Organization Summary
Civic Works’ Energy Programs make it easy and affordable for Baltimore City and Central Maryland residents to go solar and upgrade their energy efficiency. Through our programs, residents of all income levels lower their energy bills, improve the comfort and safety of their homes, and have a positive impact on the environment. As an integral part of Civic Works’ job training center, we also play a pivotal role in expanding access to quality careers in the clean energy sector.
In 2023, Civic Works launched its low-income solar installation and roofing services program, providing free services to 17 Baltimore City homeowners. With key partners and funding in place, Civic Works is now poised to rapidly scale the program to serve about 70 low-income households each year. Civic Works is hiring a Solar Crew Leader to support the expansion and implementation of this program. Civic Works’ green initiatives have been highlighted by The Baltimore Sun, The Washington Post, the US Conference of Mayors, and the Maryland Sustainable Growth Commission. Join us in creating a stronger, more resilient clean energy economy. Learn more about our transformative residential energy programs at
Position Summary
The Solar Crew Leader will lead teams of On-the-Job Training (OJT) participants through rooftop solar installations. The Crew Leader will report to the Solar Field Manager on all jobs. As a Crew Leader, they will be responsible for ensuring tasks are properly maintained and completed at each work site. They will supervise crews and evaluate the progress for each project. They will prepare and maintain required documentation and reports as needed. As Crew Leader, they will work with homeowners and will have a strong customer service focus and a passion for clean energy. They will be responsible for meeting monthly goals and will be evaluated based on performance metrics set by the Solar Field Manager and Solar and Roofing Construction and Training Manager.
Primary Responsibilities
Supervision of Solar Installation Team
- Set expectations daily.
- Provide regular feedback and coaching.
- Evaluate performance based on measurable outcomes.
- Create a corrective action plan if performance metrics are not met.
- Instruct and deliver curriculum to trainees in OJT
- Provide technical assistance on-the-job and make recommendations for additional hands-on training modules.
- Request support from senior staff, as needed.
Oversight of Installation Services and Safety Practices
- Lead residential solar installations, including layout and assembly of solar modules/array and mounting hardware and mechanical/structural mounting of racking, modules and electrical equipment.
- Set the pace of work and help trainees develop the proficiency and speed that will be expected by employer partners.
- Oversee work quality of all installers on site, according to industry standards and specific contract requirements.
- Continuously work towards a 100% pass rate on quality control inspections and permit inspections; debrief and act upon all feedback received.
- Provide day-to-day oversight of required supporting documentation of all installations (e.g. job notes, completion forms, photos, etc.).
- Submit daily reports on all work completed to the Solar Field Manager.
- Ensure that all team members are consistently in compliance with safety standards, according to federal and state standards and best practice guidelines, whether in the field or in the warehouse.
- Maintain knowledge of current trends, developments, standards, and practices within the industry. Participate in educational programming or professional meetings as needed.
- Request support from senior staff, as needed.
Customer Service and Engagement
- Set and manage expectations with customers daily.
- Break down technical language into general terms for customers.
- Ensure customer satisfaction; respond to all questions and concerns with professionalism.
- Respond to quality control inspector questions and concerns with professionalism.
- Escalate problems to the Solar Field Manager, as needed.
Equipment Management
- Safely operate company vehicles to transport crew, materials, and equipment to and from job sites.
- Maintain a proper supply of materials and inventory for each job and vehicle assigned.
- Coordinate with the Solar Field Manager to provide advance notice when supply purchases may be required.
- Under supervision, maintain and purchase materials as needed. Submit and code all receipts daily.
- Ensure vehicles, equipment, and tools are in good working and safe condition.
- Coordinate with the Solar and Roofing Construction and Training Manager to provide notice when professional repairs may be required.
Secondary Responsibilities
- Perform duties and tasks as they relate to industry standards, contracts, and work orders.
- Participate in staff and team meetings. Communicate and coordinate with the appropriate program staff as needed.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by the Solar Field Manager and Solar and Roofing Construction and Training Manager.
Education & Experience
- At least 3 years of solar installation experience is required.
- Supervisory and/or Crew Lead experience preferred but not required.
- Degree, certifications, and/or completed courses comparable with the curriculum taught at the Civic Works’ Center for Sustainable Careers.
- Must have a valid driver’s license.
- Must have extensive technical experience, expertise, and/or industry knowledge of residential construction.
- Experience training new solar installers.
- Expertise with or ability to quickly learn web-based software such as Google Mail, Google Drive, and Google Calendar.
- Experience with flat roofs is a plus.
Skills & Abilities
- NABCEP PV Associate and/or PV Installer Professional is a plus.
- Well-organized with the ability to prioritize, multitask, and work independently under pressure and tight deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to adhere to a strict guideline of keeping and maintaining confidential information.
- Physical ability to perform the work. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. or more, and perform during all types of weather conditions.
- Team player, experience as a leader, a self-starter, a willingness to lead and initiate.
- Ability to perform basic math.
- Ability to prepare and submit accurate and reliable reports.
- Ability to teach curriculum in a traditional and non-traditional manner.
- Excellent verbal communication, interpersonal relations, and writing skills.
- Ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to customers in easy to understand terms.
- Ability to read and understand plan sets.
- Passion for renewable energy and an enthusiasm for energy efficiency and social justice.
- Ability to build deep supporting relationships with program participants from historically marginalized communities.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus.
Schedule and Location:
- Work schedule is typically Monday through Friday, with start times as early as 7am.
- This is an in-person position that will report to Civic Works’ office in Baltimore City and travel to solar installation locations.
Benefits
- Eligible for benefits, including but not limited to medical insurance, dental and vision insurance, long term and short term disability, life insurance, 401(k) plan with employer match, and paid time off.
Civic Works is committed to fostering a welcoming environment and denouncing racism in any form. Civic Works is deeply committed to the dignity, equity, and inclusion of all persons regardless of race, sex, marital status, pregnancy, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, and veteran status.
Pay: $24.04 - $26.44 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Baltimore, MD 21213
