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Career Opportunity

Renewable Energy Specialist (Principal Consultant #1940, 1941)
1940, 1941
Springfield or Chicago
IFSOE
School Business Services
$60,047 - $75,881
$60,047 - $102,191
Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
May 22, 2025
Open Until Filled

​The Renewable Energy Support Specialist is a grant-funded position through December 31, 2027, and will provide guidance, resources, and hands-on support to school districts as they plan and implement renewable energy projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of renewable energy technologies, project management, and educational systems. They will work directly with school district stakeholders, local and state agencies, and energy providers to ensure seamless integration of renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, and other energy-efficient solutions.​

  • ​Provides technical assistance and support to school districts to meet the requirements of the grant from the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program.
  • Develops and provides training materials, presentations, and workshops to educate school district staff on renewable energy systems, maintenance, and energy efficiency practices.
  • Develops and maintains resources for school districts, including educational materials and best practices for energy sustainability and indoor environmental quality.
  • Collaborates with school district teams to identify energy needs, goals, and opportunities for renewable energy implementation.
  • Serves as a liaison between school districts, funding organizations, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.
  • Identifies potential grants, subsidies, and other funding opportunities available for energy efficiency projects.
  • Collaborates with school district personnel to prepare and submit grant proposals, applications, and required documentation for renewable energy projects.
  • Assists school districts with compliance with relevant regulations, incentives, and policies at the local, state, and federal levels.
  • Assists with analyzing and processing documents for the Health/Life and Safety Program, School Construction Grant Program, School Maintenance Grant Program, and other related programs as necessary.
  • Stays informed about advancements in renewable energy technology and funding opportunities.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • ​Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Sustainability, or a related field, or, a Bachelor's degree in any field plus two years of experience in renewable energy fields. (COPY OF TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED AT TIME OF APPLICATION)
  • One year of experience (in addition to the education requirements) in renewable energy fields. 
  • Strong understanding of renewable energy systems (solar, wind, battery storage, etc.) and energy efficiency solutions. 
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with diverse stakeholders (school district officials, educators, contractors, etc.). 
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to various challenges and changing project scopes. 
  • ​Experience developing training materials and workshops related to renewable energy and/or relevant to K-12 school districts. 
  • Experience in project management, including budgeting, timelines, and stakeholder coordination. 
  • Experience working with K-12 education systems or public sector organizations. 
  • Familiarity with governmental regulations, energy incentives, and grant funding related to renewable energy. 
  • Passion for sustainability and the impact of renewable energy in the educational sector. 

ISBE provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. We actively foster a culture of inclusion and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.

Illinois has an urgent and collective responsibility to achieve educational equity by ensuring that all policies, programs, and practices affirm the strengths that each and every child brings within their diverse backgrounds and life experiences, and by delivering the comprehensive supports, programs, and educational opportunities they need to succeed.