Preconstruction Manager

Climate17; Remote; GBP 105,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

An international renewable energy recruitment firm is seeking a Preconstruction Manager to oversee utility-scale solar and battery energy storage projects. The ideal candidate should have 2-5 years of relevant experience, strong skills in cost analysis and project development, and the ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams. This role is remote with periodic travel. Offering a salary of $145,000 – $160,000, along with a performance bonus and comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Annual performance bonus (20–25%)

401(k) match

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of relevant experience in preconstruction or estimating.
• Experience with large-scale renewable projects (150 MW+).
• Strong understanding of site development and geotechnical considerations.
• Ability to interpret site data and identify construction risks.

Responsibilities

• Lead preconstruction efforts for utility-scale solar PV and BESS projects.
• Develop market-based cost estimates supporting project pricing strategy.
• Evaluate site characteristics and civil design requirements.
• Collaborate with internal teams for project scope definition.

Skills

Preconstruction experience

Cost analysis

Project development

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Technical degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Job description

Preconstruction Manager – Renewable Energy (Utility-Scale Solar & BESS)

Location: Remote, USA

About the Company

Our client is a leading owner-operator in the renewable energy space with a rapidly growing portfolio of utility-scale solar and battery energy storage (BESS) assets across major U.S. power markets, including MISO, ERCOT, PJM, and WECC. With several hundred megawatts in operation and additional large-scale projects in construction, they are expanding their internal capabilities to support continued growth and strategic M&A activity.

The Opportunity

The Preconstruction Manager will play a pivotal role in shaping early-stage project success through robust preconstruction planning, cost analysis, and risk mitigation. This role will support both development and M&A teams, providing realistic, market-based cost estimates and insights to inform investment and execution decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead preconstruction efforts for utility-scale solar PV and BESS projects across the U.S., from initial feasibility through late-stage development and M&A diligence.
• Develop indicative and market-based cost estimates using internal tools and benchmarking data, supporting investment decision-making and project pricing strategy.
• Identify and evaluate site characteristics, geotechnical conditions, and civil design requirements to de-risk projects.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders including Development, Engineering, and Finance to support project scope definition and constructability assessments.
• Manage relationships with external contractors, suppliers, and consultants to validate estimates and gather market intelligence.
• Provide input on project schedules, civil design, and site logistics to ensure smooth transition from development to execution.
• Support continuous improvement of internal estimating tools and processes to bolster the company’s in-house preconstruction capabilities.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of relevant experience in preconstruction, estimating, or project development for utility-scale renewable energy projects (solar PV and/or BESS).
• Experience working for an Independent Power Producer (IPP), EPC, or developer on large-scale renewable projects (150 MW+).
• Strong understanding of site development, civil and structural considerations, and geotechnical due diligence.
• Ability to interpret site data and identify construction and cost risks during early-stage evaluation.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills; able to work cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners.
• Technical degree preferred (Civil or Structural Engineering background ideal, though not required).
• Comfortable working remotely with periodic travel to corporate offices or project sites (approx. 3–4 days per month).

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary: $145,000 – $160,000, commensurate with experience.
• Annual performance bonus (20–25%).
• 401(k) match and comprehensive benefits package.

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose‑led, international renewable energy & sustainability recruitment consulting firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition and market insight services to organizations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and those working towards the decarbonization of the energy sector.

Inclusive Application Process

Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability. If you require additional support, equipment, or resources to participate in the job application or interview process, please let us know.