Community & Municipal Engagement Manager - Community Solar (Illinois)

 

Solar Landscape is the leading commercial rooftop solar developer in the U.S. Only 4% of commercial rooftops host solar today — we’re changing that, fast. Commercial rooftop solar is the fastest, smartest way to build new clean power — delivering megawatts of generation in months, not years, and powering America’s energy and future right where it’s needed most. By turning rooftops into local power plants, we’re reshaping how — and how fast — energy gets built in the U.S.

 

Recognized as the #1 Distributed Generation Developer by New Project Media, the #1 National Commercial Rooftop Solar Developer by Solar Power World, and winner of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grand Prize for Clean Energy, Solar Landscape is defining the future of energy generation in America.

 

Headquartered in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Solar Landscape has offices in Chicago, Baltimore, and New York City and operates in over a dozen states nationwide.

 

We move fast, solve hard problems, and take our work seriously — but never ourselves. We value clear thinking, accountability, and execution. At the same time, we’re collaborative by default, and believe the best work happens when people enjoy working together. Our team is made up of smart, grounded people who show up for each other — whether that’s troubleshooting a system design or catching up over lunch.

 

If you’re looking to do meaningful work in a high-performance environment — and be part of the team reshaping how energy gets built in the U.S. — we’d love to meet you.

 

We are seeking an experienced Community & Municipal Engagement Manager to lead community outreach and stakeholder engagement efforts throughout the Chicagoland region in support of Illinois' Community-Driven Community Solar (CDCS) Program.

This relationship-driven role will serve as Solar Landscape's representative within local communities, building strong partnerships with municipalities, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and community leaders to expand access to community solar across Illinois.

Reporting to the Chief Commercial Officer, you will play a critical role in supporting subscriber acquisition, advancing project development, and strengthening Solar Landscape's presence within the communities we serve.

Build and maintain strategic relationships with municipalities, elected officials, community-based organizations, chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, neighborhood associations, nonprofit organizations, and local business leaders.

Developing partnerships that support subscriber acquisition for community solar projects.

Educating municipalities, community organizations, businesses, and residents about the benefits of Illinois' CDCS Program and community solar generally.

Working with local partners to identify and engage residential and commercial subscribers.

Help facilitate and enroll residential customers at in-person engagement events.

Representing the company at community meetings, events, workshops, conferences, and public outreach activities.

Building long-term relationships that strengthen our presence throughout Illinois.

Identifying strategic partnership opportunities that expand access to community solar.

Maintaining accurate records of outreach activities, partnerships, donations, and subscriber opportunities.

Serving as a trusted resource for community stakeholders throughout the lifecycle of our projects.

Lead stakeholder engagement and support, and ongoing engagement commitments, for new community solar project applications.

Collaborating with and supporting internal marketing, policy/legal, compliance, operations, project development, and subscriber acquisition teams.

Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.

5+ years of experience in community engagement, government relations, public affairs, business development, economic development, nonprofit leadership, clean energy, utilities, or related fields.

Existing relationships within the Chicagoland municipal and nonprofit communities are highly desirable.

Outstanding communication and presentation skills.

Ability to be a self-starter and work independently while collaborating with a high-performing remote team.

Strong organizational and project management skills.

Willingness to travel throughout the Chicagoland area for meetings and events; driver’s license and vehicle preferred (travel is reimbursed)

Experience with community solar, renewable energy, utilities, or public policy is preferred but not required.