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Solar Project Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Wire Enterprise

Solar Project Manager

Calumet Park, IL · On-site

This position comes with the opportunity for professional growth and development and requires a minimum of 5 years of experience as a Project Manager in the solar or electrical construction industry.

Quality Solar

Solar Project Coordinator

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

You will be responsible for managing a high-volume pipeline of active projects, coordinating ... Paid Training & Professional Development * Stable, Growing Company with Long-Term Career ...

Quality Solar

Solar Project Coordinator

Glenview, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

You will be responsible for managing a high-volume pipeline of active projects, coordinating ... Paid Training & Professional Development * Stable, Growing Company with Long-Term Career ...

Quality Solar

Solar Project Coordinator

Golf, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

You will be responsible for managing a high-volume pipeline of active projects, coordinating ... Paid Training & Professional Development * Stable, Growing Company with Long-Term Career ...

Quality Solar

Solar Project Coordinator

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

You will be responsible for managing a high-volume pipeline of active projects, coordinating ... Paid Training & Professional Development * Stable, Growing Company with Long-Term Career ...

Quality Solar

Solar Project Coordinator

Niles, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

You will be responsible for managing a high-volume pipeline of active projects, coordinating ... Paid Training & Professional Development * Stable, Growing Company with Long-Term Career ...

Solar Landscape, LLC

Solar Project Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

About The Role We are seeking a Project Manager to oversee the full lifecycle of our solar projects ... Training / Professional development opportunities * 401(k) with 4% company match * Summer Fridays * ...

Solar Landscape

Solar Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $110K/yr

Plan and lead the design development effort for all assigned project teams. * Support Design team ... Manage professional engineer review process to obtain PE stamps on drawing packages. * Provide ...

Solar Landscape

Solar Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $110K/yr

Plan and lead the design development effort for all assigned project teams. * Support Design team ... Manage professional engineer review process to obtain PE stamps on drawing packages. * Provide ...

Socket.dev

Commercial Solar Project Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

About The Role We are seeking a Project Manager to oversee the full lifecycle of our solar projects ... Training / Professional development opportunities * 401(k) with 4% company match * Summer Fridays * ...

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Solar Project Development Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.3K

$97.4K

$146.3K

How much do solar project development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar project development manager in Chicago, IL is $97,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $111,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solar project development manager do?

A Solar Project Development Manager oversees the planning, development, and execution of solar energy projects from inception to completion. Their responsibilities include site selection, permitting, securing financing, managing stakeholder relationships, and coordinating with engineering and construction teams. They ensure projects comply with regulatory requirements, stay within budget, and meet deadlines. This role requires strong project management skills and a deep understanding of the solar energy industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar project development manager?

To thrive as a Solar Project Development Manager, you need expertise in renewable energy project management, financial analysis, site assessment, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), GIS tools, permitting systems, and knowledge of energy market regulations is highly valuable. Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully guiding complex solar projects from inception to completion, ensuring regulatory adherence, profitability, and stakeholder satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by solar project development managers during the permitting and approval process?

Solar Project Development Managers often encounter challenges navigating complex permitting and regulatory requirements, which can vary significantly by region. Coordinating with local authorities, addressing environmental impact concerns, and ensuring compliance with zoning laws can lead to project delays. Proactively building relationships with stakeholders and staying up-to-date with evolving regulations are crucial for success in this role. Effective communication and negotiation skills help streamline approvals and keep projects on track.

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

AspectSolar Project Development ManagerSolar Project Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, renewable energy, or related fields; project management certifications are commonUsually holds an engineering degree; may have specific technical certifications in solar or electrical engineering
Work EnvironmentFocuses on project planning, stakeholder coordination, and overseeing development phasesEngages in technical design, system analysis, and engineering implementation
Industry UsageUsed in project planning, development, and management within solar companies and EPC firmsFound in technical design, system integration, and engineering teams in solar projects

The Solar Project Development Manager primarily handles project planning, stakeholder coordination, and overall development, while the Solar Project Engineer focuses on technical design and engineering aspects. Both roles require relevant technical credentials and work closely within the solar project lifecycle, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Solar Project Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Solar Project Development Manager job openings:

Solar Project Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Project Development Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,391 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Solar Project Manager

Calumet Park, IL • On-site

LiveWire Construction
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about LiveWire Constructionexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Description - Solar Project Manager


We are seeking to fill the role of Project Manager for our fast-paced, growing Solar EPC business. This position comes with the opportunity for professional growth and development and requires a minimum of 5 years of experience as a Project Manager in the solar or electrical construction industry. This is a full-time, salaried position with benefits.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

The ideal candidate for the Solar Project Manager position is a detail-oriented and results-driven individual with experience overseeing solar construction projects from planning to completion. They possess strong technical knowledge of solar systems, permitting, and compliance, coupled with exceptional stakeholder management skills. Adept at balancing timelines, budgets, and quality, they excel in delivering sustainable energy projects that meet client and regulatory requirements.


Compensation:

  • $105k - $120k
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Potential for individual performance bonus
  • Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with employee match
  • Paid Time Off

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Independent and autonomous management of solar projects from preconstruction to close out, consistently utilizing company processes and procedures resulting in meeting or exceeding planned profits.
  • Solar Project Preconstruction Preparation and Postconstruction review: Conduct all reviews to determine areas for future improvement.
  • Contract Administration: Maintaining clear and accurate project documentation and records.
  • Delay and Claims Management - Negotiate and resolve all customer concerns.
  • Material and Subcontractor Buyouts - Purchase all materials and buy out all lower-tier subcontractors.
  • Coordinate and manage solar installers, conduct project meetings, and provide weekly progress reports to clients.
  • Project Financial Budget vs. Actuals Management - Create budgets, schedule of values, and monthly billings.
  • Field Productivity Tracking
  • Prioritize Safety: ensure that the work adheres to all contract conditions, company safety policies, and OSHA requirements.
  • Project Billing and Cashflow Management - Manage all financial aspects of projects through ongoing job forecasting
  • Change Order Management: Estimate change orders for assigned projects
  • Project Scheduling
  • Project Closeout - Accurately manage all project closeout procedures
  • Take the lead in project planning. Visit project sites; attend project meetings, build trust with field staff and collaborate with site superintendents; coordinate subcontractors
  • Work closely with Business Development team members providing recommendations on how to enhance and improve building and/or site configuration.
  • Provide site evaluation and due diligence including hiring consultants and evaluating/overseeing when required.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Requirements:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience as a solar Project Manager
  • Robust knowledge of installation of all electrical systems, specifically PV / DC systems
  • Commercial, Healthcare, Institutional, Industrial experience
  • Willingness to work long hours as needed
  • Ability to read plans and specifications, understand installation drawings
  • Estimating capabilities including labor factor analysis and modifications
  • Microsoft Office Suite proficient, Excel expert

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or construction management or similar field preferred.
  • Computerized estimating experience is preferred




EEO Statement

LiveWire Construction, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type.

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