Solar Permitting Coordinator

DHRM; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Energy, part of the Department of Energy, seeks a Solar Permitting Coordinator to lead the Smart Solar Permitting Platform initiative in Richmond. You will oversee stakeholder engagement, plan projects, and develop procurement materials while managing the Platform administrator and ensuring compliance with Virginia regulations.

As a State Energy Office role, you will coordinate with localities and state partners to advance renewable energy deployment and modernization of permitting

Qualifications

• Understanding of local permitting processes related to solar energy systems.
• Understanding of renewable energy technologies, especially solar energy systems and energy storage.
• In-depth knowledge of statewide building code and update/appeals process.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; ability to explain complex information.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the Smart Solar Permitting Platform.
• Oversee stakeholder engagement and project planning.
• Develop procurement materials and manage the Platform administrator.
• Serve as primary point of contact for localities using the Platform.
• Monitor compliance with applicable requirements and support Code of Virginia 45.2‑1735.

Skills

Permitting knowledge

Solar energy

Building code knowledge

Stakeholder relationships

Communication

Problem solving

Project management

Data analysis

Multitasking

Independent work

Tools

PM software

Data analysis tools

Job description

Title: Solar Permitting Coordinator

State Role Title: Policy Planning Spec II

Hiring Range: $75,000 - $85,000/annually

Pay Band: 5

Agency: Department of Energy

Location: Richmond, Virginia

Agency Website: energy.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Virginia Energy’s State Energy Office is seeking a Solar Permitting Coordinator to lead the implementation of the Smart Solar Permitting Platform. This role will oversee stakeholder engagement and project planning, develop procurement materials, manage the contracted Platform administrator, serve as the primary point of contact for localities using the Platform, and monitor compliance with relevant requirements. Additional responsibilities will support the implementation of Code of Virginia 45.2‑1735.

Virginia Energy’s mission is to lead the Commonwealth to a safe, reliable and responsible energy future with greater emphasis on renewable energy programs and economic development, as well as implement the Virginia’s Energy Plan to ensure the Commonwealth has abundant, reliable, affordable and clean energy.

Come be a part of an agency that makes a difference. We have offices in Big Stone Gap, Charlottesville, and Richmond, Virginia.

Minimum Qualifications

• Understanding of local permitting processes, particularly related to solar energy systems and energy storage solutions.
• Understanding of renewable energy technologies, particularly solar energy systems and energy storage solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of the statewide building code, application of the building code, and update and appeals process
• Strong skills in building and maintaining relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including local, state and federal government partners, utility companies, community-based organizations, and business partners, among others.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences and advocate for program initiatives.
• Advanced problem-solving skills to identify challenges, develop innovative solutions, and manage risks in program implementation and operation.
• Proficiency in using project management software, data analysis tools, and other relevant technologies to manage and evaluate program performance.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and initiatives, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet deadlines and achieve program objectives in a fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaboratively within a team and across departments.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer by both policy and practice, therefore prohibits discrimination on basis of sex, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation or disability in the recruitment, selection and hiring of our workforce.

Veteran Hiring Preference

As a certified V3 organization, Virginia Energy honors the Commonwealth’s veterans hiring preference. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and other National Service Alumni are also encouraged to apply.

Additional Employment Requirements

All applicants for employment must consent to a comprehensive background check. Selected candidates must successfully pass a drug test, reference, driving, and criminal background check.

This position does not offer visa sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now or in the future. Selected candidate(s) will need to complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form.

This position is designated to file a financial disclosure under the State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act. This is a condition of employment, and you are required to submit the Statement of Economic Interests electronically through the Virginia Ethics Council’s online filing system annually.

This is a restricted position; continued employment is contingent upon available funding.

Accommodation for Applicants with Disabilities

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter.

Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Contact Information

Name: Human Resources

Phone: N/A

Email: [e-mail]