Solar Programs Lead — Equity, Policy & Budgeting

The JPI Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The JPI Group seeks a Solar Program Manager to lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of our Solar program within the Energy Management team in Chicago. The role advances equitable access to renewable energy for income-qualified households and communities.

You will oversee day-to-day operations, manage client relationships, ensure compliance with state program rules, and guide strategic program planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Public Policy, Sustainability, Business, or related field.
• Experience in solar programs, renewable energy policy, or program administration.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Budget and staff management experience.
• Ability to interpret and apply policy to operations.
• Precise client management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, implementation, delivery, and continuous improvement of the Solar program.
• Oversee day-to-day operations and client relationships.
• Ensure compliance with state program rules and evolving policy.
• Guide strategic program planning and annual budgeting.
• Provide training, support, and resource development.
• Prepare weekly updates, monthly reports, and quarterly presentations.
• Supervise 5+ FTEs and manage performance.
• Collaborate with Engineering, QA/QC, and Evaluation teams.
• Interpret and operationalize incentives and policy changes.
• Build partnerships with Approved Vendors, CBOs, developers, and market actors.

Skills

Client management

Budget management

Staff management

Program management

Policy interpretation

Stakeholder relationships

Training & coaching

Reporting & analytics

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Public Policy, Sustainability, Business, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

CRM platforms

Project tracking tools

Job description

The JPI Group seeks a Solar Program Manager to lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of our Solar program within the Energy Management team in Chicago. The role advances equitable access to renewable energy for income-qualified households and communities.

You will oversee day-to-day operations, manage client relationships, ensure compliance with state program rules, and guide strategic program planning.