Senior Manager, Preconstruction

Scout Clean Energy•Boulder, CO

17d•Hybrid

About The Position

Scout’s Senior Manager of Preconstruction leads engineering, procurement, and construction planning for assigned utility-scale wind and solar projects from early development through notice to proceed. The role works with multidisciplinary internal teams and external technical consultants to plan project development and design, manage technical deliverables, and support project transitions into construction. Success requires attention to detail, the ability to advance multiple work streams on time and on budget, strong technical knowledge of utility-scale wind or solar plants, and effective communication with audiences of varying technical proficiency. The position also develops and mentors junior team members, supports hiring, and may take on additional work to improve Scout’s preconstruction and engineering practices. The role is preferably based within commuting distance of Scout’s Boulder, Colorado office, working a hybrid 3/2 schedule; remote work with monthly office travel may be considered for the right candidate. It requires up to 25% travel to project sites in the United States.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a relevant technical field.
At least 6 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.
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.
Experience working with cross-functional internal and external technical advisors and stakeholders.
Ability to work effectively in a flat organization and leverage colleagues’ expertise across different reporting lines.
Ability to multitask and arbitrate between conflicting priorities, set clear targets, and follow through in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment.
Valid current driver’s license and ability to travel and perform field work.
Authorization to work in the United States.

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, is preferred; remote work with monthly office travel may be considered for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

Work with multidisciplinary Scout teams to define project constraints and prioritize success metrics.
Communicate clearly and frequently, representing Scout professionally with project partners and stakeholders.
Coordinate with Development, Interconnection, Site Assessment, Procurement, Construction, and Operations teams to optimize project design, including site selection, major equipment, balance-of-plant layout, and interconnection options.
Scope engineering and design work with third-party engineering consultants; manage execution to budget and schedule; review technical drawings and specifications; and seek Scout team approval.
Lead value-engineering exercises to maximize project financial performance.
Evaluate major equipment suppliers and stay current on their offerings.
Draft requests for proposals and conduct competitive selection processes for general contractors, subcontractors, and major equipment suppliers.
Develop technical exhibits and provide input on technical aspects of balance-of-plant and EPC contracts; assist with contract negotiations.
Develop construction strategies, identifying resource needs, risks, and mitigation strategies.
Review project documentation and perform technical due diligence on acquisition opportunities.
Travel to project locations for site inspections, constructability reviews, and micro-siting evaluations.
Create risk/opportunity matrices and perform risk assessment analysis.
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 efforts, including permitting and landowner meetings.
Support efficient and effective project transitions into the construction phase.
Develop, manage, and mentor junior team members and direct reports; support and lead hiring and selection of junior team members.
Perform other assigned work that may include building business cases or protocols, improving and documenting processes, and integrating commercial software or developing internal tools.