System Design Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At Sugar Hollow Solar, we are fueled by the belief that humans can flourish on this planet in an ecologically sustainable way, and the pathway to get there starts with abundant clean energy!

Based out of Asheville, NC, Sugar Hollow Solar offers energy solutions for homes, farms, small businesses and other commercial properties by designing and installing solar electric systems (rooftop or ground-mounted), battery backup systems and EV charger stations, as well as, systems maintenance.

Sugar Hollow Solar has grown into Western North Carolina's largest solar installer, having completed over 900 installations with an unwavering commitment to quality and integrity. Our mission is to preserve this beautiful planet for ourselves and future generations by transitioning our community to clean, renewable energy, using business as a positive force for change!

Sugar Hollow Solar is hiring a Sr. Design Specialist! This key position is responsible for delivering accurate and high-quality system designs and proposals, providing technical expertise in the design and engineering of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for both commercial and residential projects, with a focus predominantly on commercial. This role blends deep technical knowledge with project oversight to ensure that all designs are code-compliant, tailored to client energy needs and aligned with project goals. The Sr. Design Specialist collaborates closely with project managers, sales consultants and installation teams to develop comprehensive system plans from initial concept through permitting and final construction.

Our ideal candidate brings strong knowledge of photovoltaic (PV) systems, battery storage, deep experience with solar design, drafting or a related field to the position and believes in the power of renewable energy!

Job Duties & Responsibilities:

• Creates detailed project documentation and design packages including plan sets, electrical diagrams, site layouts, material lists and installation instructions
• Estimates commercial installation costs and prepares all commercial bids and proposals
• Works closely with commercial Energy Consultants to develop the best system design options to present to the customer.
• Analyzes roof conditions shading and other site characteristics to determine the viability of solar installations and determine client needs
• Calculates the appropriate system size to meet the customers energy needs and provides production estimates
• Creates detailed drawings and layouts of the PV and storage systems, ensuring appropriate placement of panels and other equipment
• Selects proper solar panels, inverters and other components for system designs
• Ensures designs meet all applicable codes, utility interconnection requirements and jurisdictional permitting standards
• Collaborates with project managers and other stakeholders to support permitting, utility applications and construction handoff
• Performs commercial site assessments
• Provides technical support during installations and commissioning and helps to troubleshoot any issues that may arise
• Provides technical guidance and assistance to other Design Specialists and serves as a mentor within the design team. This will include assisting with residential proposal and design, service design/estimating requests and/or residential site survey tasks as needed.
• Stays up to date on solar technologies, code updates and software tools to improve design accuracy and efficiency
• Reviews job costing and maintain pricing database

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years experience designing residential and commercial solar PV systems required
• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy or a related technical field required
• NABCEP certification preferred
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification preferred
• Minimum 2 years experience PV Installation and/or Project Management preferred
• Familiarity with Aurora, Helioscope, Energy Toolbase and PVBid preferred

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Able to effectively translate client needs into efficient, cost-effective system designs that maximize energy production and meet regulatory requirements
• Ability to review and interpret site assessments, structural evaluations and energy usage data and make informed design decisions
• Expertise in solar design with the ability to produce accurate layouts, system sizing and electrical diagrams
• Expertise in applicable codes and standards including NEC, IBC, local permitting requirements and utility interconnection guidelines
• Strong grasp of permitting and interconnection processes
• Ability to maintain a high level of quality and consistency across all design deliverables
• Strong familiarity with grid-tied system design, battery storage integration and emerging solar technologies
• Ability to manage multiple design timelines and ensure alignment with project schedules
• Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• High attention to detail and thoroughness
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

Benefits & Perks Include

• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Employer paid Basic Life
• Supplemental plans-STD, Accident, Critical Illness
• EAP
• HSA
• Teladoc
• Wellness Program
• Generous PTO
• Pd Holidays
• Pd Parental Leave
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Career Development plans