Senior Program Manager

Willdan Group, Inc.; Minnetonka (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Willdan Energy Solutions seeks a Senior Program Manager to oversee energy efficiency programs with multi‑million dollar budgets. You will lead a skilled team, cultivate client relationships, and drive strategic program delivery across stakeholders in the energy sector.

The role emphasizes budget forecasting, process improvement, and clear communication with utilities and customers. Strong leadership, planning, and technical knowledge are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience managing diverse teams.
• Strong strategic planning and execution ability.
• In-depth knowledge of energy efficiency technologies and standards.
• Analytical, problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Autonomous work style with collaboration across stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight for multiple programs.
• Mentor program management staff.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Define staff and budget resource requirements and reporting.
• Develop budgets and forecasts in collaboration with finance.
• Identify and improve operational inefficiencies in processes.
• Supervise resources to meet contract goals and budgets.
• Oversee and manage relationships with utilities and program participants.
• Manage tools, processes, and procedures for subcontractors and trade allies.
• Track progress on program deliverables and report to leadership.
• Prepare annual/quarterly reviews for leadership and clients.
• Deliver clear program messaging to customers and staff.
• Address customer feedback and drive improvements.
• Support leadership in contract negotiations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Analytical Skills

Team Player

Communication

Education

Bachelor/Master degree in relevant field

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Why Join the Willdan Team:

We are motivated to solve some of tomorrow's biggest obstacles - especially those in energy and infrastructure. Our employees want to make a difference, and we have the aspiration, resources, and technical know-how to do it. Our rapid growth and successes over the past five decades stem from our ability to think big while also paying special attention to project quality and customer service. Willdan's work culture blends the stability of an established organization with a reputation for quality and the flexibility and opportunities of a progressive, growing company. We value and enjoy the opportunity to come to work every day and make a real, positive impact on our society and the environment.

Who We Are:

Willdan is a nationwide provider of comprehensive solutions that help organizations evolve and thrive as natural resources and infrastructure change. Our team of experts in energy, engineering, safety, financial and strategic planning, microgrids, and software offer best-in-class services ranging from electric grid optimization to energy efficiency to energy design assistance. Using this collective expertise, we have delivered over 100,000 projects to public agencies, small businesses, healthcare, hospitality, and educational facilities. We provide program administration and assistance to improve grid resiliency to over 50 investor‑owned utilities.

The Senior Program Manager will make operational decisions to meet program objectives for new construction energy efficiency programs with an operating budget of $2 million or more. They will motivate the assigned program team and are accountable for monitoring progress towards program goals - making the necessary changes to improve program performance. The role is accountable for supporting program success through resource allocation, budget and accounting support and providing excellent customer support for both the utility and the new construction customers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic oversight and direction for multiple programs.
• Mentor and develop program management staff serving smaller programs.
• Develop and maintain high-level relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Define the staff and budget resource requirements, operational expectations, and internal reporting requirements needed to achieve annual goals.
• Develop and manage program budgets and forecast in collaboration with financial manager.
• Identify inefficiencies in processes and develop solutions to continually improve operational efficiency and customer service.
• Supervise internal and external resources to ensure compliance with utility requirements including contract goals, budgets and cost‑effectiveness, making program tactical changes as needed.
• Oversee and manage the relationship between Willdan, and utilities and program participants.
• Manage the development of tools, processes and procedures for subcontractors and trade allies.
• Track progress on program deliverables as part of overall program fulfillment.
• Report progress and any open or resolved issues to senior leadership on a regular basis.
• Prepare annual and quarterly business review for senior leadership review and approval prior to presenting to clients.
• Delivers clear and transparent program messaging for both external customers and internal staff.
• Addresses customer service complaints and feedback in a timely and professional manner; seeks solutions to prevent future occurrences.
• Support senior leadership and business development in contract negotiations and continuations.
• Provides clear and effective communication with all customers including team members, stakeholders, cross‑functional groups, etc.

Job Requirements / Qualifications:

• Bachelors or Masters Degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Building Science, Communications, Business or closely related field; or other equivalent experience.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and mentor a diverse team.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning and execution.
• In-depth knowledge of energy efficiency technologies, industry standards, and regulatory frameworks.
• Team player with strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making capabilities.
• Must be able to work autonomously as well as collaboratively with internal and external representatives.
• Knowledge of building science, construction, energy efficiency programs, sustainability, and industry standards.
• Forms and maintains positive relationships with internal/external customers and clients.
• Demonstrated capability in coordinating promotional activities relevant to our industry.
• Above average verbal and written communication and project management skills.
• Listens carefully and objectively to others and determine their wants, risks and needs prior to speaking.
• Plans and prepares in advance for the outcome Willdan wants from the discussion or presentation.
• Presents information in a manner consistent with Willdan's style and responsibilities.
• Proficiency in MS Office Applications (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Excel).

Willdan 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.