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Solar Development Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Solar Landscape

Engineering Portfolio Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

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 ...

pepperconstruction

Solar Quality Technician

Barrington, IL · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction ... Career growth and skill development opportunities * Travel-focused role with company vehicle or ...

Invenergy

Manager, Development (East Region)

Chicago, IL

$120K - $160K/yr

Curious what a day in the life of a developer looks like? Watch hereto learn more! Responsibilities * Manage wind and/or solar projects within the United States * Lead development activities in early ...

Invenergy LLC

Associate, Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $103K/yr

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... Advance existing wind, solar, and energy storage project developments within the region of the ...

Invenergy LLC

Associate, Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $103K/yr

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... Advance existing wind, solar, and energy storage project developments within the region of the ...

Invenergy

Associate, Development

Chicago, IL

$85K - $103K/yr

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... Advance existing wind, solar, and energy storage project developments within the region of the ...

Invenergy LLC

Associate, Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $103K/yr

Curious what a day in the life of a developer looks like? Watch here to learn more! Responsibilities * Lead development of individual solar, storage, and/or wind projects in the United States.

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All JobsSolar Development Engineer JobsSolar Development Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Solar Development Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$50.5K

$99.1K

$158.1K

How much do solar development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar development engineer in Chicago, IL is $99,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $109,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration points between a Solar Development Engineer and other project stakeholders during a solar project lifecycle?

Solar Development Engineers frequently collaborate with a variety of stakeholders, including project managers, environmental consultants, utility representatives, and permitting authorities. Throughout the project lifecycle, they work closely with design teams to optimize system layouts, support permitting processes by providing technical documentation, and communicate with construction teams to address engineering challenges during installation. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as the engineer often serves as a technical liaison, ensuring that all parties are aligned on project goals, timelines, and compliance requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Solar Development Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering (electrical, mechanical, or renewable energy), project management, and a thorough understanding of solar technologies, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with software like AutoCAD, PVsyst, and project management tools, as well as knowledge of permitting processes and industry standards, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure successful project planning, technical accuracy, and the efficient development of solar energy projects from concept to completion.

What does a Solar Development Engineer do?

A Solar Development Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the development of solar energy projects. They evaluate site feasibility, select appropriate solar technologies, and ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards. Their work also involves coordinating with project managers, construction teams, and regulatory agencies to bring solar projects from conception to completion. Additionally, they analyze data on energy production and system performance to optimize efficiency. This role is essential for advancing renewable energy initiatives and supporting the transition to sustainable power sources.

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

AspectSolar Development EngineerSolar Project Manager
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, renewable energy certificationsBachelor's in engineering, project management certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, technical analysis, site assessmentProject planning, team coordination, stakeholder communication
Industry UsageDesign and technical development of solar projectsOverseeing project execution from start to finish

While both roles are integral to solar projects, the Solar Development Engineer focuses on technical design and site analysis, whereas the Solar Project Manager oversees project execution, timelines, and stakeholder communication. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the solar industry.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Solar Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Solar Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Solar Development Engineer job openings:
Solar Development Engineer jobs near you
Engineering Portfolio Manager

Engineering Portfolio Manager

Solar Landscape

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 13 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
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. 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.