Description POSITION DESCRIPTION: Qcells is seeking a passionate and results-driven Senior Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Program Manager to lead the strategy, launch, scaling, and continuous improvement of VPP programs across the U.S. This role will play a key part in helping distributed energy resources (DERs) deliver grid services, create value for customers, and support utility and market operator partners.
The Senior VPP Program Manager will drive cross-functional initiatives across product, operations, software, regulatory, and business teams while helping shape Qcells' long-term DER monetization and grid services strategy. This role requires a combination of strategic thinking, operational execution, utility market knowledge, and strong stakeholder leadership.
LOCATION & WORK ARRANGEMENT This role is remote; however, the candidate(s) will be expected to relocate at their own expense to our onsite Houston location by Q1 in 2027* RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead the strategy, design, launch, and scaling of VPP programs aligned with Qcells' profit modeling, customer needs, utility requirements, and market opportunities.
- Own and evolve the roadmap for Qcells' VPP programs, identifying new DER monetization opportunities, grid services offerings, and expansion strategies across multiple markets.
- Drive cross-functional coordination across Product, Engineering, Operations, Regulatory, and Commercial teams to support successful program execution and scalability.
- Develop and optimize end-to-end program processes, including resource registration, customer enrollment, dispatch operations, compliance, settlement, and performance monitoring.
- Lead discussions and coordination with utilities, ISOs/RTOs, aggregators, and external partners regarding program participation, interconnection requirements, and market integration.
- Identify operational inefficiencies and implement process improvements focused on automation, scalability, customer experience, and program performance.
- Analyze market trends, regulatory developments, and utility program structures to inform strategic roadmap decisions and business opportunities.
- Support executive-level reporting and provide strategic recommendations regarding VPP program performance, risks, and growth opportunities.
- Serve as a subject matter expert for VPP operations, DER aggregation, and grid services strategy across internal and external stakeholder groups.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Energy Systems, Business, or a related technical field.
- 7+ years of experience in VPP, DER, Demand Response, Energy Markets, Grid Services, or Utility Program Management.
- Direct experience working with utilities, ISOs/RTOs, VPP aggregators, DERMS providers, or grid service organizations.
- Strong understanding of utility interconnection processes, DER integration requirements, and wholesale electricity market structures across the U.S.
- Experience leading complex cross-functional programs involving technical, operational, regulatory, and commercial stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to independently drive strategic initiatives and manage multiple concurrent programs in fast-paced environments.
- Excellent written, verbal, and executive-level communication skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Advanced understanding of DER monetization models, demand response strategy, capacity markets, and grid services participation.
- Experience working with energy software platforms such as DERMS, SCADA, EMS, or distributed asset management systems.
- Familiarity with utility regulatory frameworks, decarbonization initiatives, and evolving grid modernization policies.
- Experience supporting utility partnerships, customer acquisition strategies, or market expansion initiatives.
- Proficiency with analytics and reporting tools such as Tableau, Power BI, SQL, or Python.
- Experience working within fast-scaling clean energy, utility, or energy technology organizations.
- Ability to travel 10% or as needed
PHYSICAL, MENTAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS: To comply with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 the essential physical, mental and environmental requirements for this job are listed below. These are requirements normally expected to perform regular job duties. Incumbent must be able to successfully perform all of the functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Mobility Standing
20% of time
Sitting
70% of time
Walking
10% of time
Strength Pulling
up to 10 Pounds
Pushing
up to 10 Pounds
Carrying
up to 10 Pounds
Lifting
up to 10 Pounds
Dexterity (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) Typing
F
Handling
F
Reaching
F
Agility (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) Turning
F
Twisting
F
Bending
O
Crouching
O
Balancing
N
Climbing
N
Crawling
N
Kneeling
N
The salary range is required by the California Pay Transparency Act and may differ depending on the location of those candidates hired nationwide. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to, skill set, education, licenses and certifications, essential job duties and requirements, and the necessary experience relative to the job's minimum qualifications.
*This target salary range is for CA positions only and should not be interpreted as an offer of compensation.
