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Solar Project Manager Jobs in Makanda, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Leading Niche

Solar Field Trainer

Carbondale, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

... solar installation projects. The trainer will lead demonstrations, supervise simulated ... Provide practical instruction in wire management, conduit preparation, equipment labeling ...

Innovative Emergency Management

Project Manager

IL · On-site

IEM is looking for a Full Time- Project Manager who is ready to develop and execute a comprehensive program strategy to achieve the goals of a state's Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). We ...

GeoSurfaces

Project Manager

Cape Girardeau, MO

Project Manager GeoSurfaces Midwest, a TenCate Company Location: Central Region, Missouri-Based Travel: Approximately 25% Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt Company Overview GeoSurfaces Midwest, a TenCate ...

Sih

Construction Project Manager

Energy, IL

$94K - $148K/yr

Participates in design meetings with project stakeholders: architects, engineers, construction manager, vendors, and SIH staff. * Ensures project team remains focused and develops project in ...

Signal Energy

Field Safety Technician

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

Lead Superintendent, Superintendents, Site Quality Manager, Site Safety Manager, Owners, Subcontractors Position Summary: Signal Energy is searching for a Craft Safety for the solar energy projects.

Signal Energy

Field Safety Technician

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

Lead Superintendent, Superintendents, Site Quality Manager, Site Safety Manager, Owners, Subcontractors Position Summary: Signal Energy is searching for a Craft Safety for the solar energy projects.

Signal Energy

Construction Coordinator

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

Minimum 3-5 years construction management experience on large commercial/multi-disciplined/industrial, utility, solar, or wind energy projects. Please beware of scams. *Signal Energy (*Note: or AHV ...

Signal Energy

Construction Coordinator

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

Minimum 3-5 years construction management experience on large commercial/multi-disciplined/industrial, utility, solar, or wind energy projects. Please beware of scams. *Signal Energy (*Note: or AHV ...

Liberty Utilities Co.

Coordinator II, Talent

Jackson, MO · Hybrid

$64K - $90K/yr

Ability to efficiently manage projects and pivot between activities as priorities evolve * An ... And, our growing portfolio of clean, renewable wind, solar, hydro and thermal power generation ...

Hansoninc

Construction Observer

Marion, IL · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Projects could also include highways, local roads, bridges, and earthen structures. A Day in the Life of a Construction Inspector at Hanson Here's a snapshot of what you would do in this role:

All JobsSolar Project JobsSolar Project Manager JobsSolar Project Manager Jobs in Makanda, IL

Solar Project Manager information

See Makanda, IL salary details

$33.8K

$79.3K

$142K

How much do solar project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar project manager in Makanda, IL is $79,316.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $101,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSolar Project ManagerSolar Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, project management certification often preferredBachelor's or master's in electrical, mechanical, or renewable energy engineering
Work EnvironmentOversees project teams, coordinates with clients, manages schedules and budgetsDesigns, analyzes, and develops solar systems, often working in labs or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by solar development companies, EPC firms, and project ownersCommonly employed by engineering firms, solar manufacturers, and consulting agencies

The Solar Project Manager focuses on overseeing solar projects from initiation to completion, managing teams, budgets, and timelines. In contrast, the Solar Engineer concentrates on designing and analyzing solar systems, ensuring technical feasibility and performance. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their daily responsibilities and focus areas differ significantly.

What Does a Solar Project Manager Do?

A solar project manager oversees the installation of solar projects, from small residential and commercial roofing projects to large-scale solar power plants. Your duties and responsibilities in this career can vary slightly depending on the scale of your project plan, but many of the principles are overlapping. You need to know how to develop budgets, manage proposals and bids from contractors, negotiate prices, pull building permits, coordinate the construction schedule, and be familiar with tax incentives and rebates for which your clients may qualify.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Solar Project Manager during the project lifecycle?

Solar Project Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multiple stakeholders, managing permitting and regulatory requirements, and ensuring projects stay on schedule despite weather or supply chain delays. They must also address technical issues that arise during installation and oversee quality control to meet safety and efficiency standards. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential to navigate these complexities and deliver successful solar energy projects.

What solar jobs pay the most?

Senior roles such as Solar Project Director, Solar Development Manager, and Solar Engineering Manager tend to have the highest salaries in the solar industry. These positions often require extensive experience, project management skills, and relevant certifications, and they typically offer higher compensation due to increased responsibility and expertise.

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

To thrive as a Solar Project Manager, you need strong project management skills, knowledge of renewable energy systems, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and relevant certifications like PMP or NABCEP is often required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help manage teams, stakeholders, and complex project timelines. These skills ensure solar projects are completed efficiently, safely, and within budget, maximizing both sustainability and client satisfaction.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

Solar project managers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, certifications, and managing large-scale projects. Salaries vary based on location, company size, and project complexity, with senior roles and those in high-demand regions often reaching or exceeding this figure.

How much do solar project managers make in the US?

Solar project managers in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project size. They often require knowledge of project management tools and renewable energy regulations to effectively oversee solar installations and teams.

What does a solar project manager do?

A solar project manager oversees the planning, design, and execution of solar energy projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. They coordinate with engineers, contractors, and clients, manage schedules, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Strong project management skills and knowledge of solar technology are essential for this role.
More about Solar Project Manager jobs
What cities near Makanda, IL are hiring for Solar Project Manager jobs? Cities near Makanda, IL with the most Solar Project Manager job openings:
Solar Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Project Manager job openings in Makanda, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,316 per year, or $38.1 per hour.
Solar Field Trainer

Solar Field Trainer

The Leading Niche

Carbondale, IL • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

About AOE International
AOE International is a nonprofit organization focused on community support, workforce development and education. We partner with public agencies, employers and community organizations to expand access to occupational training, industry-recognized credentials and sustainable employment opportunities.
Our workforce-development programs prepare participants for careers in construction, clean energy and related skilled trades.
Position Summary
AOE International is seeking an experienced Solar Field Trainer to provide practical, hands-on solar installation training to adult learners at the Vienna Correctional Center in Vienna, Illinois.
The Solar Field Trainer will prepare participants for entry-level employment in the solar and clean-energy industries by teaching the tools, techniques, safety practices and workplace expectations used on active solar installation projects. The trainer will lead demonstrations, supervise simulated installations, evaluate student performance and help participants develop the technical and professional skills needed to succeed as members of a solar installation crew.
This is a hands-on training position designed for an experienced solar installer, lead installer, crew lead, foreman, electrician, site supervisor or field trainer who is comfortable demonstrating installation work and coaching individuals with limited industry experience.
Formal classroom teaching experience is preferred but is not required. Candidates who have trained apprentices, new installers or field crews are encouraged to apply.
Key Responsibilities
Solar Field Training
  • Deliver hands-on training in the fundamentals of residential and commercial solar photovoltaic installation.
  • Demonstrate proper methods for receiving, staging, transporting and handling solar modules, racking components, electrical equipment and installation materials.
  • Teach students how to identify and safely use common solar installation tools, hand tools, power tools and electrical testing equipment.
  • Demonstrate proper measurement, layout, assembly and installation techniques for solar mounting and racking systems.
  • Train students in the placement, lifting, positioning and securing of photovoltaic modules.
  • Provide practical instruction in wire management, conduit preparation, equipment labeling, grounding and bonding.
  • Introduce students to the installation and basic functions of inverters, disconnects, combiner boxes, batteries and other balance-of-system components.
  • Demonstrate proper jobsite setup, equipment organization, material control and end-of-day cleanup procedures.
  • Teach introductory system inspection, testing, commissioning, maintenance and troubleshooting practices.
  • Reinforce installation quality standards and explain how workmanship affects system safety, performance and reliability.
  • Connect training activities to the responsibilities and expectations of entry-level solar installers.
Practical Skills Development
  • Organize and lead simulated solar installation projects in a controlled training environment.
  • Assign students to crew-style roles and rotate responsibilities to develop teamwork and jobsite readiness.
  • Demonstrate installation procedures before allowing students to perform tasks independently.
  • Observe students during hands-on exercises and provide immediate coaching and corrective instruction.
  • Evaluate students on tool use, safety, installation quality, productivity, communication and teamwork.
  • Conduct practical skills assessments and document student performance.
  • Provide additional demonstrations, practice opportunities and reassessments when needed.
  • Adapt training exercises to accommodate different experience, literacy and technical skill levels.
  • Help students develop the speed, accuracy, consistency and attention to detail expected by solar employers.
  • Ensure students understand not only how to complete each task but why the procedure is necessary.
Solar Industry and Jobsite Readiness
  • Introduce students to the solar project lifecycle, including site assessment, design, permitting, installation, inspection, interconnection, commissioning and maintenance.
  • Explain common solar-industry career paths, including installer, lead installer, electrician, operations and maintenance technician, site assessor, crew lead and project supervisor.
  • Teach students how solar installation crews are structured and how work is assigned and supervised.
  • Reinforce jobsite expectations related to attendance, punctuality, productivity, communication and professionalism.
  • Teach students how to follow instructions, ask appropriate questions and report jobsite concerns.
  • Incorporate teamwork, problem-solving, conflict resolution and workplace communication into practical exercises.
  • Discuss common employer expectations, advancement opportunities and industry-recognized credentials.
  • Help students translate their training and practical experience into marketable qualifications.
Safety Instruction
  • Deliver practical instruction in solar, construction and electrical safety.
  • Teach the proper selection, inspection and use of personal protective equipment.
  • Demonstrate safe lifting, material handling and equipment-moving techniques.
  • Provide instruction in ladder safety, fall prevention, fall protection and working-at-height awareness.
  • Teach electrical hazard recognition, lockout/tagout awareness and safe work practices around energized and de-energized equipment.
  • Reinforce hazard communication, housekeeping, heat-stress prevention and emergency-response procedures.
  • Conduct safety briefings before hands-on training activities.
  • Correct unsafe behavior immediately and document safety concerns when required.
  • Maintain an orderly, professional and OSHA-conscious training environment.
  • Support OSHA-10 instruction and certification activities as authorized and required by the program.
Tool, Equipment and Material Control
  • Maintain strict accountability for all tools, equipment, materials and instructional supplies.
  • Complete tool and equipment inventories before and after each training session.
  • Maintain accurate tool-control logs, equipment-issuance records and material inventories.
  • Inspect tools and equipment regularly for damage, defects or unsafe conditions.
  • Remove damaged or unsafe equipment from service and report concerns promptly.
  • Ensure tools and materials are stored securely in approved storage areas.
  • Follow all AOE International and Illinois Department of Corrections procedures concerning tool control, restricted materials and facility security.
  • Maintain appropriate instructor supervision whenever students are using tools or equipment.
  • Immediately report missing tools, damaged equipment, safety incidents or security concerns.
Learner Coaching and Support
  • Provide structured, respectful and supportive training to justice-impacted adult learners.
  • Use adult-learning, trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches.
  • Break installation procedures into clear, manageable steps.
  • Assist students who need additional support with measurements, construction math, technical terminology or written instructions.
  • Provide individual coaching, tutoring and additional practice when needed.
  • Establish clear expectations for behavior, participation, safety and performance.
  • Provide timely, specific and constructive feedback.
  • Help students build confidence while maintaining appropriate performance and safety standards.
  • Maintain professional boundaries and consistently enforce program and facility rules.
  • Encourage accountability, persistence and continuous improvement.
Curriculum and Credential Support
  • Support the delivery of applicable solar, construction and clean-energy training curricula.
  • Assist with NCCER Core instruction, hands-on performance profiles and related credentialing activities when required.
  • Reinforce construction safety, construction math, hand and power tools, material handling, communication and employability skills.
  • Support OSHA-10, First Aid/CPR and other certification activities in coordination with authorized instructors.
  • Align hands-on training exercises with program outcomes and industry-recognized standards.
  • Prepare practical assignments, demonstrations and printed instructional materials.
  • Assist with curriculum review and recommend updates based on current solar-industry practices.
  • Maintain familiarity with developments in photovoltaic equipment, installation methods and employer expectations.
Program Coordination and Documentation
  • Coordinate daily with facility personnel regarding schedules, participant movement, training-space access and security procedures.
  • Maintain a consistent trainer presence during all scheduled instructional and practical training activities.
  • Complete attendance records, student evaluations, assessment documentation and progress reports accurately and on time.
  • Document student competency, safety performance and areas requiring improvement.
  • Communicate student progress, behavioral concerns, safety issues and instructional needs to program leadership.
  • Contribute information needed for credentialing, grant, contract and performance reporting.
  • Participate in staff meetings, professional-development activities and technical-assistance sessions.
  • Coordinate with instructors, case managers, workforce staff and transition personnel.
  • Assist with equipment planning, supply requests and training-space organization.
  • Support resume preparation, mock interviews and employment-readiness activities when requested.

Requirements
  • At least three years of professional experience in solar installation, electrical work, construction, renewable energy or a closely related skilled trade.
  • Hands-on knowledge of photovoltaic installation practices, tools, equipment, materials and jobsite procedures.
  • Experience as a solar installer, lead installer, crew lead, foreman, site supervisor, electrician, quality-control specialist, field trainer or comparable professional.
  • Experience training, supervising, mentoring or coaching apprentices, new employees, students or installation crews.
  • Ability to safely demonstrate solar installation and construction tasks.
  • Knowledge of solar, construction and electrical safety practices.
  • Ability to explain technical procedures clearly to individuals with limited previous industry experience.
  • Strong communication, leadership, organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and comply with strict safety, security and tool-control procedures.
  • Ability to work effectively with adult learners from diverse educational, employment and personal backgrounds.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to the Vienna Correctional Center.
  • Ability to successfully complete all required background checks, facility-clearance procedures, orientations and security training.

Salary Description
80,000 - 100,000

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