Project Manager (Solar)

Position: Project Manager, Construction - DG Solar and BESS (Renewables) Location: Chicago, IL strongly preferred, exceptional IL based candidates considered Hybrid Company Overview Our client is an emerging IPP in the renewable energy space. Well-funded and building an executive team focused on accelerating the energy transition market by developing, acquiring, owning, and operating DG solar projects across the US. The Role The Project Manager will be responsible for delivering multiple solar projects from Notice to Proceed (NTP) through commercial operation and handover to O&M. Reporting to the Director of Construction, this individual will own day-to-day cost and schedule control, coordinate self-perform and subcontracted work, and serve as a key point of contact between internal teams, field crews, and external stakeholders. The ideal candidate has a strong EPC or vertical construction background, is comfortable managing several concurrent projects, and takes full ownership of the critical path, budget, and risk on each job. Core Responsibilities Manage solar projects from NTP / mobilization through commissioning and turnover to O&M, ensuring safety, quality, cost, and schedule targets are achieved. Develop, maintain, and update detailed project schedules; identify and manage the critical path, and proactively mitigate delays and risks. Own day-to-day cost control: track budgets, change orders, and contingencies; prepare clear, well-justified change order requests in coordination with leadership. Coordinate internal resources and external stakeholders including engineers, field crews, subcontractors, utilities, and AHJs. Oversee site mobilization, construction progress, and punchlist closeout, spending regular time in the field to verify work and resolve issues. Maintain project documentation, reporting, and updates in the company’s systems (ERP/CRM, PM tools, etc.), providing clear status updates to management. Support contract administration, including EPC and subcontract agreements, in coordination with internal commercial and legal resources. Serve as a key interface to Asset Management and O&M teams to ensure smooth handover and long-term asset performance. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent field experience. 5+ years of project management experience in construction, with strong preference for EPC or vertical construction backgrounds (e.g., commercial/industrial, infrastructure). Solar project experience is a plus but not strictly required; must be comfortable getting into the technical and constructability details. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and control cost and schedule at a detailed level. Proficiency with project management software and tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, Procore, or similar), as well as Excel and standard reporting workflows. Strong communication skills and comfort working with field teams, subcontractors, and senior leadership. Track record of owning change orders, risk mitigation, and critical path management in a fast-paced environment. Based in (or willing to relocate to) the Chicago metro area, with the ability to work a hybrid schedule and visit project sites regularly. #J-18808-Ljbffr