Utility Solar Construction Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION/POSITION OVERVIEW:
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Utility Solar Project Construction Manager to oversee the construction of small to large-scale solar energy projects. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing all phases of solar project construction, ensuring safety, quality, timeline adherence, and budget compliance. This role requires a strong understanding of solar technologies, construction practices, and the coordination of multidisciplinary teams and equipment.
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES:

• Monitor and manage the EPC Contractor’s safety, scope, cost, schedule, and contract compliance during the construction phase for a project and reports directly to the Project Manager (PM).
• All project team members, including contractor or company employees, assigned to the construction phase of a project report to the CM.
• With appropriate subject matter experts’ input, assure that the project construction adheres to applicable codes, specifications (either company generated or industry standards), and permitting.  
• Facilitate pre-construction meeting emphasizing safety and communicates any schedule or construction recommendations with PM.
• Deliver Daily progress reports, JSA’s, JSO’s, Environmental audits in Unifier Platform or other specified software.
• Assist with tracking construction man hours onsite
• Ability to learn Westwood Construction Management Tracking Tool and input the require data daily.
• Ensure EPC contract/SOW inspections are being completed and monitor resolutions
• Ensure the EPC is following the engineer approved/OEM testing and start-up procedures of installed equipment. Work with Start up and Testing group to ensure efficient coordination efforts are being executed.
• Develop and manage punch list and obtains signoff of the turnover check list
• Assists PM in providing O&M manuals and asset lists the responsible parties.
• Assist with ensuring as built redline drawings are submitted to Engineering.
• Assist with compiling close out documentation consistent to standard format provided by PM.
• Assist with efficient handoff of the facility to operations at COD including spare parts list and warranty terms and contacts.

Project Planning and Management:

• Monitor the EPC contractors construction schedules and milestones. Escalate key scheduling risks when necessary. Assist with the development and implementation of detailed construction plans and schedules when required.
• Coordinate with project developers, engineers, subcontractors, and other stakeholders.

Budget and Resource Management:

• Assist Project Manager with managing project budgets, ensuring cost efficiency.
• Ensure EPC is procuring the necessary materials, equipment, and labor in compliance with the project SOW and Contracts. Labor shall be following the NMA agreement as well as IRP requirements for renewable tax credits.

Construction Oversight:

• Supervise on-site construction activities to ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, regulatory guidelines, SOW, and contract deliverables.
• Conduct regular site inspections to verify adherence to design specifications and project timelines.

Equipment and Technology Coordination:

• Ensure proper use, maintenance, and operation of all construction equipment and tools.
• Ensure installation and testing of solar equipment, including inverters, transformers, panels, and other solar equipment is completed per the EPC’s ITP and OEM or approved procedures.

Team Leadership:

• Assist with leading on-site teams, providing direction and support.
• Assist with facilitating effective communication between all project stakeholders.

Safety and Compliance:

• Enforce adherence to safety protocols and industry standards. Ensure EPC contractor is following their approved site/project specific safe working plans and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Required Equipment Knowledge
The ideal candidate must have experience working with or supervising the use of the following equipment and tools:
Solar Equipment:

• Photovoltaic (PV) panels and modules.
• Inverters and combiner boxes.
• Transformers, substations, and switchgear.
• Mounting structures, racking systems, and tracking systems.

Construction Equipment:

• Excavators, bulldozers, and graders for site preparation.
• Pile drivers for foundation installation.
• Panel and equipment placement.
• Forklifts and telehandlers for material handling.
• Trenching equipment and cable plows for electrical and communication wiring.

Testing and Measurement Tools:

• Multimeters and clamp meters.
• Familiar with thermal imaging cameras for detecting system inefficiencies.
• Ground resistance testers.
• Familiar with drone technology for site inspection and progress monitoring.

Work Environment

• Requires frequent travel to construction sites.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions and terrains.
• May involve long hours to meet project deadlines.