About Solar States:
For more than 16 years, Solar States, LLC has been a regional leader in the solar power field – both in terms of system installations and workforce development in the emerging Green Collar economy. Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, we have installed over 1,500 solar systems, including rooftop solar, canopies, ground mounts, carports, EV chargers, and storage solutions. We have also installed more than 10 MW of commercial solar, typically behind the meter and in the 50 kW to 1.5 MW project range. Staying true to our founding mission, we have trained over 400 new entries into the Green Collar workforce. For 16 years, Solar States has been a dominant solar services provider in the Philadelphia region, especially within the Philadelphia City limits.
Position Overview:
Solar States is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Commercial Solar Project Manager to oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of commercial solar projects. This role requires a professional with at least two years of experience in solar project management who can manage all aspects of commercial solar installations, from initial planning, electrical review, equipment review, creation of bill of materials, on site project management, through final commissioning. As a Commercial Solar Project Manager, you will collaborate with a number of internal teams, coordinate logistics, and ensure that all projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet Solar States' high-quality standards. You will also serve as the primary point of contact for clients, maintaining strong relationships and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
● Project Planning & Management: Develop and manage detailed project plans (with the assistance of engineers), timelines, and budgets for commercial solar projects. Oversee all stages of the project, ensuring milestones are met.
● Client Communication: Serve as the primary liaison between clients, subcontractors, and internal teams. Provide regular updates on project progress and address any concerns or issues.
● Team Coordination: Work closely with engineers, designers, internal schedulers, procurement teams, and subcontractors to ensure all project requirements are met, including permits, materials, and labor coordination. The Commercial Project Manager will work closely with the Commercial Construction Manager and report to the Director of Commercial Solar.
● Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensure that all installations meet quality and safety standards, including local and state regulations. Conduct site inspections and review quality control measures throughout the project lifecycle.
● Budget Management: Track project expenses and ensure all work stays within approved budget constraints. Negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships.
● Documentation & Reporting: Maintain detailed project documentation, including timelines, contracts, and technical specifications. Provide regular reports to senior management and stakeholders.
● Risk Management: Identify and mitigate potential risks to the project schedule, budget, and quality. Resolve project-related issues efficiently.
● Project Handover: Ensure successful project completion, including the final inspection, system commissioning, and handover to the client (and to the internal operations & maintenance team). Provide post-installation support as needed.
Qualifications:
● Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, Renewable Energy, or a related field (preferred but not required).
● Minimum of 2 years of experience in project management, with a focus on commercial solar installations.
● Strong understanding of commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, including design, construction, and maintenance.
● Familiarity with permitting processes, local building codes, and solar energy regulations.
● Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and multitasking abilities.
● Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with clients, vendors, and team members.
● Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar).
● Ability to read and understand technical drawings and specifications.
● Knowledge of OSHA safety standards and construction site protocols.
● Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites.
● Strong Google suite skills (email, sheets, etc)
Preferred Skills:
● PMP (Project Management Professional) certification is a plus.
● Experience with solar design software (e.g., Helioscope, PVsyst).
● NABCEP certification (or working toward it) is highly desirable.
Compensation & Benefits:
● 15 days of paid vacation per year (prorated).
● 5 paid sick days per year (prorated).
● Paid holidays.
● $150/month contribution toward Solar States Health Insurance Program.
● Short-term disability coverage.
● 75% coverage of dental insurance (50% for dependents).
● 3% contribution to the 401k program after 90 days.
● Entry into Solar States profit-sharing plan after 6 months.
● Per project bonuses for beating project profit expectations
Company Culture: As a B-Corp, Solar States is committed to the triple bottom line: people, the planet, and profit. We foster a highly productive yet relaxed company culture and seek self-motivated individuals who excel in collaborative, growth-oriented environments with strong time management skills.
Company Property: All company property must be treated with respect, including driving company vehicles safely and courteously and handling tools with care.
A company vehicle will be provided for all tasks that require driving. Mobile internet is also available for onsite communications.
Solar States is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.