Utility Operations Manager
2 days ago
Springfield
Job Description At QE Solar, we are passionate about driving the future of renewable energy by delivering industry-leading operations and maintenance (O&M) services for commercial and utility-scale solar and battery storage systems. We take pride in maximizing asset performance, ensuring compliance, and delivering measurable value to our clients. As our footprint grows, we are seeking a Solar Utility Manager to oversee utility-scale solar operations, ensuring reliable production, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient field execution. The Solar Utility Manager will be responsible for managing utility-scale solar projects across QE Solar’s portfolio. This role combines technical expertise, operational leadership, and client engagement. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-driven, and experienced in leading teams to achieve optimal energy generation and uptime across multiple assets. Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities: • Operational Leadership, • Oversee daily operations and maintenance of utility-scale solar and storage assets., • Oversite and compliance tracking of scheduling of preventive and corrective maintenance, inspections, and performance testing., • Ensure all assets meet contractual availability and performance guarantees., • Compliance & Safety, • Maintain adherence to OSHA, NERC, and utility-level safety and compliance standards., • Develop, implement, and enforce site safety protocols., • Monitor and report on environmental and regulatory compliance., • Team & Vendor Management, • Recruiting and Onboarding of New plant managers and Technicians, • Lead and develop plant managers, field technicians, and subcontractor teams., • Coordinate with supply chain and procurement for spare parts, tools, and fleet logistics., • Manage vendor relationships to ensure timely and cost-effective service delivery., • Client Engagement & Reporting, • Serve as technical point of contact for utility-scale customers and stakeholders., • Deliver clear, accurate notifications and troubleshooting assistance on outages, and KPIs., • Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance client satisfaction., • Identify trends in asset performance and recommend optimization strategies., • Participate in long-term planning for fleet expansion, upgrades, and resource allocation., • Provide input on budget forecasting, cost controls, and contract compliance. Knowledge: • Strong knowledge of solar PV systems, mv/hv, Bess Technologies, SCADA monitoring, and power plant operations., • Working knowledge of NERC, OSHA, and environmental compliance standards., • Proven leadership skills with experience managing field teams and subcontractors., • Strong communication and client relationship management skills. In addition to the specific work experience and skills, QE Solar also seeks someone with the qualities listed below: • Exceptional work ethic, with strong values and principles, • Able to supervise and coach others in a matrix work environment, • Willingness to work irregular schedules to meet client/project deadlines, • Exceptionally strong communication skills, both written and verbal, interpersonal, and teamwork skills, • A firm commitment to client, team, and organization success, • Flexible and accommodating and able to go above and beyond the basic expectations when required, • High follow-up and organizational skills, • Detailed-oriented, with attention to detail for tasks that have zero tolerance for errors, • Curiosity, • Candor and transparency Physical Requirements: Ability to lift 50 pounds regularly Ability to climb ladders (a-frame, ship-style, movable or fixed) Ability to move safely over uneven terrain Ability to sit or drive for prolonged periods Ability to safely climb ladders while carrying 50 pounds Ability to work in extreme weather Preferred Experience: 2+ years of experience in utility-scale solar, wind, or power generation. QE Solar offers incredible benefits! We enjoy: • 100% paid employee premium on health benefits; additional dependents at low costs and great plans for Health, Dental, Vision, FSA or HSA, • Wellbeing and Employee Assistance, • Perks at Work Marketplace for discounts on gym memberships, classes, tech, vacations, tickets, and more, • Family Building and Adoption Assistance Programs, • Learning & Development Opportunities Workplace Type: Onsite Salary Range: $90,000-$120,000 per year Employment Type: Full-time Location: Remote Statement to all Third-Party Agencies and Similar Organizations: QE Solar accepts resumes only from contracted recruiting agencies with formal service agreements. Please do not send unsolicited resumes or outreach emails to our QE Solar employees, hiring managers, or team members without expressed consent or contract for services. QE Solar is not responsible for any fees or charges associated with unsolicited resumes or services.