Career Opportunities
Sandhills Energy powers projects that increase energy independence to benefit municipalities, local communities, and landowners. We are committed to responsible energy innovation and making a positive difference in the renewable energy landscape. We trace our roots to a single turbine project in Valentine, Nebraska in 2012. We've now expanded to full-lifecycle development, spanning local to utility-scale wind, solar, and storage projects –and we’re growing.
Sandhills Energy Culture
Our team brings a unique blend of expertise, local knowledge, and industry know-how – dedicated to delivering renewable energy solutions. We are sharp-minded, resourceful individuals who transform challenges into impactful solutions. Our extensive experience, down-to-earth nature, and custom approach deliver results for our stakeholders.
AVAILABLE POSITIONS
Director, Operations & Maintenance
To apply for a position, please submit your letter of interest and resume to sarah@sandhillsenergy.com.
Director, Financial Analysis
Location: Omaha, NE – Office-based with flexibility
Sandhills Energy is looking for a strategic Director of Financial Analysis to join our growing team. This role involves providing analytical support for project investments, financial planning, and strategy to enhance our company's decision-making and drive our growth in the renewable energy market. The ideal candidate will have a keen understanding of corporate and project financial modeling, budgeting, and analysis as well as an appreciation for the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the startup environment.
Responsibilities
Analyze, perfect, and maintain the existing financial models currently used for decision support on individual renewable energy projects
Take the lead on creating new financial models for proposed markets and projects
Analyze past results, perform variance analysis, identify trends, and make recommendations for improvements
Work closely with the accounting team using Box, Smartsheet, and Quickbooks to ensure accurate financial reporting
Guide the cost analysis process by establishing and enforcing policies and procedures
Recommend actions by analyzing and interpreting data and making comparative analyses; study proposed changes in methods and materials
Identify and drive process improvements, including the creation of standard and ad-hoc reports, tools, and Excel dashboards
Increase productivity by developing automated reporting/forecasting tools
Perform market research, data mining, business intelligence, and valuation comps
Qualifications
Proven work experience as a Financial Analyst or similar role
Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field
Demonstrable experience with financial modeling, analysis, and statistical analysis
Strong proficiency in financial software applications including QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel. Advanced Smartsheet proficiency is highly valued
Excellent understanding of financial reporting standards
Knowledge of the renewable energy sector and project financing
Outstanding presentation, reporting, and communication skills
Proven knowledge of financial forecasting and diagnosis, corporate finance, and information analysis
Well-informed in current financial subjects, accounting, tax laws, money market, and business environments
Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills, and the ability to identify problems and propose strategic solutions
An entrepreneurial mindset and proven bias for action will be strongly encouraged
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision coverage
Simple IRA with company match
Flexible schedule
Structured bonus opportunity
Cell phone reimbursement
To apply, please submit your letter of interest and resume to sarah@sandhillsenergy.com.
Manager, Business Relations
Location: Omaha, NE – Office-based with flexibility
At Sandhills Energy, we are committed to fostering positive and productive relationships with the communities and businesses we serve. We are currently seeking a Manager of Business Relations who will be the linchpin between our company, the landowners, and city administrators of rural communities where our renewable energy projects are located. This role requires a blend of diplomacy, problem-solving, and project management skills to ensure all parties are engaged and informed, and any issues are resolved efficiently.
Responsibilities
Engage directly with project landowners, municipalities, and utility customers, and industry partners
Periodic travel to meet in person with primary points of contact mainly located in Nebraska and bordering states
Serve as the primary point of contact between Sandhills Energy, landowners, and local government officials
Develop and maintain strong relationships with community stakeholders to facilitate project development and operation
Organize and lead community meetings, providing transparent monthly/quarterly project updates and educational information regarding renewable energy benefits
Implement community engagement strategies that promote goodwill and positive relationships
Coordinate with internal teams to communicate community feedback, ensure compliance with local regulations and expectations, and resolve challenges
Monitor and report on the sentiment of the community and stakeholders, providing insights and strategies to the management team
Coordinate with legal and financial teams to ensure that all local agreements and commitments are honored and upheld
Create and distribute communication materials that convey Sandhills Energy’s mission and project benefits to the community
Qualifications
Proven experience in community engagement, public affairs, or relationship management
Exceptional interpersonal skills with an ability to navigate complex situations and conversations diplomatically
Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills
Must be able to communicate well with people from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. Must be an attentive and engaged listener
Ability to remain calm under contentious circumstances
Experience working in rural communities and understanding of agricultural business and land use is highly beneficial
Excellent communication abilities, including writing, speaking, and presenting
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Willingness to travel to various project sites and engage with community members face-to-face
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, changing environment
Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, business administration, or related field is recommended but not required
Passion for sustainability and renewable energy
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision coverage
Simple IRA with company match
Flexible schedule
Structured bonus opportunity
Cell phone reimbursement
To apply, please submit your letter of interest and resume to sarah@sandhillsenergy.com.
Director, Project Development
Location: Omaha, NE – Office-based with flexibility
Sandhills Energy is seeking a highly organized and dynamic project developer to lead the development, procurement, and construction of our renewable energy assets. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of project management principles, experience in renewable energy development, and the ability to coordinate multifaceted projects. As Director, you will be responsible for managing project timelines, ensuring milestones are met, and that projects are completed within budget and scope.
Responsibilities
Oversee the project lifecycle of renewable energy assets, from origination to beginning of construction
Periodic travel to project development sites. Estimated 3-5 times per month at peak
Develop and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including schedules, budgets, and resource plans
Manage relationships and procurement schedules with key vendors for the major components in a renewable energy project including: turbines, modules, racking, inverters, and transformers
Collaborate with cross-functional teams for project success
Liaise to ensure quality standards and regulatory compliance with contractors, vendors, and consultants
Manage and update project timelines and milestones using appropriate tools and techniques primarily in Smartsheet
Identify project risks and opportunities, developing contingency plans as needed
Communicate regularly with internal and external stakeholders, providing project updates and reports
Facilitate problem-solving and decision-making processes, addressing any issues that may impact project scope, schedule, or budget
Qualifications
3+ years of project development experience, preferably in renewable energy
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business administration, or related field
Strong technical background in renewable energy technologies
Knowledge of permitting, contracting, and financial aspects of energy project development
Detail-oriented with effective communication skills
Proficient in Smartsheet, Box, Microsoft Suite, and Adobe applications
Strong familiarity with project management software tools, methodologies, and best practices
Exceptional leadership, organizational, and multitasking skills
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
Ability to lead teams effectively and foster collaborative relationships
Willingness to travel as required for managing projects across different locations
An entrepreneurial mindset and proven bias for action will be strongly encouraged
Passion for sustainability and renewable energy
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision coverage
Simple IRA with company match
Flexible schedule
Structured bonus opportunity
Cell phone reimbursement
To apply, please submit your letter of interest and resume to sarah@sandhillsenergy.com.
Manager, Project Design
Location: Omaha, NE – Office-based with flexibility
Sandhills Energy seeks an experienced project design professional specializing in solar PV system designs. A successful manager will take the lead on coordinating and overseeing diverse project designs, collaborating with cross-functional teams, ensuring compliance with industry standards, contributing to permitting processes, mentoring team members, and managing project budgets. Proficiency in CAD software, awareness of industry trends, and effective communication are essential.
Responsibilities
Collaborate on solar PV designs with project managers and engineers
Develop conceptual layouts based on client needs and project specs
Create preliminary drawings (30% drawings) for planning and review
Liaise with external firms for design refinement and compliance
Coordinate with experts for detailed construction plans
Provide technical expertise and mentorship
Perform quality checks and maintain project documentation
Assist in permitting and address design challenges
Optimize system efficiency and stay updated on industry trends
Communicate effectively with stakeholders
Prioritize safety and manage project budgets for cost-effective solutions
Qualifications
Degree in electrical engineering, renewable energy, or related field preferred; certifications or extensive experience considered
In-depth knowledge of solar PV systems and associated components
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or other CAD software
Skilled in creating detailed design plans for solar PV installations
Familiarity with building codes, electrical codes, and industry standards
Knowledge of solar design software (PVsyst, SketchUp, Helioscope) or equivalent
Proficient in Microsoft Office for reporting and data analysis
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Precision in drafting for accuracy and compliance
Effective communication and collaboration skills
Basic project management skills for multitasking and meeting deadlines
Familiarity with solar regulations and permitting requirements
Passion for sustainability and renewable energy
Certification in solar design and drafting such as NABCEP PV Design Specialist certification preferred
Prior experience in solar design and drafting is beneficial
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision coverage
Simple IRA with company match
Flexible schedule
Structured bonus opportunity
Cell phone reimbursement
To apply, please submit your letter of interest and resume to sarah@sandhillsenergy.com.
Director, Operations & Maintenance
Location: Sidney, NE – Orientation period in Omaha, NE & Dubuque, IA.
Sandhills Energy is seeking an experienced Director of Operations and Maintenance to develop and oversee our O&M capabilities for solar project installations across the Midwest. This position will be instrumental in maintaining the high operational standards and efficiency of our solar assets, ensuring optimal performance, and maximizing system uptime.
Responsibilities
Build out an O&M team and facility to be based in Sidney, Nebraska
Develop and implement O&M strategies and best practices for solar installations
Oversee all O&M activities, including periodic inspections, preventive maintenance, corrective maintenance, and performance monitoring
Manage a team of O&M technicians and engineers, including training, scheduling, and quality assurance
Liaise with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to ensure seamless operation of solar facilities
Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations
Monitor system performance, analyze data, and prepare operational reports
Manage relationships with vendors and contractors for equipment supply and maintenance services
Develop and manage the O&M budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and identifying opportunities for cost savings
Respond to operational emergencies with a structured and rapid approach
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the latest solar technology and advancements in O&M practices
Facilitate continuous improvement initiatives and technology upgrades
Coordinate with the asset management team to ensure optimal financial performance of solar projects
Qualifications
Journeyman Electrician, or equivalent
5+ years of O&M experience in the solar industry
Certifications in renewable energy, electrical systems, or O&M
Leadership skills to manage a diverse team across multiple states
In-depth knowledge of solar components, software platforms, and electrical systems
Strong project management skills for multiple projects and priorities
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical information
Proficiency in data analysis, O&M software, and monitoring tools
Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment
Willingness to travel to solar project sites in the Midwest
Proactive approach and ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision coverage
Simple IRA with company match
Flexible schedule
Structured bonus opportunity
Cell phone reimbursement
Company vehicle to be provided
To apply, please submit your letter of interest and resume to sarah@sandhillsenergy.com.