Description

The Solar Project Manager is responsible for the planning and deploying of Solar Neighborhood Initiative. This role involves coordinating with various stakeholders, educating community members, managing vendor contracts, and delivering projects on time and within scope. The ideal candidate will have experience working with diverse communities, strong project management skills, technical expertise (preferred, not required) in solar energy systems and energy efficiency, and a commitment to Detroit’s sustainability goals. The Program Manager will report to the City’s Chief Strategy Officer.

Examples of Duties

Project Planning and Execution:
- Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
- Oversee the end-to-end execution of Solar Neighborhood projects, from land acquisition to final installation and commissioning.
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
Stakeholder Coordination:
- Work closely with local government agencies including the Department of Neighborhoods, Planning and Development Department, Office of Sustainability, Detroit Land Bank Authority, Demolition Department, Detroit Building Authority and other City Departments as needed to complete the projects.
- Facilitate community engagement and education efforts to increase awareness, participation and support for solar neighborhood initiatives, and to ensure the project aligns with Detroit's sustainability goals.
Vendor and Contract Management:
- Manage contracts with solar developers and their subcontractors to deliver efficient project implementation.
- Assist with negotiating, managing and implementing neighborhood agreements.
- Oversee energy efficiency upgrades for eligible homeowners implemented by contractors; including outreach to eligible homeowners, tracking scopes of work and timeline to complete, braiding and blending resources, where applicable.
- Monitor contractor performance and ensure timely delivery of construction of solar arrays and solar power generation.
Budget Management:
- Manage project budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and financial accountability.
- Work with Office of Chief Financial Officer to track and report on project expenditures, making adjustments as necessary to stay within budget.
Reporting and Documentation:
- Prepare and present regular project status reports to stakeholders, including progress, challenges, and financial updates.
- Maintain thorough documentation of all project activities, including contracts, permits, and records.
- Ensure accurate and timely completion of all required documentation and reporting.
Real Estate Transactions
- Oversee land acquisition process from option agreements to closings, including tracking demolition and vegetation clearing.
- Develop and implement tracking process for real estate transactions and relocation of residents in the solar areas.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in engineering, Environmental Science, Construction Management, or a Minimum of 5 years of experience in the renewable energy sector or project/financial management.
Proven experience working with diverse communities and engaging stakeholders.
Strong knowledge of solar energy systems, energy efficiency, and sustainability practices.
Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
Proficiency in project management software and tools.
Familiarity with Detroit’s regulatory environment and sustainability goals is highly desirable.
Experience with energy efficiency programs in Detroit is a strong plus.

Work Environment:

The Solar Project Manager will primarily work in an office setting with regular visits to project sites.
The role requires frequent interaction with community members, which may involve evening or weekend meetings.
Some travel within Detroit and the surrounding areas may be necessary.

City of Detroit jobs

Solar Project Manager