Project Manager - Solar

Westphal & Company; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Westphal & Co. seeks a Solar Project Manager to lead electrical construction of solar projects from bid through completion. The role balances office and field duties, ensuring efficiency, profitability, and clear client communication.

You will guide electricians and low voltage techs, support pre-construction activities, and drive successful project delivery. The ideal candidate has 3+ years in solar or electrical project management, with strong estimating, negotiation, and NEC knowledge.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in solar or electrical construction project management.
• Experience with preconstruction activities and PV system design/build concepts.
• Strong knowledge of NEC standards and interconnection processes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee estimating and proposal preparation for solar/ electrical projects.
• Develop and maintain client relationships to generate opportunities.
• Manage preconstruction and construction phases for profitability and schedule.
• Coordinate with electricians, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure compliance.
• Monitor project costs, billings, and productivity; adjust as needed.
• Interpret diagrams, assist in design documents, and ensure safety compliance.

Skills

Solar PM

Estimating

Negotiation

Communication

BESS knowledge

NEC knowledge

Interconnection

NABCEP pref

Job description

Founded in 1931, Westphal & Co. is a full service electrical & technology contractor serving the Midwest and selected domestic markets from our headquarters in Madison, WI. Our primary markets include governmental, commercial, industrial, health care, and energy. We have both PE’s and RCDD’s on staff. The company performs work on everything from residential projects to the largest industrial projects. Our Globalcom Technologies division is a technology contractor specializing in structured cabling, security/CCTV, and cellular enhancement projects. In addition to construction, we also provide full preconstruction, design build services, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and prefabrication. Westphal & Co. Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Solar Project Manager to oversee the entire electrical construction process of solar energy projects from initial bid to final completion. This role will involve balancing responsibilities between the office and the project site while ensuring project efficiency, profitability, and effective communication with both clients and field teams.

As a Solar Project Manager, you will serve as the primary liaison between our company and the client, providing leadership and support to electricians and low voltage technicians. Your ability to navigate pre-construction activities,

manage project schedules, negotiate materials, and ensure compliance with safety and code standards will be vital to the project’s success.

Key Responsibilities:

Estimating and Proposal Preparation:

• Estimate a variety of project delivery methods, including Plans and Specifications, Design Build, and Conceptual Estimating.
• Perform quantity takeoffs as required, request, evaluate, and secure equipment and subcontractor quotes.
• Review and compile project pricing using the company’s proprietary software and labor/material database.
• Assist in developing and responding to RFPs.

Business Development:

• Develop and maintain relationships with targeted customers to generate project opportunities.
• Participate in business development activities aligned with company strategy.
• Engage in social, civic, and trade activities to enhance company visibility and goodwill.
• Establish contacts with potential and past clients to secure work and promote services.

Project Management:

• Oversee the entire pre-construction and construction process, ensuring the project meets contractual requirements.
• Maximize project profitability by negotiating material/equipment purchases and managing labor costs.
• Work with project foreman to plan, schedule, and engineer the work for optimal value.
• Handle project correspondence and manage all aspects of project delivery.
• Perform monthly job cost projections and advise on project billings.
• Monitor and manage project productivity, profitability, and timelines; take corrective action as needed.

Technical Expertise & Knowledge:

• Assist in the creation of solar installation designs and construction documents with the in-house Electrical Engineer.
• Interpret and develop single-line diagrams for solar installations.
• Be familiar with the project’s manpower, tools, equipment, and permitting requirements.
• Work with utility companies and permitting agencies, understanding utility rates, the interconnection process, and relevant solar rebates/incentives.
• Have a strong knowledge of Solar Equipment (Modules, Inverters, Racking) and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
• Ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), specifically Articles related to solar installations.
• Experience with commissioning and programming of solar equipment.
• Understanding of vehicle charging stations and solar energy storage systems.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 3+ years of experience in solar or electrical construction project management, with a focus on solar energy systems.
• Construction experience is preferred, especially in the electrical or renewable energy sector.
• Strong understanding of solar equipment (modules, inverters, racking) and related electrical systems.
• Ability to interpret architectural, structural, and civil drawings for design and implementation.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to make independent decisions.
• Ability to foster and maintain positive relationships with electricians, clients, architectural/engineering firms, and general contractor personnel.
• Solid knowledge of utility rates, interconnection processes, solar rebates, and incentives.
• Familiarity with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Vehicle Charging Stations.
• Strong understanding of industry standards, procedures, and the National Electrical Code (NEC); NABCEP Certification is preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects effectively.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ambitious with a strong work ethic, team-oriented, and a positive attitude.
• Ability to represent company interests with intelligence, assertiveness, and confidence.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: [phone] (ext. 2016)
Email: [e-mail]

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
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