Special Projects Manager

Overview

The Special Projects Manager plays a pivotal role in sourcing, planning, and executing unique and innovative initiatives within the solar photovoltaic field. This role involves managing the special projects division, with a focus on optimizing solar power systems, implementing cutting-edge solutions, and ensuring client satisfaction. The Special Projects Manager will collaborate with the Operations team and external partners to drive the delivery and profitability of special project business.

• Strategic Execution: Lead the planning, development, and execution of ESS special project business, ensuring all deliverables are met on time.
• Business Development: Actively identify and source special project opportunities to drive revenue growth and expand the company’s footprint in the solar market.
• Business Growth: Drive expansion within the existing client portfolio by developing high‑value special project proposals and partnering with operations to proactively identify and capitalize on new business opportunities.
• Field Leadership: Manage the special project field team, including providing on-site technical direction and work observation when necessary.
• Business Growth: Build and deliver special project proposals to clients and collaborate with the operations team to identify new business opportunities within the existing portfolio.
• Financial Management: Develop project budgets, track expenditures, and review profitability to ensure healthy project margins.
• Safety: Foster a culture of safety and implement risk mitigation strategies for all specialized work.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact for ESS management, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.

• Technical:
  • 4-6 years of experience with electrical systems and solar PV. Specific Solar O&M or installation experience.
  • Demonstrated expertise in medium‑voltage (MV) and high‑voltage (HV) AC and DC systems, including safe work practices, troubleshooting, and system commissioning.
  • Direct experience with BESS technologies, including PCS, battery modules, EMS/BMS platforms, commissioning, & firmware updates.
  • NABCEP certified PV Installer Specialist or PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist highly preferred.
  • Active Journeyman or Master Electrician’s license highly preferred.
  • OSHA 30-Hour certification.
• Capabilities:
  • Proficient in interpreting PV system as-built and electrical drawings.
  • High proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management software.
• Attributes:
  • Self-starter with strong time management skills and the ability to work independently.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset who understands the growth opportunities in the industry
• Logistics:
  • Ability to travel up to 50% on short notice.
  • Be comfortable working in a variety of climate conditions which may include but are not limited to, extreme heat (temperatures above 100°F) or extreme cold (temperatures below 32°F) for periods of more than one hour.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

The expected annual compensation range for this position is $120,000 - $130,000, encompassing base pay and potential incentive target opportunity. This range is a good faith estimate based on the position's requirements. Specific compensation offered to the selected candidate may vary depending on factors such as relevant knowledge, skills, training, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, this position may qualify for a comprehensive benefits package, including Retirement Benefits, Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Life Insurance and Disability, Tuition Reimbursement, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences, and more.

At New Energy Equity, a proud subsidiary of ALLETE, we’re leading the charge in transforming the energy landscape with innovative solar solutions. As a top player in the renewable energy sector, we’ve successfully developed over 600MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments. Our projects deliver sustainable electricity to a wide range of clients,…