Permit & Utility Interconnections Specialist

Permit & Utility Interconnections Specialist

Sugar Hollow Solar, based in Asheville, NC, is hiring a Permit & Utility Interconnections Specialist to manage utility interconnection and permitting processes for residential and commercial solar projects.

• Prepares and submits interconnection applications for residential and commercial solar projects and tracks those applications, proactively following up with utility providers to ensure timely approval.
• Reviews and verifies technical documentation including single-line diagrams, site plans and interconnection packages, ensuring compliance with utility and AHJ requirements; works with internal teams to meet all interconnection requirements and maintains accurate records of status and communications.
• Compiles and submits complete and accurate permit packages for residential and commercial solar projects and tracks those applications, proactively following up with the AHJ to ensure timely approval.
• Coordinates and prepares post-install documentation for inspections related to permitting and utility interconnections.
• Monitors and manages permitting and utility approval timelines to minimize delays in project execution; provides updates and results to internal project managers and external customers or commercial clients and initiates corrective actions if needed.
• Stays informed about regional utility interconnection requirements, application platforms and policy updates and applies that knowledge across utility service areas; monitors changes in permitting requirements to advise internal teams accordingly.
• Maintains the internal database of utility rate structures and alignment of rates entered in the proposal design software.
• Communicates with customers regarding questions about utility incentive programs.
• Help resolves customer questions regarding production issues by analyzing estimated monthly production values versus actual monthly production values.
• Assists the Design & Engineering Manager with special projects as needed.

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in solar interconnection or related utility coordination role
• High school diploma or GED required
• Associate’s degree in Renewable Energy, Electrical Technology, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Construction Management or similar discipline preferred
• Valid driver license required

• Solid understanding of how solar energy systems interact with the electrical grid
• Excellent knowledge of electrical system components
• Strong understanding of utility interconnection methods
• Familiarity with NEC 690, NEM programs and utility interconnection policies
• Experience working with local utilities, municipalities and permitting authorities
• Strong proficiency with utility portals, project management software and Google Workspace
• Exceptional attention to detail and organization skills
• Exceptional time-management skills
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
• Highly adaptable with a customer service mindset
• Proficient with project tracking tool like spreadsheets, CRM systems and project management software

Rate: $20-23/HR