Senior Manager - (Must be in Chicagoland area)

Energy Solutions - USA•Chicago, IL

8d•$105,000 - $137,000•Remote

About The Position

Energy Solutions is seeking a Senior Manager to lead the planning, administration, and performance of major energy-efficiency programs. The role sets strategic direction and drives operational and financial performance for a defined book of business, advancing program excellence and sustained business growth. The position also builds organizational capability by developing staff, establishing and evolving implementation standards, shaping budgeting practices, and working across functions to develop accurate energy-savings forecasts. The Senior Manager partners with senior leadership on program planning and delivery frameworks, oversees contract management, maintains quality assurance and quality control standards, and drives continuous improvement. The role leads program and client oversight in the Chicago/Midwest region and is intended for a candidate located in the Chicagoland area, preferably with a strong understanding of the region’s business landscape. Energy Solutions operates as a predominantly remote workforce, with office assignments for employees residing within 40 miles of an office (except New York); in-office attendance requirements may vary by team. The salary range is $105,000 to $137,000, with target compensation of $105,000 to $123,300 based on experience and qualifications. Compensation is commensurate with experience and includes a generous retirement package. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, other pre-tax contribution plans, and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Sustainability, Economics, Business Administration, Public Policy, or a related discipline.
Ten or more years of progressively responsible experience leading and managing complex programs, solution areas, or cross-functional initiatives within energy efficiency, utilities, sustainability, or a related regulated industry.
Five or more years of experience leading teams, initiatives, or programs with accountability for delivery outcomes, stakeholder alignment, and performance.
Deep understanding of Demand Side Management energy-efficiency program design, delivery models, and regulatory frameworks, including savings, cost-effectiveness, and compliance targets.
Understanding of market transformation principles and how program strategies influence long-term technology adoption and market behavior.
Understanding of midstream program design and delivery, including engagement with distributors, manufacturers, and retailers to influence stocking practices and adoption of efficient products.
Demonstrated ability to lead and advance program management and service-delivery practices in complex program environments.
Proven ability to manage financial performance, including budgets, forecasts, and profitability within a defined solution area.
Ability to manage client relationships and ensure alignment on program goals, delivery expectations, and performance outcomes.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly and influence stakeholders at multiple levels.
Ability to assess risks, make strategic decisions, and guide execution in complex and ambiguous situations.
Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret data, market trends, and performance results to inform strategy and operational decisions.
Experience developing executive-level presentations, client-facing deliverables, and performance dashboards.
Ability to anticipate risks, evaluate trade-offs, and recommend solutions in high-impact scenarios.
Strong stakeholder-management skills, including influencing without authority and sustaining productive client relationships.
Ability to manage subcontractors and delivery partners in alignment with program requirements, budgets, and performance goals.
Candidate must be located in the Chicagoland area; the posting also seeks candidates in the Chicago/Midwest area, preferably with a strong understanding of the region’s business landscape.

Responsibilities

Establish and evolve implementation frameworks, operating procedures, and quality standards to support scalable and repeatable program success.
Partner with Directors and cross-functional leaders to integrate practice-level priorities and coordinate execution across teams.
Design and implement program-level operational strategies to improve resource allocation, delivery efficiency, and execution quality.
Analyze program performance trends, market conditions, and risks to inform strategic adjustments and continuous improvement.
Identify and advance opportunities to enhance program capabilities and service offerings and increase the market impact of energy-efficiency initiatives.
Develop and review cost estimates, staffing plans, and delivery timelines for client engagements and proposals.
Partner with Directors and Finance to forecast, monitor, and improve profitability across the solution area.
Lead contract management to ensure program budgets, performance targets, and savings goals are met.
Define and enforce roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations, and hold staff accountable for outcomes.
Develop and mentor staff and Project Managers through coaching, knowledge transfer, and structured performance feedback.
Build program capability by coaching teams, embedding best practices, and reinforcing operational standards.
Develop and manage strategic client relationships in the defined region and advise clients on program performance, risks, opportunities, and strategic direction.
Drive business development by leading or contributing to proposals, scopes of work, and client presentations.
Identify and progress growth opportunities in collaboration with the Senior Director, who retains final contracting authority.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, contractual obligations, and internal policies across programs.
Monitor program performance using KPIs, budgets, and delivery metrics to ensure quality and timeliness.
Design and implement risk-mitigation strategies and drive continuous improvement across program operations.
Manage subcontractors and delivery partners to align with program requirements, budgets, and performance goals.