Solar PV Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solar PV Design Manager

Company: Effective Energy Group

Location: Leicester, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Renewable Energy Operations / Engineering Management

Date Posted: 2026-05-07T12:42:19

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and lead the Solar PV design function, ensuring the production of high-quality, compliant, and efficient system designs.

• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of Solar PV Designers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.

• Conduct and review structural assessments and site surveys to identify and mitigate installation risks and challenges.

• Ensure adherence to all relevant industry compliance standards, including OFGEM, BEIS, and MCS, maintaining operational integrity.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and support a team of Solar PV Designers to deliver high-quality outputs and achieve team objectives.

• Review site surveys and oversee the production of accurate system designs using specialized software like Easy PV and CAD.

• Conduct and support virtual surveys with customers to identify potential risks and installation challenges, ensuring feasibility.

• Carry out and critically review structural assessments to ensure the integrity and safety of proposed solar PV installations.

• Oversee the production of detailed wiring diagrams for both solar PV and battery storage systems, ensuring clarity and compliance.

• Act as the primary point of escalation for complex design challenges and technical queries from the design team and other departments.

• Ensure all design work strictly adheres to compliance standards (OFGEM, BEIS, MCS) and internal quality benchmarks.

• Effectively manage team workloads, prioritize tasks, and ensure project deadlines are consistently met without compromising quality.

• Maintain and promote excellent customer communication standards across the entire design team.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, training, and professional development within the design function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a strong blend of technical design expertise in Solar PV and proven leadership capabilities to manage a team. The emphasis on compliance standards (OFGEM, BEIS, MCS) highlights the critical nature of accuracy and regulatory adherence in this operations role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Professional certificate in a relevant technical field.

Experience: Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in Solar PV design or a closely related technical field. Previous experience in a senior or supervisory role with direct line management responsibility is highly preferred.

Required Skills:

• Strong experience in Solar PV design, including system sizing, component selection, and performance estimation.

• Proven experience in a senior or supervisory role, with demonstrated line management responsibility and team development.

• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively under pressure, ensuring project timelines are met.

• Strong communication and leadership skills, with a proven ability to motivate, guide, and develop a technical team.

• Solid IT skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Word and specialized design software.

• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a strong work ethic and commitment to delivering results.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience using Easy PV or similar dedicated solar design software packages.

• Proficiency in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software for technical drawing and schematics.

• Background in electrical design, understanding of electrical principles, and application in renewable energy systems.

• Relevant renewable energy qualifications or certifications (e.g., from MCS, NAPIT, or similar bodies).

📝 Enhancement Note: While formal degree education isn't explicitly stated, the requirement for a "professional certificate" and 5-10 years of experience suggests a need for practical, hands-on expertise and potentially industry-specific accreditations. The preference for line management points to an operational leadership focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful Solar PV design projects, highlighting complexity and scale.

• Include examples of process optimization within design workflows, detailing efficiency improvements achieved.

• Present case studies of system implementation, emphasizing adherence to compliance and quality standards.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase documented design processes that ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with industry standards (OFGEM, BEIS, MCS).

• Detail methodologies for conducting and reviewing structural assessments and site surveys.

• Illustrate the creation and review of wiring diagrams for solar PV and battery storage systems, emphasizing clarity and technical accuracy.

• Evidence of implementing continuous improvement initiatives within design workflows and team training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only demonstrates technical design skills but also leadership in process management, team development, and adherence to stringent operational and regulatory requirements within the renewable energy sector.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Solar PV Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK, a competitive salary range is estimated between £45,000 - £60,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specific technical expertise, leadership responsibilities, and the hybrid work model.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.

• Opportunity to work in a growing and impactful industry focused on sustainability.

• Hybrid working model, offering flexibility between home and office.

• Professional development and training opportunities to enhance skills in renewable energy technologies.

• Contribution to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability goals.

• Supportive team environment with opportunities for career progression.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with a hybrid work arrangement that balances on-site collaboration and remote work flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is estimated based on UK market data for similar technical management roles in the renewable energy sector, considering the specified experience level and location. Benefits are inferred from typical offerings for full-time roles in established companies within this industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Effective Energy Group operates within the Building Services and Renewable Energy sectors, focusing on insulation solutions and increasingly, solar PV installations. This positions the company at the forefront of energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.

Company Size: The company is part of the Effective Energy Group, established in 2015. While specific team size isn't detailed, the mention of a "small team of designers" suggests a mid-sized operational department within a growing organization.

Founded: Established in 2015, Effective Energy Group has a relatively young but dynamic history, positioning itself as a modern provider of energy solutions.

Team Structure:

• The Solar PV Design team is described as "small," implying a close-knit unit where collaboration is key.

• The Design Manager will likely report to a Head of Operations, Technical Director, or similar senior leadership role.

Methodology:

• Data-driven design processes are implied through the use of specialized software (Easy PV, CAD) and the need for accurate system design and performance estimation.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be crucial for managing team workloads and meeting deadlines.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely encouraged to streamline the design process and enhance team productivity.

Company Website: https://careers.effective-energy.co.uk

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on insulation and solar PV indicates a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. The "small team" context suggests an environment where individual contributions are highly visible and impactful, with opportunities for direct influence on operational processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and technical design hierarchy. It involves direct team management and significant responsibility for project quality and team performance, bridging technical execution with operational oversight.

Reporting Structure: The Solar PV Design Manager will likely report to a senior operations leader (e.g., Head of Operations, Operations Director) and will directly manage a team of Solar PV Designers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the company's ability to deliver high-quality solar PV solutions efficiently and compliantly. Success in this role contributes to customer satisfaction, project profitability, and the company's reputation for quality in the renewable energy market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in renewable energy system design, battery storage integration, and advanced design software.

• Leadership Development: Potential to expand management responsibilities, leading larger teams or taking on broader operational oversight within the Effective Energy Group.

• Industry Specialization: Further certifications or training in emerging solar technologies, energy efficiency standards, or project management methodologies.

• Strategic Input: Opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of the company's renewable energy offerings and design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression from technical design to operational management, with opportunities to influence process improvement and strategic decision-making within a growing sustainability-focused company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as hybrid, indicating a mix of remote work and office-based collaboration. This suggests a modern work environment that values flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is 1 Boston Rd, Leicester, LE4 1AA. This location will serve as the hub for team meetings, collaborative work sessions, and access to necessary office resources.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment likely supports collaborative work with designers, potentially including access to shared design software platforms and meeting rooms for project reviews.

• Operations tools and technology available would include design software (Easy PV, CAD), communication platforms, and project management systems.

• Opportunities for interaction with the design team and other relevant departments (e.g., site surveys, sales) will be integral to the hybrid model.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are approximately 40 per week, allowing for flexibility within the hybrid model to accommodate personal needs alongside team and project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement is a key feature, suggesting an environment that trusts employees to manage their time effectively while ensuring team cohesion and project delivery through structured office presence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application, focusing on your Solar PV design experience and line management history.

• Technical Interview: Discussion of your technical expertise in Solar PV design, software proficiency (Easy PV, CAD), and understanding of structural assessments and wiring diagrams.

• Situational/Behavioral Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management approach, problem-solving skills, and how you handle pressure and complex technical queries.

• Portfolio Presentation: A key stage will involve presenting your portfolio, showcasing specific design projects, process improvements, and evidence of team leadership.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment with the company's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase instances where you've mentored, developed, or guided a design team. Quantify team performance improvements under your leadership.

• Detail Design Processes: Clearly articulate your design methodology, including how you ensure accuracy, compliance (OFGEM, BEIS, MCS), and efficiency. Use diagrams or workflow charts if possible.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Present case studies of challenging design projects or technical issues you resolved, detailing your approach and the positive outcomes.

• Quantify Impact: For any process improvements or design optimizations, provide metrics on time saved, cost reductions, or quality enhancements achieved.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience with Easy PV, CAD, structural assessments, and wiring diagrams, aligning your examples with the job description.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical design scenarios, including how you would approach a complex site survey or a demanding customer request.

• Practice articulating your leadership philosophy and how you foster a high-performing, collaborative design team.

• Think about how you would ensure compliance and quality across multiple projects simultaneously within a hybrid work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare detailed case studies demonstrating not just technical design capability but also leadership in process management, compliance, and team development within the renewable energy sector.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Easy PV: Essential for Solar PV system design, including module layout, inverter selection, and performance analysis. Proficiency is highly desirable.

• CAD Software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks): Used for producing detailed technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and schematics.

• Microsoft Word: For creating reports, documentation, and general communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Performance Dashboards: Likely used to track design team productivity, project timelines, and quality metrics.

• Compliance Tracking Tools: Potentially used to monitor adherence to OFGEM, BEIS, and MCS standards.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot - inferred): For managing customer interactions, project pipelines, and sales-to-design handoffs.

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Trello - inferred): For task assignment, workload management, and deadline tracking within the design team.

• Communication Platforms (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams): For team collaboration, quick queries, and information sharing in a hybrid environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Easy PV and CAD software is explicitly mentioned or strongly implied. Familiarity with typical project management and communication tools used in hybrid work environments would also be beneficial for seamless team integration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Accuracy: A strong emphasis on delivering precise, compliant, and high-quality designs that meet all regulatory and internal standards.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Driving continuous improvement in design processes to maximize output and meet project timelines effectively.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive team environment where members can share knowledge, resolve issues, and work together towards common goals.

• Innovation & Sustainability: A genuine passion for renewable energy and a commitment to contributing to a more sustainable future through effective design solutions.

• Customer Focus: Maintaining high standards of customer communication and ensuring client satisfaction through well-designed and well-executed projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with sales, site survey, and installation teams to ensure designs are practical and meet client needs.

• Process Review Culture: An environment likely encourages regular feedback and discussion on design processes to identify areas for improvement and share best practices.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share technical expertise, insights from site surveys, and solutions to design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on renewable energy and its establishment date suggest a culture that is likely dynamic, forward-thinking, and values both technical excellence and a commitment to environmental responsibility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Quality and Speed: The primary challenge will be ensuring meticulous design quality and compliance while meeting demanding project deadlines, especially with a growing client base.

• Team Development: Effectively mentoring and developing a team of designers, potentially with varying levels of experience, to ensure consistent high performance and adherence to standards.

• Adapting to Technology: Staying current with evolving Solar PV technologies, design software updates, and changing regulatory requirements (OFGEM, BEIS, MCS).

• Managing Hybrid Workflows: Optimizing team collaboration and oversight in a hybrid work environment to maintain efficiency and team cohesion.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications in solar PV design, battery storage integration, or electrical engineering for renewables.

• Leadership Training: Developing management and leadership skills through workshops, coaching, or formal training programs.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending events related to renewable energy, solar technology, and energy efficiency to stay abreast of industry trends and innovations.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within the Effective Energy Group or to mentor junior members of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex technical and operational challenges within a rapidly evolving industry, fostering significant professional growth in both technical expertise and leadership capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a team of technical designers. How do you ensure quality and manage performance?" (Focus on leadership style, performance metrics, and team development strategies.)

• "Walk me through your process for designing a Solar PV system, from initial site survey data to final wiring diagrams. What are the critical checkpoints for compliance?" (Detail your technical process, emphasizing Easy PV/CAD usage and regulatory adherence.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Effective Energy Group and the renewable energy sector?" (Showcase your passion for sustainability and research into the company's mission.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within a team, especially in a hybrid work setting?" (Provide examples of communication strategies and team-building activities.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly define the challenge, your approach (process, tools used), the solution (design details), and the quantifiable outcome (e.g., compliance achieved, efficiency gained, risks mitigated).

• Highlight Leadership: Explicitly point out instances where you managed, mentored, or improved the performance of your team within the presented projects.

• Emphasize Compliance: Clearly show how your designs met OFGEM, BEIS, and MCS standards, perhaps by showing relevant sections of documentation.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss the technical intricacies of your designs and your command of Easy PV, CAD, and other relevant tools.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Present your portfolio clearly, focusing on the most impactful examples relevant to the role's responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of Solar PV design principles, robust leadership and team management skills, and a commitment to operational excellence, compliance, and sustainability.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Solar PV Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Effective Energy Group careers portal.

• Tailor your CV: Emphasize your experience in Solar PV design, line management, and proficiency with Easy PV and CAD software. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest Solar PV design projects, focusing on those that demonstrate leadership, process improvement, and compliance management. Be ready to present specific case studies.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Effective Energy Group's mission, values, and recent projects in the renewable energy sector. Understand their commitment to sustainability and customer service.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to technical design, team leadership, problem-solving, and your motivation for joining the company.

⚠️ 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.