Solar Programs Associate - Strategy and Outreach (Hybrid - Chicago, IL) Solar Programs Associat[...]

Seeds Renewables; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement package

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Job summary

Seeds Renewables is seeking a Solar Programs Associate in Chicago, IL to oversee program operations like rebate processing and issue resolution. This hybrid role supports outreach activities and maintains program compliance.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in project management, strong communication skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office. The salary for this position ranges from $60,000 to $70,000, and the company offers a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, and retirement options.

Qualifications

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Demonstrated stakeholder communication skills.
• Experience in data validation and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Manage application queues and shared inboxes.
• Review, validate, and process applications and claims.
• Compile, validate, and organize program data.

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Organizational skills and attention to detail

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in project management or related field

High School degree plus 2 years’ experience

Job description

Solar Programs Associate - Strategy and Outreach (Hybrid - Chicago, IL)

Energy Solutions is looking for a Solar Programs Associate to execute and own a defined segment of program operations within the Energy Solutions program portfolio. This role supports day‑to‑day workflow performance for assigned programs, including rebate processing and incentive claims, ensuring timely processing and issue resolution, data integrity, and compliance with program rules and internal controls.

Job Description

At Energy Solutions, we focus on the big impacts. We believe that market‑based programs can be a powerful force to deliver large‑scale energy, carbon, and water‑use savings. Since 1995, we’ve offered proven, performance‑based solutions for our utility, government, and institutional customers.

Responsibilities

• Manage application queues and shared inboxes to ensure claims and participant inquiries are addressed in accordance with documented SOPs
• Review, validate, and process applications and claims in accordance with program rules, eligibility criteria, and SOPs
• Escalate non‑routine issues, complaints, or exceptions to the Project Manager as appropriate
• Maintain accurate records and documentation, in alignment with program guidelines and compliance requirements, in program systems, databases, or CRMs
• Support outreach activities including event preparation, presentation preparation, occasional event attendance and outreach inquiries
• Respond to participant, customer, contractor, and trade ally emails, phone calls, and inquiries regarding application status, program guidelines, or other questions, professionally and promptly
• Apply and communicate program rules, procedures, and eligibility requirements using established guidance to support submission quality and reduce rework
• Support working relationships with distributors, contractors, and other stakeholders through phone or virtual interactions
• Resolve routine issues within established guidelines and escalates complex participant or technical questions when needed. Apply program guidelines and SOPs to resolve disputes or address non‑compliance
• Document investigations and outcomes, including drafting responses or correspondence based on template responses, provided in program Service Level Agreement(s) (SLAs), as needed
• Compile, validate, and organize program data for internal review and client reporting. Proofread deliverables and correct basic errors before they go out
• Review work for accuracy and completeness before submission and flag issues to the Project Manager
• Review program information and gather references to support process improvements
• Execute data validation and quality assurance activities for assigned workflows using defined checklists and processes
• Track and report discrepancies to support consistency and reduce rework
• Identify and suggest improvements to program procedures and operational workflows to enhance efficiency
• Apply and update established processes and documentation to support accuracy and consistency
• Maintain detailed documentation to support audits, reporting, and program transparency
• Support scheduling, resource coordination, and administrative project activities as needed
• Follow established program controls to support compliance, fraud prevention, and risk management

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in project management or related field required, or High School degree plus 2 years’ experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to answer stakeholder and program participant inquiries received over email or calls concisely, courteously, and professionally
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to identify issues and escalated when needed
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple tasks and deadlines and respond to internal communication from peers and managers promptly

Salary Range

The salary range for this role is $60,000 to $70,000, with a target compensation of $60,000 to $66,500 based on experience and qualifications.

Compensation is commensurate with experience and includes a generous retirement package. Energy Solutions provides an excellent benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, other pre‑tax contribution plans and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

AI Use

At Energy Solutions we believe in the importance of authentic interactions and equitable opportunities. We base our candidate selection on one’s own skills, knowledge, and experience. To ensure the integrity and fairness of our interview process, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) or other means to generate or assist with responses during interviews is strictly prohibited. This practice supports our commitment to create a transparent and equitable space where skills, knowledge and experience can truly shine.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Energy Solutions is an affirmative action‑equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. We afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law. Energy Solutions conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

Background Check Information

Information will be requested to perform the compulsory background check. A drug screen and authorization to work in the U.S. indefinitely are preconditions of employment. Energy Solutions is an equal opportunity employer.

Reasonable Accommodations

Energy Solutions is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodations in completing this application, interviewing, and/or completing any pre‑employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please email [e-mail].