Job DescriptionJob DescriptionWest Virginia Energy Program Manager1 Position Overview
Location: Must be local to Charleston, WV area (within 1 hour commute)
Employment Type: Full-time, Hybrid (minimum 1 day per week in Charleston office)
ProtoGen, Inc. seeks a dedicated Program Manager to lead renewable energy program implementation services in West Virginia. This position is critical to delivering solar energy solutions to West Virginia's most vulnerable residents. ProtoGen offers an exceptional opportunity to make a lasting impact on West Virginia's energy future.
2 Program BackgroundThe West Virginia energy program aims to install solar infrastructure across the state. This four-year initiative focuses on reducing energy burdens for low- and moderate-income (LMI) communities while fostering economic development and enhancing grid reliability throughout West Virginia. The Program Manager will report to the Program Director.
3 Location RequirementCandidates must be located within 1 hour of Charleston, WV, and able to maintain regular presence at our local office location.
4 Key Responsibilities
4.1 Program Development & Strategic Planning- Lead comprehensive program design and implementation from concept through full deployment
- Develop detailed project scopes, budgets, schedules, and resource allocation plans for solar installations
- Establish program policies, procedures, and quality standards aligned with program requirements
- Conduct market assessments and feasibility studies to inform program strategy
- Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation and progress reporting systems
- Manage the hiring of key personnel for program deployment
- Lead teams of project staff toward the implementation of program goals
4.2 Grant & Financial Management- Oversee the complete grant lifecycle including application review, evaluation, award processing, and contract development
- Monitor financial performance, track expenses, and implement cost-saving measures where appropriate
- Coordinate with financial institutions and lenders to structure innovative financing solutions
- Ensure compliance with federal and state financial reporting requirements including Davis-Bacon and Build America/Buy America provisions
4.3 Stakeholder Coordination & Partnership Development- Serve as primary liaison between utilities, contractors, engineers, suppliers, and program participants
- Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with local governments, community organizations, and industry partners
- Coordinate contractor selection, vetting, professional development, and ongoing oversight
- Facilitate regular stakeholder meetings and provide progress updates to all parties
- Manage relationships with Community Development Financial Institutions and financing partners
4.4 Technical Project Oversight- Coordinate technical design reviews and ensure adherence to engineering standards and specifications
- Oversee interconnection application processes and utility coordination procedures
- Manage procurement of solar panels, inverters, and related equipment ensuring quality standards are met
- Coordinate site evaluations, due diligence assessments, and technical feasibility reviews
- Implement comprehensive quality control programs including pre- and post-installation inspections
4.5 Compliance & Risk Management- Ensure full adherence to local, state, and federal regulations including program requirements
- Develop and implement risk identification and mitigation strategies for program delivery
- Maintain comprehensive compliance documentation and audit trails
- Coordinate consumer protection measures and quality assurance processes
4.6 Community Engagement & Education- Design and execute community outreach strategies to maximize program participation
- Lead and coordinate the development of educational materials, factsheets, toolkits, and training resources for diverse audiences
- Facilitate community forums and public information sessions
- Coordinate workforce development initiatives and training programs with local educational institutions
- Create and manage communication strategies for program promotion and stakeholder engagement
5 Required Qualifications
5.1 Education & Experience- Bachelor's degree in business, construction management, public administration, engineering, or related field (additional professional experience may substitute on year-for-year basis)
- Minimum 3 years of experience developing, managing, and refining programs
- Minimum 3 years of experience in renewable energy (solar preferred), sustainability initiatives, or environmental programs focused on emissions reductions
- Demonstrated passion for public sector work and community impact
5.2 Technical Skills & Knowledge- Excellent time management and organizational abilities
- Outstanding written, oral, and presentation communication skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Proficiency with project management software and database systems
- Understanding of grant administration and compliance requirements
5.3 Preferred Qualifications- Advanced degree in business, construction management, public administration, engineering, or related field
- Experience managing project budgets ranging from $500K to $15M+ in cumulative program value
- Knowledge of federal and state policies, procedures, and reporting requirements
- Experience with energy financing, consumer protections, or quality assurance programs
- Familiarity with solar PV technology, grid interconnection processes, and utility operations
- Experience working with low-income communities and energy assistance programs
6 What We Offer
- Competitive salary with comprehensive benefits package
- Opportunity to make significant impact on West Virginias energy future
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Collaborative work environment with industry-leading experts
- Hybrid work arrangement with flexible scheduling
- Position with established momentum - ProtoGen has already built strong relationships and project pipeline in West Virginia
7 Application RequirementsInterested candidates must submit:
- Comprehensive cover letter detailing relevant experience and achievements in program management and renewable energy
- Detailed resume demonstrating background in required areas
- Three professional references
7.1 Additional InformationThis position is subject to a 90-day probationary period for new hires.
8 About ProtoGen, Inc.ProtoGen is a leading distributed energy consulting firm specializing in sustainable and resilient energy solutions. Founded with a mission to advance energy security and resiliency by creating alignment among energy stakeholders, we bring together deep technical expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and exceptional educational skills to serve our diverse client base.
8.1 Our Core Services:- Energy project lifecycle management from conceptual development through operations and maintenance
- Feasibility studies, design and engineering, and project management
- Workforce development and training program administration
- Curriculum design and learning management system development
- Technical assistance and consulting for complex energy systems
8.2 Our Expertise:We serve clients across multiple sectors including commercial & industrial companies, real estate developers, educational institutions, national laboratories, federal agencies, state energy offices, and municipal and tribal governments. Our team combines decades of experience in microgrids, distributed energy resources, solar PV systems, energy storage, and grid integration technologies.
8.3 What Sets Us Apart:We offer a rare combination in our industry: deep technical expertise and experience, strong leadership and communication skills, and the ability to educate and bring along stakeholders. Our approach focuses on transparency, community empowerment, and delivering measurable results.
8.4 Our Values:
- Transparency: Building trust through open communication and honest assessments
- Empowerment: Helping communities enhance sustainability, resilience, and energy equity
- Innovation: Advancing cutting-edge technologies and market solutions
- Collaboration: Creating alignment among diverse energy stakeholders
9 Equal Opportunity EmployerProtoGen, Inc. is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Flexible work from home options available.
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