Solar Programs, Application Processing Associate (Hybrid - Oakland, CA; Portland, OR; Chicago, IL - US)

Energy Solutions is seeking a full-time Solar Associate, Application Processing, to join our Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Team. The Solar Associate will support program operations by independently processing solar applications in accordance with established SOPs, program requirements, and quality standards.

This role is responsible for reviewing applications for accuracy, completeness, and compliance, verifying information across multiple documents and systems, communicating with approved vendors to resolve application issues, and escalating exceptions that fall outside defined guidelines. This is a perfect opportunity for someone who can manage high-volume workload, ensures data integrity through quality assurance processes, and contributes to efficient program delivery through accurate and timely application processing.

The person filling this role will be required to work in a hybrid work environment reporting to one of our offices in Oakland, CA; Portland, OR; or Chicago, IL and expected to be in the office a minimum of once a week. 

Daily responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

• Execute assigned program workflows (e.g., claim intake, completeness review, eligibility verification within guidelines) to support service levels and processing timelines.
• 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.
• Review work for accuracy and completeness before submission and flag issues to the Project Manager.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation, in alignment with program guidelines and compliance requirements, in program systems, databases, or CRMs.
• 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.
• 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 noncompliance.
• Document investigations and outcomes, including drafting responses or correspondence based on template responses, provided in program Service Level Agreement(s) (SLAs), as needed.
• Execute data validation and quality assurance activities for assigned workflows using defined checklists and processes.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A high school degree with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience; or a bachelor's degree in project management or related field.
• 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.
• A cover letter will be required explaining your interest in the company and the role (the use of AI is prohibited in the drafting).

The salary range for this role is $60,000–$70,000/annually with a target compensation of $60,000 - $66,500/annually based on experience and qualifications.