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Distributed Solar Development Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Atwell, LLC

Environmental Planner

Southfield, MI · On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

... land development, and energy markets. We have a strong national presence and a diverse, award ... distributed generation solar, battery energy storage system, land-based wind, and electric ...

Atwell, LLC

Environmental Planner

Allendale, MI · On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

... land development, and energy markets. We have a strong national presence and a diverse, award ... distributed generation solar, battery energy storage system, land-based wind, and electric ...

Utilidata

VP, AI & Applications

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site +1

$230K - $290K/yr

... solar plus battery. The VP partners with the VP, Engineering on the platform that runs these ... Drive technical co-development with strategic technology partners across hardware, firmware, and ...

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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 Michigan are hiring for Distributed Solar Development jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Distributed Solar Development job openings:
Distributed Solar Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distributed Solar Development job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% As Needed, 47% Full Time, and 41% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.
Environmental Planner

Environmental Planner

Atwell, LLC

Southfield, MI • On-site, Remote

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Atwell rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 355 rated engineering

Job description

Who We Are

Atwell, LLC is a bold leader in the consulting, engineering, and construction services industry, delivering a broad range of creative solutions to clients in the real estate & land development, and energy markets. We have a strong national presence and a diverse, award-winning project portfolio. Atwell is a privately owned company, with 2,000+ passionate team members across 75+ locations and growing!

Atwell, LLC is a proud recipient of the following 2025 awards:

  • Ten consecutive years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" by Zweig Group (#11)
  • Recognized as #70 in the ENR Top 500 Design Firms, ranked in every region
  • Recognized in Crain's "Fast 50" as one of the fastest-growing companies (#14)
  • Recognized as the 2025 ENR Design Firm of the year for the Southeastern US

We have immediate opportunities for an Environmental Planner in the Midwest United States region to support our growing renewable energy practice, with specific emphasis on siting and permitting. This Environmental Planner position is preferred to be affiliated with our Southfield or Allendale, MI office but can be a remote position based in the Midwest. Project work may include siting, routing, and permitting for utility-scale and distributed generation solar, battery energy storage system, land-based wind, and electric transmission projects primarily throughout the Midwest.

Responsibilities:

  • Support Project Managers with the execution of renewable energy studies including critical issues analysis, due diligence support, research and interpret state, county and local ordinances and site planning approval process.
  • Coordinate with Project Managers, subject matter experts, field technicians, administrative staff and subconsultants to assemble and submit permit applications.
  • Facilitate project meetings and agency coordination.
  • Support with the development of material for agency meetings, public outreach, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Coordinate project schedules, project task tracking, and submittal deadlines.
  • Review reports and interpret impacts to project development.
  • Work on multiple projects and tasks within specific budgets, schedules, and deadlines.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field such as land use planning, natural resource management, environmental policy, or similar degree or equivalent.
  • 3-7+ years of demonstrated work experience performing similar tasks.
  • Prior environmental and renewable energy consulting experience strongly preferred.
  • Ability to research and interpret county and local zoning ordinances.
  • Experience preparing special land use and conditional use permits.
  • Experience with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process preferred.
  • Familiarity with USFWS Land Based Wind Energy Guidelines.
  • Knowledge of GIS Analysis and Methodologies.
  • Willingness to travel for limited project needs.
  • Possess a valid driver's license in good standing.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with project teams, clients, and agencies.

Disclaimer

While AI tools may support your application process, this role is built on human talent. Your judgment, experience, and character matter most, so we encourage you to showcase what makes you uniquely you.

Atwell does not accept unsolicited resumes from any 3rd party agencies. No fee will be paid to 3rd parties who submit unsolicited resumes to any Atwell employee. Resumes from approved vendors must be specifically requested by Atwell and approved by the Atwell Talent Acquisition Team.

#LI-WS1

Pay Range
$70,000—$90,000 USD

Atwell Benefits: To attract and retain the best professionals in the industry, we aim to provide an excellent working environment and a progressive benefits program designed to support your personal and professional needs.

Work/Life:

  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible work schedules are available for some positions
  • Tenure Awards — Travel Vouchers to see the world based on your travel preferences

Compensation:

  • Competitive Compensation packages
  • Annual bonuses, spot bonuses and peer recognition awards
  • 401K match - 1:1 up to 4% of compensation
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Student Loan Repayment
  • Paid Licensing / Certification Fees and Renewals
  • Financial Rewards for Obtaining Licensure
  • Employee Referrals
  • Annual Wellness Reimbursement for anything wellness related (Gym memberships, fitness tracker, home gym equipment, etc.)
  • Dependent Care Match

'Atwell'ness:

  • Medical (BC/BS), Dental (Delta), and Vision (VSP)
  • Family Planning & IVF Benefits
  • Pet Insurance
  • Health Savings Account & Flex Spending Account options
  • Employer paid LTD, STD, and life insurance
  • Metlife Supplemental Benefits covering accident, hospitalization, and critical illness
  • Member Assistance Program (MAP) with complimentary counseling sessions, legal benefits, financial consultations, and work/life referral services