Solar Construction Manager (Greater Chicagoland)

As a Solar Construction Manager at Solar Landscape, you will oversee all safety-related matters for your assigned projects. This includes collaborating with engineers, subcontractors, and field labor to ensure the execution of work aligns with project goals. You will regularly visit job sites, conduct quality assurance inspections, and manage labor crews effectively. Planning and executing self-performed work is also part of your role, along with tracking productivity and adjusting forecasts.

To qualify for the Solar Construction Manager position at Solar Landscape, candidates should possess over five years of relevant experience in solar construction projects, demonstrating a solid understanding of rooftop installations. Familiarity with ground-mount and carport commercial PV construction methods is preferred, along with excellent organizational and communication skills. Safety knowledge, especially around OSHA regulations, is essential, and having a valid driver's license with a willingness to travel to various job sites is a must.

Solar Landscape provides an exceptional benefits package for Solar Construction Managers, including competitive compensation, a 401(k) employer match, and comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance. Employees enjoy flexible paid time off, holiday PTO, healthy snacks, and daily farm-to-table meals prepared by an in-house chef. Additionally, opportunities for professional development, volunteer work, and company outings are part of our vibrant work culture.

At Solar Landscape, safety is a top priority for our Solar Construction Managers. They are responsible for conducting and documenting thorough safety inspections throughout the construction process. This includes ensuring that all tools and equipment meet safety requirements and that the work environment remains safe for all personnel involved. Adhering to OSHA regulations and fostering open communication about safety practices play a critical role in our project execution.

The work culture at Solar Landscape is one of camaraderie and innovation. Solar Construction Managers find themselves in a collaborative environment that encourages teamwork and fosters growth. With our state-of-the-art office and a gourmet kitchen at the heart of our workspace, employees come together to enjoy meals and share ideas. This culture not only enhances productivity but also values employee well-being, making it a great place to grow your career in renewable energy.

When answering this question, focus on specific solar projects you’ve managed or contributed to. Highlight your roles, the challenges you faced, and how you ensured the project's success. It’s important to illustrate your knowledge about different installation methods and your ability to handle logistics and coordination.

Discuss your approach to safety by mentioning your familiarity with OSHA guidelines and how you implement them. Give examples of safety inspections you've conducted and how you ensure all team members are trained and aware of safety protocols, emphasizing the importance of a safety-first mindset.

Mention specific project management tools or software you’ve used in past roles, such as Gantt charts, scheduling tools, or construction management platforms. Highlight how these tools helped you in planning, tracking progress, and communicating effectively with your team.

Choose a relevant project that highlights your problem-solving skills. Discuss the specific challenges you faced, such as weather delays or budget constraints, and detail the strategies you employed to mitigate these issues while keeping the project on track.

Communication is key in construction. Talk about your strategies, like regular meetings, check-ins, and using communication tools to keep everyone informed. Share instances where proactive communication helped avert potential problems or misunderstandings.

Explain the importance of quality assurance in your role. Discuss the specific methods you utilize, such as checklists, inspection protocols, or engaging with subcontractors to ensure all work meets the highest standards.

Highlight your experience in labor management, including how you assess crew productivity, delegate tasks based on strengths, and resolve conflicts that might arise. Emphasize the importance of motivation and team morale in achieving project goals.

Discuss how you assess various factors like project complexity, resource availability, and weather conditions when estimating timelines. Mention your experience with adjusting timelines based on real-time project developments.

Share your understanding of utility interconnections, including how you've navigated the application process and collaborated with utility companies. Highlight any successful connections you've facilitated in previous projects.

Express your passion for renewable energy and why Solar Landscape’s mission resonates with you. Discuss how the company’s culture, innovative projects, and commitment to community solar inspired you to join the team, and how you see your experience contributing to that mission.