Civil Project Engineer II at New Leaf Energy

Chicago, Illinois, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Renewable Energy, Solar, Energy StorageIndustries

Requirements

6–12 years of demonstrated experience in site development, entitlement, and environmental permitting (municipal, state, and federal). Experience with transmission-connected solar PV or energy storage projects is strongly preferred
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering
Active Professional Engineer (PE) license; multi-state licensure preferred
Experience in cost estimation, reviewing engineering services contracts, managing subconsultants, and overseeing project schedules
Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D and HYDROCAD (or equivalent design tools) preferred, but not required
Strong communication skills with the ability to convey design concepts and lead meetings with clients, engineers, regulatory officials, and consultants
Proven ability to self-manage multiple projects while remaining motivated, detail-oriented, and organized
Demonstrated passion for renewable energy

Responsibilities

Design, direct, and manage concurrent renewable energy projects using internal and external resources
Lead site reviews, zoning/bylaw reviews, and define project entitlement paths
Manage survey, environmental, and engineering sub-consultants in coordination with staff engineers
Apply New Leaf Energy’s Value Stream Map (VSM) to advance projects through design and entitlement
Identify, qualify, and onboard surveyors and consultants to support project design and entitlement
Use scheduling, task management, KPIs, QC, and other tools to ensure design quality, standards adherence, and timeliness
Coordinate with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) and stakeholders; present to planning/zoning boards, and state and federal agencies
Develop project entitlement documentation, including narratives, exhibits, and appendices
Contribute to the development of standard details, notes, specifications, and SOPs
Review design drawings and project bid sets prepared by internal or external designers
Prepare civil engineering components of project bid sets for use in the IPP bidding process
Respond to bidder permitting questions and participate in due diligence calls with project bidders
Coach and mentor early-career engineers

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Civil EngineeringSolar PV DesignEnergy StorageSite ReviewsZoning ReviewPermittingSurvey ManagementEnvironmental ConsultingProject SchedulingKPIsQuality ControlTask Management

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the location or work arrangement for this role?

The position targets candidates for the Chicago, IL office, with Boston, MA and Troy, NY also considered. It offers a hybrid work environment requiring office presence at least two out of every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and remote candidates who qualify are encouraged to apply.

What experience and qualifications are required for this Civil Project Engineer II role?

Candidates need 6–12 years of demonstrated experience in site development, entitlement, and environmental permitting, with experience in transmission-connected solar PV or energy storage projects strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering and an active Professional Engineer (PE) license are required.

What are the primary responsibilities of this position?

Key duties include designing and managing renewable energy projects, leading site and zoning reviews, managing sub-consultants, coordinating with AHJs and stakeholders, developing entitlement documentation, reviewing design drawings, and coaching early-career engineers.

What is the reporting structure for this role?

This position reports directly to the Vice President of Civil Engineering.

What makes a strong candidate for this Civil Project Engineer II position?

Ideal candidates have 6–12 years of experience in site development, entitlement, and permitting for solar PV or energy storage projects, hold a Civil Engineering degree and active PE license, and can balance due diligence with project risk while collaborating across teams.

New Leaf Energy

Develops solar and energy storage projects

About New Leaf Energy

New Leaf Energy focuses on developing solar and energy storage projects to promote the use of renewable energy. The company collaborates with local authorities and utilities to create projects that benefit system owners, who own the solar and storage systems, and offtakers, who purchase the energy produced. New Leaf Energy operates in various regions across the United States, including California, New England, New York, Illinois, and Maine. Unlike many competitors, New Leaf Energy emphasizes strong partnerships with landowners to secure project sites and fosters a positive work culture for its employees. The goal of New Leaf Energy is to accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions for a sustainable future.

55 Technology Dr Suite #102, Lowell, MA 01851, USAHeadquarters

2022Year Founded

BUYOUT_LBOCompany Stage

EnergyIndustries

201-500Employees