

Solar Landscape

Solar Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $110K/yr

Recognized as the #1 Distributed Generation Developer by New Project Media, the #1 National ... Plan and lead the design development effort for all assigned project teams. * Support Design team ...

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Distributed Solar Development information

What is the difference between Distributed Solar Development vs Solar Project Engineer?

AspectDistributed Solar DevelopmentSolar Project Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Renewable Energy, or related field; certifications like NABCEP are commonBachelor's in Engineering, Electrical or Mechanical; certifications like NABCEP are common
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site assessments, project planning, collaboration with developersDesign, technical analysis, project management, site inspections
Employer & Industry UsageSolar developers, renewable energy firms, project developersEngineering firms, solar installation companies, project management teams

Distributed Solar Development focuses on planning, permitting, and coordinating solar projects at various sites, often involving community or residential projects. Solar Project Engineers handle the technical design, engineering analysis, and technical problem-solving of solar projects. While both roles require similar credentials and work in the solar industry, their primary responsibilities differ: development versus engineering execution.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in distributed solar development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in distributed solar development often encounter challenges such as navigating complex permitting requirements, securing interconnection approvals from utilities, and managing multiple stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. These hurdles can be addressed by staying up-to-date with local regulations, fostering strong relationships with utility representatives, and employing effective project management tools. Additionally, collaborating closely with engineers, contractors, and clients helps streamline communication and ensures that projects stay on track and within budget.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Distributed Solar Development, and why are they important?

To succeed in Distributed Solar Development, you need a solid background in renewable energy systems, project management, and site assessment, often supported by a degree in engineering or environmental science. Familiarity with solar design software (like Helioscope or PVsyst), permitting processes, and relevant certifications (such as NABCEP) is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and stakeholder management skills help differentiate top performers in this field. These competencies ensure the effective design, implementation, and management of solar projects while facilitating collaboration among technical teams, clients, and regulatory bodies.

What is distributed solar development?

Distributed solar development refers to the planning, installation, and management of solar power systems that are located close to where the energy will be used, such as on residential or commercial rooftops. Unlike large, centralized solar farms, distributed solar projects are smaller in scale and often connected directly to local power grids or used to offset on-site electricity consumption. Professionals in this field handle project design, permitting, financing, and coordination with utilities to ensure efficient and reliable solar energy generation. This approach helps reduce energy transmission losses, supports grid resilience, and can lower energy costs for users.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Distributed Solar Development jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Distributed Solar Development job openings:
Distributed Solar Development jobs near you
Engineering Portfolio Manager

Engineering Portfolio Manager

Solar Landscape

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$105K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

About Us
 
Solar Landscape is the leading commercial rooftop solar developer in the U.S. Only 4% of commercial rooftops host solar today - we're changing that, fast. Commercial rooftop solar is the fastest, smartest way to build new clean power - delivering megawatts of generation in months, not years, and powering America's energy and future right where it's needed most. By turning rooftops into local power plants, we're reshaping how - and how fast - energy gets built in the U.S.

Recognized as the #1 Distributed Generation Developer by New Project Media, the #1 National Commercial Rooftop Solar Developer by Solar Power World, and winner of the U.S. Department of Energy's Grand Prize for Clean Energy, Solar Landscape is defining the future of energy generation in America.

Headquartered in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Solar Landscape has offices in Chicago, Baltimore, and New York City and operates in over a dozen states nationwide.

We move fast, solve hard problems, and take our work seriously - but never ourselves. We value clear thinking, accountability, and execution. At the same time, we're collaborative by default, and believe the best work happens when people enjoy working together. Our team is made up of smart, grounded people who show up for each other - whether that's troubleshooting a system design or catching up over lunch.

If you're looking to do meaningful work in a high-performance environment - and be part of the team reshaping how energy gets built in the U.S. - we'd love to meet you.

About The Role

The Engineering Portfolio Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and performance of a portfolio of solar energy projects from early-stage development through construction support. This role ensures engineering consistency, resource optimization, and alignment with business objectives across multiple projects, while driving standardization, efficiency, and technical excellence.

Responsibilities
  • Manage a portfolio of utility-scale, commercial, and/or distributed solar projects through the independent engineering technical review process.
  • Work with multiple teams within Operations (development, EPC, procurement, and construction) and across external teams to coordinate the completion of project specific tasks per expected schedules.
  • Establish and enforce processes for clear communication and deliverables scope of work.
  • Track portfolio performance metrics (cost, schedule, risk, and quality) and report to leadership
  • Identify and mitigate technical risks and project bottlenecks proactively
  • Be aware of compliance with local, state, and federal codes, utility requirements, and interconnection standards.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance engineering efficiency and scalability alongside strategies to help reduce lag between milestones.
  • Support due diligence efforts for new project acquisitions and pipeline expansion.
  • Work with Solar design team to provide guidance on project specifics and energy modelling assumptions.
  • Assist with the commissioning and testing review with Asset management to proactively reduce downtime during operational phase.
Qualifications
   Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or related field); PE license preferred
   3+ years of experience in solar or renewable energy engineering, with portfolio or program management exposure
   Strong understanding of solar PV system design, including electrical, structural, and civil components
   Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
   Familiarity with interconnection processes, AHJ requirements, and utility coordination
   Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, Primavera)
   Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Preferred Skills
   Experience with utility-scale and/or C&I solar portfolios
   Knowledge of energy storage systems (BESS) integration
   Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, PVsyst, Helioscope, or similar
   PMP or equivalent project management certification
$105,000 - $130,000 a year
Salary will vary depending on your location and job-related skills and experience. This is an incentive-based position with the potential to earn more. For part-time roles, your compensation will be adjusted to reflect your hours.
Benefits and Perks
 
We offer competitive compensation and benefits designed to support you inside and outside of work:
 
       Training / Professional development opportunities
       401(k) with 4% company match
       Summer Fridays
       Flexible remote/hybrid work options
       Paid parental leave
       Team lunches, events, and stocked kitchens
       Modern, collaborative office spaces in Asbury Park, New York City, Boston, Chicago, and Baltimore
       Medical, dental, and vision coverage
       Company-paid life and long-term disability insurance


We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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