Senior Solar Crew Leader

Civic Works•Baltimore, MD

10d•$26 - $29•Hybrid

About The Position

Civic Works’ Energy Programs aim to make solar energy and energy efficiency accessible and affordable for residents in Baltimore City and Central Maryland. These programs help residents reduce energy bills, enhance home comfort and safety, and contribute positively to the environment. As a key component of Civic Works’ job training center, the programs also focus on providing access to quality careers in the clean energy sector. In 2023, Civic Works initiated a program to provide free solar installation and roofing services to low-income homeowners in Baltimore City. With established partnerships and funding, Civic Works plans to significantly expand this program to serve approximately 70 low-income households annually. The organization is seeking a Senior Solar Crew Leader to support the growth and execution of this program. Civic Works’ environmental initiatives have received recognition from The Baltimore Sun, The Washington Post, the US Conference of Mayors, and the Maryland Sustainable Growth Commission. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to a stronger, more resilient clean energy economy. More information about the residential energy programs can be found at http://energyprograms.civicworks.com.

Requirements

At least 5 years of solar installation experience.
Degree, certifications, and/or completed courses comparable with the curriculum taught at the Civic Works’ Center for Sustainable Careers.
Valid driver’s license.
Extensive technical experience, expertise, and/or industry knowledge of residential construction.
Proven experience leading installation crews in the field.
Experience training new solar installers.
Experience working directly with vendors or manufacturers for equipment issues and RMAs.
Expertise with or ability to quickly learn web-based software such as Google Mail, Google Drive, and Google Calendar.
Well-organized with the ability to prioritize, multitask, and work independently under pressure and tight deadlines.
Excellent verbal communication, interpersonal relations, and writing skills.
Ability to adhere to a strict guideline of keeping and maintaining confidential information.
Physical ability to perform the work, including lifting 50 lbs. or more, and performing in all types of weather conditions.
Comfortable working on roofs and ladders for extended periods.
Team player, experience as a leader, a self-starter, and a willingness to lead and initiate.
Ability to perform basic math.
Ability to prepare and submit accurate and reliable daily and quality control reports.
Ability to teach curriculum in a traditional and non-traditional manner.
Ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to customers in easy to understand terms.
Ability to read and interpret plans, schematics, and electrical diagrams.
Passion for renewable energy and an enthusiasm for energy efficiency and social justice.
Ability to build deep supporting relationships with program participants from historically marginalized communities.

Nice To Haves

2–3 years of experience as a Solar Crew Lead or similar leadership role.
Strong solar electrical knowledge and hands-on experience (AC/DC systems, inverters, troubleshooting).
Experience with battery storage systems (installation, commissioning, or troubleshooting).
Relevant certifications (e.g., OSHA, NABCEP PV Associate and/or PV Installer Professional).
Experience with flat roofs.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

Supervise solar installation crews on-site, setting daily expectations and implementing corrective action plans when performance metrics are not met.
Provide regular feedback and coaching to crew members, evaluating performance based on measurable outcomes.
Instruct and train trainees in On-the-Job Training (OJT) curriculum, offering technical assistance and recommending additional hands-on training modules.
Train, mentor, and develop crew members and OJTs to enhance their technical and professional skills, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment to support workforce development.
Act as the primary on-site contact for crew-related inquiries and escalations.
Review project plans and coordinate installation workflows with team members.
Lead residential solar installations, including the layout and assembly of solar modules/arrays, mounting hardware, and mechanical/structural mounting of racking, modules, and electrical equipment.
Set the pace of work to help trainees develop the proficiency and speed required by employer partners.
Oversee the quality of work performed by all installers on-site, ensuring adherence to industry standards and specific contract requirements.
Troubleshoot system issues during and after installation, identifying and resolving problems efficiently.
Conduct site assessments and provide feedback to improve installation processes.
Strive for a 100% pass rate on quality control and permit inspections, debriefing and acting on all received feedback.
Provide day-to-day oversight of required documentation for all installations, including job notes, completion forms, and photos.
Submit daily reports on completed work to the Solar Field Manager.
Ensure consistent compliance with safety standards (federal, state, and best practices) for all team members, both in the field and warehouse.
Stay informed about current industry trends, developments, standards, and practices.
Participate in educational programming or professional meetings as necessary.
Manage customer expectations on a daily basis, translating technical information into easily understandable terms.
Ensure customer satisfaction by responding professionally to all questions and concerns.
Respond professionally to questions and concerns from quality control inspectors.
Escalate issues to the Solar Field Manager as needed.
Handle customer complaints promptly, efficiently, and professionally.
Perform on-site troubleshooting and manage RMAs (Return Merchandise Authorizations) as required.
Manage Operations and Maintenance requests to ensure installed systems function correctly.
Facilitate annual O&M visits to maintain optimal system performance.
Inspect installed systems for quality assurance and submit timely pass/fail QC reports, coordinating follow-up actions.
Collaborate with vendors and manufacturers to process RMAs and resolve equipment-related issues.
Safely operate company vehicles for transporting crews, materials, and equipment.
Maintain adequate inventory of materials for each job and assigned vehicle.
Ensure vehicles, equipment, and tools are in good working and safe condition.
Notify the Solar Field Manager in advance regarding potential material supply needs.
Maintain and purchase materials as needed under supervision, submitting and coding all receipts daily.
Notify the Solar and Roofing Construction and Training Manager regarding potential professional repair needs.