Solar Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solar Design Manager

Company: Resonant Energy

Location: Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Engineering & Design Operations (Renewable Energy Sector)

Date Posted: September 4, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office, 2 days remote after initial training)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the technical design and engineering of solar photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for impactful projects serving non-profits and affordable housing developers.

• Lead the end-to-end design process, from initial site assessments and feasibility studies through the creation of comprehensive construction drawing sets.

• Ensure all designs adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC), local building codes, fire codes, and utility interconnection requirements, demonstrating a strong command of regulatory compliance.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Project Managers, architects, and third-party engineers, to integrate solar solutions seamlessly into diverse project types, including new construction and canopy installations.

• Utilize advanced design software such as AutoCAD, Scanifly, and Aurora to optimize system performance, create detailed layouts, and specify all necessary components.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a niche but growing sector of operations, focusing on the technical engineering and design aspects of renewable energy projects. The emphasis on community impact, environmental justice, and employee ownership suggests a strong mission-driven culture that will appeal to operations professionals seeking purpose beyond profit. The hybrid work model, with an initial in-office training period, indicates a structured onboarding process and a need for adaptability.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough site assessments and feasibility studies, utilizing tools like Scanifly drone systems to capture site imagery and gather critical data for design parameters.

• Produce detailed PV system engineering plan-sets using AutoCAD, including precise photovoltaic layouts, single-line diagrams (SLDs), and comprehensive system specifications for all components (panels, inverters, racking, etc.).

• Coordinate with third-party engineers and manufacturers to finalize design deliverables, ensuring alignment with project scope and technical requirements.

• Ensure strict compliance of all designs with applicable and upcoming Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) codes, standards, and regulations, including NEC, building, and fire codes.

• Support Project Managers by providing technical expertise during the installation phase, ensuring adherence to design specifications and resolving any on-site challenges.

• Review post-construction documentation to verify that projects were built in accordance with company and industry standards, contributing to quality assurance.

• Work collaboratively with clients' architects and building engineers on new construction projects to integrate solar designs effectively into building plans from the outset.

• Facilitate the interconnection process by gathering necessary site data and technical information, and by supporting the processing of interconnection agreements and permits with utility companies and inspectors.

• Maintain accurate and accessible design records within the company's database, ensuring efficient project documentation and knowledge management.

• Stay abreast of evolving solar technologies, industry trends, and code updates to continuously enhance design practices and improve efficiency.

• Provide design-related inputs and cost estimates to support the financial analysis of projects, bridging technical design with economic viability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design, project coordination, and regulatory compliance, typical for a design-focused operations role in the energy sector. The emphasis on supporting Project Managers and collaborating with external stakeholders underscores the importance of communication and cross-functional teamwork. The need to stay updated on industry trends points to a requirement for continuous learning and adaptability.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent industry experience.

• Preferred: NABCEP certificate. Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in solar PV and/or Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) electrical design and engineering.

• Experience working with new construction solar integration is preferred.

• Experience operating drones for site surveys is preferred, and a drone pilot's license is a plus. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD or equivalent CAD software for creating detailed engineering drawings.

• Expertise in solar design and shading analysis software, such as Scanifly or Aurora.

• Strong working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) as it applies to solar PV and BESS.

• Comprehensive understanding of building codes and fire codes relevant to solar installations.

• Ability to assess potential solar project sites, gather data, and determine design feasibility.

• Skill in developing photovoltaic layouts, single-line diagrams (SLDs), and system specifications.

• Experience coordinating with third-party engineers and manufacturers for design deliverables.

• Demonstrated ability to ensure design compliance with AHJ requirements and safety standards.

• Familiarity with utility interconnection processes and requirements.

• Proficiency in Salesforce and Google Workspace.

• Experience working within a MacOS/MacBook environment. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with battery energy storage systems (BESS) design principles.

• Experience in supporting the permitting process for electrical and building permits.

• Ability to collect and interpret accessible building structural information.

• Experience with drone operation and data capture for site audits.

• Native or fluent English proficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of formal education and practical experience, with a strong preference for specialized certifications and software proficiency. The inclusion of "Alignment with our Principles" and "Ability to Demonstrate our Standards of Excellence" suggests a culture that values not only technical skills but also behavioral competencies like ownership, collaboration, and adaptability.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of completed solar PV system designs, including technical drawings (e.g., CAD files, SLDs) and system specifications.

• Case studies detailing the process of designing solar systems for diverse project types (rooftop, ground-mount, canopy, new construction), highlighting problem-solving and optimization.

• Evidence of adherence to code compliance (NEC, building, fire codes) and regulatory requirements in design projects.

• Examples of coordination efforts with third-party engineers, architects, or utility companies to achieve design finalization and project progression.

• Documentation showcasing the use of specific design software (AutoCAD, Scanifly, Aurora) to achieve efficient and accurate design outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Workflow examples illustrating the end-to-end design process from initial site assessment to final construction drawing set generation.

• Documentation of how feedback from stakeholders (clients, architects, engineers) was incorporated into design revisions.

• Records of how project documentation was maintained and updated within a company database or CRM system.

• Examples of how industry trends or code updates were integrated into design methodologies to improve efficiency or compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations role focused on design, a portfolio demonstrating technical proficiency, process adherence, and problem-solving is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their ability to manage complex design workflows, ensure regulatory compliance, and collaborate effectively. The emphasis on process documentation suggests a need to articulate the methodology behind their design work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Total Compensation: $85,900 - $121,700 annually.

• Base Salary: $85,900 - $111,700 annually.

• Performance Bonus: Up to $10,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • 100% premium coverage for employee and children, 33% for spouse (Medical).
  • 100% premium coverage for employee (Dental).
  • Affordable vision plan with allowances for exams, glasses, and contacts.
  • $100 monthly reimbursement for mental health services.
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).

• Retirement:

  • 401k plan with an automatic 3% employer contribution.

• Time Off:

  • 13 days of annual vacation leave.
  • 8 days of annual sick leave.
  • 13 paid holidays annually.
  • Up to 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave.
  • 8 hours for volunteering, GOTV (Get Out The Vote), and protest.
  • 3 hours of paid voting leave.
  • Additional time off for jury duty, bereavement, etc.

• Growth & Development:

  • $500 annual professional development budget.

• Commuter & Lifestyle:

  • Monthly T-pass, Commuter Rail reimbursement, or bike allowance.
  • Option for an 8 am - 4 pm schedule.
  • 6 weeks of fully remote work flexibility annually.
  • "Friday Hard Stop" at 4 pm.

• Employee Participation (Eligible after 3 years):

  • Profit Sharing.

  • Unlimited PTO (trust-based).

  • Democratic Voice in company decision-making. Working Hours:

• Monday-Friday, 9 am - 5 pm, with a 1-hour lunch break.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• Standard 40-hour work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation package is robust, featuring a significant base salary range, a performance bonus, and comprehensive health benefits with high employer premium coverage. The extensive paid time off, including unique volunteer and voting leave, along with substantial parental leave, reflects a strong commitment to employee well-being. The long-term incentives like profit sharing and unlimited PTO after three years highlight a culture of shared success and trust. The salary range is competitive for a Solar Design Manager role with 2-5 years of experience in the Boston metropolitan area, considering the specialized nature of the industry and the company's mission.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Renewable Energy (Solar and Storage Development), focused on Environmental Justice and Community Impact.

Company Size: Likely small to medium-sized, given the employee-owned structure and focus on community impact, suggesting a close-knit and mission-driven environment.

Founded: Founded approximately 10 years ago, indicating a mature yet still growing organization with established processes and a proven track record, especially as the #1 solar provider for nonprofits in the Northeast.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the Senior Solar Design Manager, indicating a structured design team with clear leadership.

• Collaboration is expected with Project Managers, architects, building engineers, third-party engineers, and utility representatives, highlighting a cross-functional and externally engaged team dynamic.

• The employee-owned structure suggests a high degree of shared responsibility and a collaborative spirit across all levels of the organization. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using site audit data, drone imagery (Scanifly), and analysis software (Aurora) to inform and optimize solar system designs.

• Process Optimization: Commitment to improving design practices by staying current with industry trends, code updates, and technology.

• Community-Centric Development: All operations and design decisions are geared towards delivering clean energy benefits to under-invested communities, non-profits, and affordable housing developers.

• Operational Excellence: A core value, driving accuracy, efficiency, and holistic consideration of how work impacts others.

Company Website: resonant.energy

📝 Enhancement Note: Resonant Energy positions itself as a purpose-driven organization with a strong emphasis on social impact and employee ownership. This unique combination suggests a culture that values both technical expertise and a commitment to the company's mission. The industry focus on environmental justice and serving underserved communities will likely attract candidates who are motivated by more than just a technical challenge.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a mid-level position, requiring 2-5 years of specialized experience. It represents a key contributor role within the engineering and design function, with potential for advancement into more senior design or project management roles.

Reporting Structure: The Solar Design Manager reports directly to the Senior Solar Design Manager. This hierarchical structure allows for mentorship, guidance, and oversight of design quality and project execution.

Operations Impact: The designs produced by this role are foundational to the company's mission. They directly enable the development of solar and storage projects that provide clean energy, reduce costs for non-profits and affordable housing, and contribute to wealth creation in environmental justice communities. This role has a tangible impact on the company's ability to achieve its strategic goals and its social mission.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in various solar and BESS technologies, including new construction integration and canopy systems, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance to Senior Solar Design Manager or lead design efforts for larger, more complex projects.

• Cross-Functional Skill Building: Gain exposure to project management, utility relations, and financial analysis through close collaboration with other departments.

• Professional Development: Utilize the $500 annual professional development budget for courses, certifications (e.g., advanced NABCEP), or industry conferences to stay at the forefront of solar design innovation.

• Employee Ownership Path: Become eligible for profit sharing and a democratic voice in company decisions after three years, offering long-term career stability and influence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Solar Design Manager at Resonant Energy appears to offer significant opportunities for both technical mastery and broader professional development within a mission-aligned organization. The clear reporting structure and the company's commitment to growth suggest a supportive environment for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role operates within a standard office environment, located on the second floor of a building with elevator access. This suggests a professional and accessible workspace. The company also emphasizes a hybrid work model, blending in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): Boston, Massachusetts. This location provides access to a vibrant urban center with potential for networking and professional development within the clean energy sector. The hybrid schedule means employees will spend three days per week in the Boston office.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages in-office days for team collaboration, brainstorming, and direct interaction with colleagues. The emphasis on "Friday Hard Stop" and team events suggests a culture that values both productivity and social connection.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Employees will have access to necessary technology, including MacBooks, and will utilize specialized software like AutoCAD, Scanifly, and Aurora, as well as Salesforce and Google Workspace.

• Team Interaction: The office setting facilitates direct communication and teamwork with the Senior Solar Design Manager and other members of the design and project management teams.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 am - 5 pm) with a 1-hour lunch.

• Flexibility is offered with an optional 8 am - 4 pm schedule.

• Occasional evening and weekend work may be required, typical for project-driven roles.

• A significant portion of the work (2 days/week) can be performed remotely after the initial 3-month in-office training period, offering a balance between structured collaboration and personal flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at Resonant Energy aims to balance the benefits of in-office collaboration and team cohesion with the flexibility of remote work. The emphasis on specific office days and the structured training period indicates a deliberate approach to fostering team integration and ensuring operational effectiveness.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Focus on resume and cover letter, assessing alignment with core qualifications, experience, and company values.

• Technical Screening/Interview: Likely conducted by the Senior Solar Design Manager or a lead engineer to evaluate technical design skills, software proficiency (AutoCAD, Scanifly, Aurora), and understanding of NEC and building codes. Expect scenario-based questions related to design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their work, showcasing design projects, problem-solving approaches, and adherence to standards. This is a critical step for demonstrating practical application of skills.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussions focused on alignment with Resonant Energy's core principles (Community, Equity, Excellence, Innovation, Integrity, Culture) and demonstrated ability to embody company standards of excellence (Ownership, Collaboration, Adaptability, Operational Excellence, Growth).

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or a panel interview to assess overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in solar PV design, code compliance, and problem-solving.

• Highlight Process: Clearly articulate your design methodology, from site assessment to final drawings. Explain the rationale behind key design decisions.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Detail any significant design challenges you encountered (e.g., site constraints, code conflicts) and how you effectively resolved them.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the benefits of your designs (e.g., system efficiency, cost savings, energy production estimates).

• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with AutoCAD, Scanifly, Aurora, and other relevant tools.

• Align with Company Values: Frame your project examples to reflect Resonant Energy's commitment to community, equity, and operational excellence.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge, such as designing a system for a specific type of roof or a complex site, requiring you to apply NEC and code knowledge.

• Code Compliance Questions: Expect detailed questions about specific NEC articles or building code requirements relevant to solar installations.

• Software Proficiency Test: Some companies may include a brief practical test or simulation using design software.

• Process Improvement Idea: Be ready to discuss how you would approach improving a specific aspect of the design process or workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a rigorous evaluation of both technical capabilities and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare to not only demonstrate their design expertise but also their alignment with Resonant Energy's mission-driven approach and core values. A well-prepared portfolio and thoughtful responses to behavioral questions will be key differentiators.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed engineering drawings, layouts, and construction plan-sets. Proficiency in this CAD software is non-negotiable for producing accurate technical documentation.

• Scanifly: Utilized for site surveys, capturing aerial imagery with drones, and performing initial shading analysis to inform system design and optimize component placement.

• Aurora Solar: A comprehensive platform for solar design, production modeling, and proposal generation, likely used for detailed system performance analysis and optimization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Salesforce: Used for customer relationship management, tracking project pipelines, and potentially managing design project workflows and client interactions.

• Google Workspace: Standard suite for email (Gmail), document creation (Docs), spreadsheets (Sheets), presentations (Slides), and collaboration (Drive), integral to daily operations and team communication.

CRM & Automation:

• Salesforce: Serves as the primary CRM, managing client data, project status, and sales/design team interactions.

• Scanifly/Aurora (Integrated Features): These design platforms often include features for generating reports on system performance, energy production estimates, and design compliance, which can feed into broader project reporting.

• Project Management Tools (Implicit): While not explicitly named, the role's responsibilities suggest the use of internal or external project management tools for tracking design tasks, deadlines, and cross-functional dependencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard design software like AutoCAD, Scanifly, and Aurora is paramount. The integration of Salesforce and Google Workspace highlights the need for strong data management and collaboration skills within a digital ecosystem. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and efficiency with these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Community & Equity: A foundational value, driving the company's mission to serve environmental justice communities. This translates to a design approach that prioritizes accessibility and benefits for these groups.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, accurate, and code-compliant designs that ensure project success and client satisfaction. This means meticulous attention to detail and a drive for optimal performance.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions to expand solar access and overcome design challenges, particularly in complex or under-invested areas. This involves staying ahead of industry trends and adopting new technologies.

• Integrity: Transparency in communication, ethical practices, and viewing profit as a means to amplify social and environmental impact. This fosters trust internally and externally.

• Culture (Balance & Growth): A value placed on work-life balance, mutual support, and investing in team members' professional development, creating a sustainable and engaging work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The design team works closely with Project Managers, sales, and external partners (architects, engineers), requiring strong communication and the ability to translate technical designs into actionable plans for diverse stakeholders.

• Process Improvement Focus: A culture that encourages feedback and continuous refinement of design workflows and methodologies to enhance efficiency and quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are expected to share insights, best practices, and learnings related to solar design, codes, and technologies to foster collective growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Resonant Energy's culture is deeply intertwined with its mission. Candidates should expect an environment that values purpose, collaboration, and continuous improvement, alongside technical competence. The emphasis on equity and community means that design decisions are viewed through a lens of social impact.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Site Constraints: Designing systems for diverse and sometimes challenging sites (e.g., historical buildings, complex roof structures, limited ground space) requiring creative engineering solutions.

• Evolving Codes & Technologies: Keeping pace with frequent updates to NEC, building codes, and rapid advancements in solar PV and BESS technologies to ensure designs remain compliant and competitive.

• Interconnection Hurdles: Navigating the intricate and sometimes lengthy processes of utility interconnection agreements and permitting across various jurisdictions.

• Balancing Design Efficiency with Impact: Meeting aggressive project timelines while ensuring the highest standards of design quality and community benefit.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Specialization: Gaining expertise in specific areas like BESS integration, new construction solar, or advanced shading analysis through project experience and professional development.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing advanced certifications like NABCEP PV Design Specialist or similar credentials to enhance professional standing and technical knowledge.

• Mentorship and Leadership: Opportunities to learn from senior design staff and potentially mentor junior team members as experience grows.

• Exposure to Mission-Driven Projects: Contributing to projects that have a direct positive impact on underserved communities, offering intrinsic professional fulfillment.

• Employee Ownership Program: Long-term engagement opportunities through profit sharing and a voice in company governance, fostering a sense of partnership and shared success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth within a specialized and impactful field. Candidates who are proactive in learning and adaptable to change will find ample room to develop their expertise and contribute meaningfully to Resonant Energy's mission.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to overcome a significant design challenge on a solar project. What was the challenge, how did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses problem-solving, technical judgment, and results orientation).

• "How do you ensure your solar designs comply with the latest NEC and local building codes, especially when integrating with new construction?" (Tests knowledge of regulations and ability to apply them in practice).

• "Walk me through your process for creating a comprehensive set of construction drawings for a rooftop solar PV system." (Evaluates understanding of design workflows and documentation standards). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Resonant Energy's mission of building wealth in environmental justice communities through solar and storage?" (Assesses alignment with company values and motivation).

• "How do you approach collaboration with architects, engineers, and project managers who may have different priorities or levels of technical understanding?" (Gauges teamwork and communication skills).

• "Describe a situation where you had to balance project deadlines with the need for meticulous design accuracy. How did you manage this?" (Evaluates operational excellence and time management). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the key challenges, your design approach, the solutions implemented, and the final outcome (e.g., system performance, code compliance achieved).

• Highlight Key Drawings: Be prepared to walk through specific sections of your design drawings (e.g., PV layout, SLD) and explain critical elements.

• Emphasize Software Use: Discuss how you leveraged AutoCAD, Scanifly, and Aurora to achieve specific design goals or efficiencies.

• Connect to Values: Where applicable, subtly link your project contributions to Resonant Energy's core values like community impact or innovation.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, code interpretations, and technical specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their technical expertise through specific project examples and demonstrate a strong understanding of the company's mission. A well-prepared portfolio presentation that highlights problem-solving, code compliance, and collaborative efforts will be crucial for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience in solar PV design, BESS, AutoCAD, Scanifly, Aurora, NEC compliance, and any relevant certifications (e.g., NABCEP). Quantify achievements whenever possible, such as systems designed or efficiency improvements implemented.

• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Express your enthusiasm for Resonant Energy's mission, specifically mentioning your interest in their work with environmental justice communities. Clearly articulate how your 2+ years of design experience aligns with the role's requirements and your understanding of the company's values.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your most relevant and impactful solar design projects. Be ready to present them, focusing on your process, problem-solving skills, adherence to codes, and use of design software. Ensure you can explain your design decisions clearly and concisely.

• Research Resonant Energy: Familiarize yourself with their projects, mission statement, and company culture. Understand their position as a leader in solar for nonprofits and their commitment to employee ownership.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.