Job Title:
Civil Engineer - Distributed Solar and Energy Storage Job Description This role focuses on civil engineering design and scope development for distributed solar and battery storage projects in the 2-20 MW range. You will evaluate site feasibility, develop and review detailed civil design packages, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality renewable energy projects that support the transition to a carbon-neutral future. Responsibilities Lead civil engineering design and scope development for distributed solar and storage projects in the 2-20 MW range. Evaluate site feasibility, including grading, drainage, stormwater, hydrology, geotechnical conditions, and site access. Develop and review site layouts and grading plans to optimize constructability, performance, and cost. Design and review drainage and stormwater management systems that comply with applicable standards and regulations. Plan and design access roads and utility routing to support construction, operations, and maintenance activities. Design foundations for PV arrays and battery energy storage system (BESS) infrastructure. Coordinate and collaborate with internal development, engineering, construction, and procurement teams to align civil design with project requirements and schedules. Work closely with external consultants to review and integrate third-party civil designs and studies into overall project deliverables. Support multiple concurrent projects (typically around five at a time), ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery of civil design packages. Contribute to internal design standards, best practices, and processes for land development on solar and storage projects. Communicate clearly and proactively with team members to resolve design issues and support successful project execution across the full lifecycle. Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an ABET-accredited institution. At least 5 years of civil engineering experience, with a strong background in land development, transmission or distribution, or solar engineering. Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D for civil design, including site layouts, grading, and associated civil works. Hands-on experience with site development, including grading, drainage, stormwater, hydrology, and geotechnical considerations. Demonstrated ability to support layout and design efforts across multiple concurrent projects. Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a highly interactive, team-based environment. Fundamental engineering knowledge and training, with EIT-level competence or equivalent civil engineering foundation. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience in civil design for renewable energy projects such as solar, wind, or battery storage. background in land development for utility-scale or distributed energy projects. Experience working with transmission or distribution infrastructure in conjunction with civil site design. Eligibility to work remotely while residing in Illinois, Virginia, Minnesota, or Pennsylvania. EIT certification or progress toward professional licensure in civil engineering is beneficial. Interest in contributing to the transition to a carbon-neutral future through large-scale renewable energy projects. Desire to work in a collaborative, mentorship-focused environment with opportunities for training, professional growth, and career mobility. Work Environment You will join a tight-knit, fully remote engineering team consisting of one structural engineer, two civil engineers, and two civil designers. The team operates in a highly collaborative atmosphere that values frequent, clear communication and mutual support. You will work 100% remotely while engaging closely with colleagues across development, engineering, construction, and procurement. Leadership and mentorship are integral to the culture, with experienced team members providing guidance to help you deepen your expertise in land development processes for solar and storage projects. The organization emphasizes a purpose-driven, inclusive culture with strong investment in training, professional development, and long-term career growth in the renewable energy sector. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $40.87 - $55.29/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully remote position.
Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.