Manager, Preconstruction

Scout Clean Energy•Boulder, CO

2d•$130,000 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Scout’s Manager of Preconstruction leads engineering, procurement, and construction planning for assigned utility-scale wind, solar, and energy storage projects, from early development through notice to proceed. The role works with multidisciplinary Scout teams and external technical consultants to define project constraints, develop and design facilities, manage technical work products, and ensure projects advance on time and within budget. Success requires strong technical knowledge, attention to detail, clear communication with audiences of varied technical proficiency, and collaborative work across functions and stakeholders. The position covers engineering design optimization, consultant management, value engineering, equipment and contractor procurement, contract planning, construction strategy, technical due diligence, risk assessment, cost estimating, and schedule development. The manager also supports development, permitting, landowner engagement, and effective transitions into construction. Additional duties may include business cases and protocols, process improvement and documentation, and implementation or development of software tools. The role is preferably based within commuting distance of Scout’s Boulder, Colorado office on a hybrid three-days-in-office/two-days-remote schedule. Remote work with monthly office travel may be considered. The position requires up to 25% travel to project sites in the United States and field work. The role is expected to close by January 15, 2027. Target base salary is $130,000–$150,000, negotiable for the right candidate, with attractive bonus potential. Scout offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) match, short- and long-term disability coverage, an Employee Assistance Program, and optional supplemental insurance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a relevant technical field.
At least 5 years of experience as an engineer or project manager focused on engineering, procurement, or construction aspects of planning and executing utility-scale wind or solar projects.
Solid knowledge and understanding of key value drivers for wind or solar power projects.
Experience providing preconstruction cost estimates based on industry knowledge.
Demonstrated ability to review and revise civil and electrical plans and specifications.
Experience developing contract exhibits for balance-of-plant contracts.
Strong verbal and written communication, organizational, project management, problem-solving, and team-building skills.
Ability to solve problems and make informed decisions quickly.
Experience working with cross-functional internal and external technical advisors and stakeholders.
Ability to work in a flat organization and leverage colleagues’ expertise across different reporting lines.
Ability to multitask, arbitrate between conflicting priorities, set clear targets, and follow through in a fast-paced and changing environment.
Valid current driver’s license and ability to travel and perform field work.
Authorization to work in the United States.
Proficiency with computers and strong working knowledge of MS Excel, SharePoint, Google Earth, ArcGIS or GlobalMapper, Bluebeam Revu, and MS Project or similar scheduling software.

Nice To Haves

Battery energy storage system (BESS) experience.
Abilities in civil or electrical design software.
Located within commuting distance of the Boulder, Colorado office, or willingness to relocate there.

Responsibilities

Work with multidisciplinary Scout teams at the outset of each project to define project constraints and prioritize success metrics.
Communicate clearly and frequently and represent Scout professionally with project partners and stakeholders.
Coordinate with Development, Interconnection, Site Assessment, Procurement, Construction, and Operations teams to optimize site selection, major equipment selection, balance-of-plant layout, and interconnection options.
Scope engineering and design work with third-party engineering consultants; manage delivery to budget and schedule; review drawings and specifications; and obtain Scout team approval.
Lead value engineering exercises to maximize project financial performance.
Evaluate and monitor offerings from major equipment suppliers.
Draft requests for proposals and conduct competitive selection processes for general contractors, subcontractors, and major equipment suppliers.
Develop technical exhibits and provide technical input on balance-of-plant and EPC contracts; assist with contract negotiations to plan projects effectively.
Develop construction strategies, including key resource needs, risks, and mitigations.
Review project documentation and perform technical due diligence for project acquisition opportunities.
Travel to project locations for site inspections, constructability reviews, and micro-siting evaluations.
Perform risk assessments and create risk/opportunity matrices.
Provide balance-of-plant cost estimates to support Finance and Origination.
Create Level 1 and Level 2 EPC schedules and align stakeholders on critical-path activities.
Support Development, including permitting efforts and landowner meetings.
Use technical expertise to support efficient transitions into the construction phase.
As assigned, build business cases and protocols, improve and document processes, and integrate commercial software or develop internal software tools.