Commercial Solar Project Manager
Vital Energy
*** NOT A REMOTE POSITION ****
COMMERCIAL PROJECT MANAGER- INTERNAL
The Commercial Solar Project Manager will oversee the full lifecycle of mid- to large-scale commercial and utility solar and battery energy storage projects-from feasibility and contract negotiation through commissioning and permission to operate (PTO). This individual will coordinate cross-functional teams and external stakeholders, ensuring quality, compliance, and timely project delivery. This is a hybrid role with regional travel, requiring strong leadership, communication, and project execution capabilities.
Key Responsibilities Project Planning & Execution
Financial Oversight
Stakeholder Communication
Compliance & Documentation
Contractor & Vendor Management
Risk Management & Quality Control
Qualifications
Required:
Preferred:
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
COMMERCIAL PROJECT MANAGER- INTERNAL
The Commercial Solar Project Manager will oversee the full lifecycle of mid- to large-scale commercial and utility solar and battery energy storage projects-from feasibility and contract negotiation through commissioning and permission to operate (PTO). This individual will coordinate cross-functional teams and external stakeholders, ensuring quality, compliance, and timely project delivery. This is a hybrid role with regional travel, requiring strong leadership, communication, and project execution capabilities.
Key Responsibilities Project Planning & Execution
- Manage all aspects of solar and energy storage project development from greenfield or acquisition through PTO, including feasibility, engineering, permitting, interconnection, and commissioning.
- Perform SWOT analyses on individual projects and across the pipeline to support strategic planning and prioritization.
- Collaborate with sales, engineering, permitting, interconnection, legal, project finance, procurement, and construction teams to define scope, timeline, and deliverables.
- Develop and maintain project schedules and weekly status reports, ensuring timely updates on progress, risks, and milestones.
Financial Oversight
- Create, track, and manage project budgets, aligning with contractual terms and financial objectives.
- Provide cost forecasting, reporting, invoicing, and manage change orders and financial closeout for both solar and battery storage systems.
Stakeholder Communication
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, subcontractors, vendors, and internal departments throughout the project lifecycle.
- Compile and present detailed project reports with actionable insights based on data analysis and site-specific factors.
- Lead regular project meetings, status updates, and reviews with all stakeholders.
Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including NEC, OSHA, and environmental and energy storage standards.
- Secure permits, coordinate with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), and maintain full project documentation including drawings, contracts, and closeout packages.
Contractor & Vendor Management
- Select, negotiate with, and oversee subcontractors and vendors to ensure quality, safety, and timely execution.
- Monitor field activity and verify alignment with plans, standards, and industry best practices.
Risk Management & Quality Control
- Identify risks across solar and battery energy storage projects and implement mitigation strategies.
- Oversee quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), testing, inspections, and commissioning procedures.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Renewable Energy, or related field-or equivalent industry experience.
- 3-5+ years of experience managing commercial solar and/or battery energy storage projects.
- Demonstrated success in budgeting, scheduling, permitting, and construction management.
- Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet).
- Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
- Familiarity with NEC, OSHA, energy storage codes, and local building regulations.
Preferred:
- PMP or similar project management certification.
- NABCEP certification in solar or energy storage.
- Experience with battery energy storage system (BESS) design and implementation.
- Experience with CRM and ERP platforms (e.g., Salesforce, NetSuite).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Hybrid work environment with regular site visits, including rooftop and battery storage locations.
- Ability to climb ladders, walk on rooftops, and operate standard office equipment.
- Regional travel to project sites up to 25%.
JOB SUMMARY
Commercial Solar Project Manager
Vital Energy
Sebastopol
20 days ago
N/A
Full-time
Commercial Solar Project Manager