Field Operations Manager - Commercial/Industrial Solar
POSITION SUMMARY:
Colite Technologies designs and delivers a portfolio of environmentally friendly solutions that support corporate sustainability goals and objectives. The portfolio includes commercial & industrial solar power systems, battery energy storage systems, sustainable outdoor lighting systems powered by solar, wind and storage, and microgrid systems. Colite Tech is seeking an experienced operator to manage all Installation and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) activities.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in C&I solar and battery storage construction and O&M, excellent project management skills, and familiarity with utility interconnection processes and typical permitting requirements. This role will oversee the full lifecycle of solar installation, from pre-construction planning through commissioning, as well as ongoing O&M for installed systems. As a key leader within our EPC team, the manager will oversee field crews and subcontractors in coordination with internal departments to ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest quality and safety standards.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Oversee end-to-end management of C&I solar and battery storage installation projects, from pre-construction through commissioning.
• Implement and enforce quality and safety protocols on all construction and service sites.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including NEC, OSHA, and local AHJ codes and standards with the highest degree of safety and quality.
• Lead O&M activities post-installation to ensure optimal system performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
• Collaborate with other operating functions to optimize project scheduling, budgeting, procurement, and quality control.
• Coordinate and manage all external contractors to maintain schedules, budgets quality and safety standards.
• Supervise field crews, subcontractors, and technicians during installation, commissioning, and service work.
• Interface with utility companies to manage interconnection, inspections, and energization.
• Develop and implement preventive and corrective maintenance plans for solar assets.
• Manage the monitoring of system performance using SCADA or monitoring platforms and respond to faults or underperformance.
• Conduct periodic inspections, testing, and audits of installed systems.
• Identify and vet potential subcontractors as the business continues to grow into new geographic regions.
• Maintain documentation for all projects, including as-built drawings, O&M manuals, service records, and warranty tracking.
Support client relationships by providing status updates, reports, and recommended performance improvements.
• Provide regular progress and performance reporting to senior leadership and clients.
• Provide leadership, mentoring, and development to field staff.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of installation and maintenance processes and standards.
• Work with HR to manage and grow installation and O&M resources as necessary to support business growth.
• Travel regularly to active sites to manage quality and safety protocols.
EXPERIENCE/SKILLS REQUIRED:
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in solar construction management, including at least 4 years in a C&I or utility-scale environment.
• Proven track record managing multiple commercial solar projects, including rooftop, ground mount, and parking canopies, in parallel from 100 kW to 5+ MW.
• Direct experience installing battery energy storage systems (BESS).
• Expert in PV solar and battery storage system commission and testing protocols.
• Knowledge of relevant codes, permitting, interconnection processes, and safety regulations (NEC, OSHA, NFPA 70E, etc.).
• Familiarity with major equipment (inverters, modules, racking systems) and system configurations (string, central, microinverters).
• Proficient in reading and interpreting one-line diagrams, electrical plans, site plans, and structural drawings.
• Demonstrated experience with O&M management, including troubleshooting and diagnostics of inverters, data acquisition systems, and monitoring platforms.
• Familiarity with typical utility interconnection processes.
• Experience managing subcontractors, field staff, and site logistics.
• Proficient in project management tools (MS Project, Primavera, etc.) and solar monitoring platforms (e.g., AlsoEnergy, SolarEdge, Enphase).
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION & DETAILS:
• BS degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• Valid driver’s license with ability and willingness to travel frequently across the Southeast.
• Strong knowledge of NEC 2023, OSHA 30, and local building/electrical codes.
• NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification
• Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to maintain documentation and report effectively.
• Ability to identify and implement cost-saving and efficiency improvements in both construction and maintenance workflows.