Senior Program Manager

Willdan; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Willdan is seeking a Senior Program Manager to lead new construction energy efficiency programs with operating budgets of $2 million or more. You will blend technical knowledge with independent judgment to achieve goals, strengthen client relationships, and improve workflows.

You will own program direction, manage budgets, and ensure quality and compliance across initiatives, mentoring staff and driving continuous improvements.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of energy efficiency technologies, industry standards, and regulatory frameworks, underpinned by building science knowledge.
• Experience in strategic planning, program or project management, and delivering against measurable goals.
• Strong analytical judgment with the ability to explain tradeoffs and own outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Set program direction across multiple programs and translate objectives into actionable plans.
• Examine data, identify root causes, and develop practical solutions for complex program issues.
• Define staffing and budgets, forecast with finance, and allocate resources accordingly.
• Ensure quality and compliance with utility requirements and contract goals.
• Lead process improvements to tools, procedures, and workflows for staff and partners.
• Manage client relationships with credible communication and timely issue resolution.
• Mentor and lead program management staff, empowering greater independence.
• Prepare quarterly and annual business reviews with clear performance insights.
• Support contract negotiations and continuations with factual analysis and delivery understanding.

Skills

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

PowerPoint

Outlook

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in related field

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Senior Program Manager

9 days ago Requisition ID: 3043

Salary Range: $90,000.00 To $120,000.00 Annually

Take ownership. Challenge assumptions. Deliver precise, measurable results.

You dig into complex problems, question answers that lack evidence, and take initiative when you see a better way forward. You are comfortable making decisions, speaking directly, and tackling difficult conversations. You move with urgency—and hold yourself accountable for getting the details right.

At Willdan, these strengths can help shape the performance of energy efficiency programs and the teams that deliver them.

We are seeking a Senior Program Manager to lead new construction energy efficiency programs with operating budgets of $2 million or more. You will combine technical knowledge, independent judgment, and disciplined execution to achieve program goals, strengthen client relationships, and improve how work gets done.

How you approach the work

You think independently and look beyond today’s process to what could work better. You assess risks, develop a sound recommendation, and take ownership of moving it forward. When an assumption, decision, or approach needs to be challenged, you address it directly and respectfully, using facts to support your position.

You enjoy examining technical information and working through problems that require focused thought. You can work independently, investigate competing explanations, and distinguish evidence from opinion. You communicate conclusions clearly, explain your reasoning, and remain willing to revise your position when the facts warrant it.

You bring a natural sense of urgency to your work. You can manage varied responsibilities, respond to shifting priorities, and make timely decisions under pressure. When progress stalls, you identify the obstacle and take action.

You also recognize that speed requires discipline. You check critical details, follow applicable policies and contractual requirements, and see commitments through to completion. You know when an established process must be followed and when to propose a change through the appropriate channels.

What you will own

• Program direction and results. Set priorities across multiple programs, anticipate challenges, and translate annual objectives into clear plans. Monitor performance and make timely adjustments to meet commitments.
• Technical and operational problem-solving. Examine data, question assumptions, identify underlying causes, and develop practical solutions to complex program issues.
• Budgets and resources. Define staffing and budget requirements, collaborate with the financial manager on forecasts, and make informed decisions about resource allocation.
• Quality and compliance. Direct internal and external resources to meet utility requirements, contract goals, budgets, and cost-effectiveness expectations. Maintain accurate reporting and thorough follow-through.
• Process improvement. Identify inefficient practices and lead improvements to tools, procedures, and workflows for staff, subcontractors, and trade allies. Evaluate the risks and benefits of proposed changes.
• Client relationships. Build credibility through preparation, technical understanding, and dependable delivery. Address concerns promptly, navigate difficult conversations, and communicate issues and recommendations candidly.
• Team leadership. Establish clear expectations, delegate meaningful responsibility, and hold people accountable. Mentor program management staff and help them develop sound judgment and greater independence.
• Reporting and communication. Prepare quarterly and annual business reviews that clearly explain performance, risks, and recommended actions. Adapt technical information to the needs of clients, leadership, and program teams.
• Program continuity. Support senior leadership and business development in contract negotiations and continuations with factual analysis and a clear understanding of delivery requirements.

What you bring

• In-depth knowledge of energy efficiency technologies, industry standards, and regulatory frameworks, supported by an understanding of building science, construction, and sustainability.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, program or project management, and execution against measurable goals.
• Strong analytical judgment and the confidence to make decisions, explain tradeoffs, and take responsibility for outcomes.
• Proven ability to lead and mentor a team, coordinate resources, and address performance issues directly and professionally.
• The discipline to manage competing deadlines while maintaining accuracy, documentation, and compliance.
• Clear, factual written and verbal communication, including reports, presentations, recommendations, and client discussions.
• Experience coordinating promotional activities relevant to the industry.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture, mechanical or electrical engineering, construction management, building science, communications, business, or a closely related field—or equivalent experience.

EEO Non-Discrimination and ADA Reasonable Accommodation StatementWilldan is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religious creed, color, age marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, religion, military service or veteran status, disability, medical condition, childbirth and related medical conditions, genetic testing, reproductive status or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws and ordinances. Willdan does not discriminate on the basis of physical or mental disability where the essential functions of the job can be reasonably accommodated. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us.

Willdan Energy Solutions participates in E-Verify.