Solar Programs Associate - Strategy and Outreach (Hybrid - Chicago, IL)

Interested in joining a growing company where you will work with talented colleagues, enhance a supportive and energetic culture, and be part of the climate solution? At Energy Solutions, we focus on the big impacts. And we believe that market-based programs can be a powerful force to deliver large-scale energy, carbon, and water-use savings. Since 1995, we’ve harnessed that power to offer proven, performance-based solutions for our utility, government, and institutional customers. Energy Solutions is looking for a Solar Programs Associate to execute and own a defined segment of program operations within the Energy Solutions program portfolio. This role supports day-to-day workflow performance for assigned programs, including rebate processing and incentive claims, ensuring timely processing and issue resolution, data integrity, and compliance with program rules and internal controls.   The Solar Programs Associate operates under the general supervision of a Project Manager and is responsible for completing tasks accurately, efficiently, and in alignment with established standard operations procedures (SOPs)  and quality standards. Drawing on working knowledge of program operations, the Associate organizes and prioritizes work, troubleshoots routine issues within defined guidelines, and provides guidance on procedural questions while escalating more complex issues appropriately.   Responsibilities include but are not limited to:      Manage application queues and shared inboxes to ensure claims and participant inquiries are addressed in accordance with documented SOPs   Review, validate, and process applications and claims in accordance with program rules, eligibility criteria, and SOPs   Escalate non-routine issues, complaints, or exceptions to the Project Manager as appropriate   Maintain accurate records and documentation, in alignment with program guidelines and compliance requirements, in program systems, databases, or CRMs   Support outreach activities including event preparation, presentation preparation, occasional event attendance and outreach inquiries   Respond to participant, customer, contractor, and trade ally emails, phone calls, and inquiries regarding application status, program guidelines, or other questions, professionally and promptly   Apply and communicate program rules, procedures, and eligibility requirements using established guidance to support submission quality and reduce rework   Support working relationships with distributors, contractors, and other stakeholders through phone, or virtual interactions   Resolve routine issues within established guidelines and escalate complex participant or technical questions when needed. Apply program guidelines and SOPs to resolve disputes or address non ‑ compliance   Document investigations and outcomes, including drafting responses or correspondence based on template responses, provided in program Service Level Agreement(s) (SLAs), as needed   Compile, validate, and organize program data for internal review and client reporting. Proofread deliverables and correct basic errors before they go out.   Review work for accuracy and completeness before submission and flag issues to the Project Manager   Review program information and gather references to support process improvements   Execute data validation and quality assurance activities for assigned workflows using defined checklists and processes   Track and report discrepancies to support consistency and reduce rework   Identify and suggest improvements to program procedures and operational workflows to enhance efficiency   Apply and update established processes and documentation to support accuracy and consistency   Maintain detailed documentation to support audits, reporting, and program transparency   Support scheduling, resource coordination, and administrative project activities as needed   Follow established program controls to support compliance, fraud prevention, and risk management   Minimum Qualifications:     Bachelor's degree in project management or related field required or High School degree plus 2 years’ experience   Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to answer stakeholder and program participant inquiries received over email or calls concisely, courteously, and professionally   Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)   Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to identify issues and escalate when needed   Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple tasks and deadlines and respond to internal communication from peers and managers promptly   The salary range for this role is $60,000 to $70,000, with a target compensation of $60,000 to $66,500 based on experience and qualifications.   Compensation is commensurate with experience and includes a generous retirement package. Energy Solutions provides an excellent benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, other pre-tax contribution plans and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). AI Use At Energy Solutions we believe in the importance of authentic interactions and equitable opportunities. We base our candidate selection on one’s own skills, knowledge, and experience. To ensure the integrity and fairness of our interview process, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) or other means to generate or assist with responses during interviews is strictly prohibited. This practice supports our commitment to create a transparent and equitable space where skills, knowledge and experience can truly shine. Equal Opportunity Employer Energy Solutions is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. We afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion,