Program Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Program Manager –Distributed Generation Rebates

Location: Oak Brook, IL (Chicagoland area) — Hybrid (3 days in Office)

 

About the Role

We are seeking a Solar Program Manager to join our Energy Management team. This role leads the design, implementation, delivery, and continuous improvement of the DG Rebates program , with a focus on advancing equitable access to renewable energy for income‐eligible households and communities.

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

 

What You’ll Do – Implement the Program

· Achieve annual program participation, savings, budget, and equity objectives.

· Achieve client satisfaction score of 9 / 10 or better.

· Achieve program satisfaction score of 8.5 / 10 or better.

· Manage full lifecycle implementation of the program.

· Interpret and operationalize state program rules, incentive structures, and policy changes.

· Build strong relationships with Approved Vendors, CBOs, developers, and market actors.

· Provide training, office hours, technical support, and resource development.

· Manage application review, income‐eligibility processes, budget tracking, and reporting.

· Prepare weekly updates,  monthly reports, and quarterly presentations.

· Ensure accuracy of calculations of energy production estimates and incentive eligibility.

· Supervise 2–5 FTEs. Could expand

· At least bi-weekly 1x1s with staff.

· Complete bi-annual staff reviews.

· Performance manages low performers; recognize high performance

· Direct with Engineering, QA/QC, and Evaluation teams.

· Lead annual planning and budgeting .

 

What is Required

· Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Public Policy, Sustainability, Business, or related field

· 5+ years' experience with  solar programs or Utility Energy Efficiency rebate/incentive programs. Experience in Energy Efficiency programs, renewable energy policy, and/or program administration.   Experience with  income‐qualified programs or Diversity-focused initiatives.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

·   Program Financial Management, budgeting, forecasting etc. KPI management and reporting. 

· Leadership and staff management experience . (Direct reports). Strong Team Management competency

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office, EXCEL, power points etc 

· Ability to interpret and apply policy to operations .

· Precise  Client Management abilities (with utility) 

 

What is Preferred (nice to have) 

· Strong familiarity with  solar PV development .

· Familiarity with Illinois Solar for All and Illinois Shines.

· Experience with CRM and project tracking platforms.

· Knowledge of  solar economics and incentive modeling.

· Local travel up to 10%.