Project Manager - Solar

Westphal and Company, Inc.; Madison (WI); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Westphal and Company, Inc. is seeking a Solar Project Manager to oversee the electrical construction of solar energy projects from bid to completion. This role balances office duties with project-site oversight, ensuring safety, profitability, and effective communication with clients and field teams.

You will lead pre-construction activities, develop schedules, obtain quotes, and manage subcontractors. A strong knowledge of solar equipment, BESS, NEC compliance, and plan interpretation is

Qualifications

• 3+ years experience in solar or electrical construction project management.
• Construction experience in electrical or renewable energy preferred.
• Strong knowledge of solar equipment and BESS.
• Ability to read architectural/structural/civil drawings.
• Excellent problem-solving and independent decision-making.
• Collaborate with electricians, clients, and engineers.

Responsibilities

• Oversee pre-construction and construction processes to meet contract requirements.
• Negotiate material/equipment purchases and manage labor costs.
• Plan, schedule, and engineer work for optimal value with foreman.
• Manage project correspondence and delivery.
• Perform monthly job cost projections and advise on billings.
• Monitor productivity, profitability, and timelines; take corrective action.

Skills

Solar PM experience

Project management

Communication skills

Multitasking

Job description

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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