Solar Operations Manager

Astute People; England; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK-based renewable energy company is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee large-scale solar projects across the UK. This hybrid role involves managing the project's full lifecycle, from planning to commissioning, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Candidates should have a relevant degree, strong project management skills, and experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits, including car allowance and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Car allowance

Company laptop and phone

Professional growth opportunities

Flexible work environment

Qualifications

• Experience delivering utility-scale solar projects from concept to commissioning in the UK.
• Ability to manage multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Sound technical understanding of solar PV systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage utility-scale solar projects from concept to handover.
• Lead feasibility, planning, and pre-construction activities.
• Oversee construction works and ensure compliance with project specifications.

Skills

Project management

Contract administration

Risk mitigation

Communication skills

Education

Relevant degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Renewable Energy Engineering or Construction Management

Tools

PRINCE2

PMP

APM

Job description

About the role

Astute's Renewables team is partnering with a UK‑based renewable energy company that specialises in the development, construction and operation of commercial and utility‑scale solar projects. We are recruiting an Operations Manager who will work flexibly in a hybrid model out of the office in the Warrington area and on sites around the UK.

Competitive salary will be offered depending on experience, with a benefits package that includes a car allowance.

If you have experience as an Operations Manager leading the delivery of large‑scale renewable projects from early conception through to handover, we would love to hear from you. Apply today by submitting your CV.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Manage the full lifecycle of utility‑scale and C&I solar projects from concept to handover.
• Lead feasibility, planning, design, and other pre‑construction activities.
• Oversee construction works, including site activities, contractors, civil and electrical installation.
• Ensure all designs are delivered on‑site as specified and manage any deviations.
• Coordinate closely with the Contracts Manager to understand contract terms, allocate risks and manage changes.
• Develop realistic project plans, schedules, budgets, and ensure adequate resources.
• Deliver all required reporting (progress, cost, technical, safety, quality) to internal and external stakeholders.
• Identify and manage project risks early, ensuring compliance with health, safety, regulatory and environmental requirements.
• Oversee quality assurance and control, ensuring workmanship, materials and testing meet required standards.
• Ensure successful commissioning and handover (PAC/FAC), including snagging, testing, documentation and performance guarantees.

Professional Qualifications

• Relevant degree (or equivalent) in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Renewable Energy Engineering or Construction Management.
• Project Management certifications such as PRINCE2, PMP, APM or other recognised qualifications are highly desirable.
• Delivered utility‑scale solar projects in the UK (or comparable markets) from initial concept through to commissioning and handover.
• Proven ability to manage multi‑disciplinary project teams across design, construction and commissioning phases.
• Sound technical understanding of solar PV systems, grid connections (e.g. G99) and civil and electrical construction works.

Personal Skills

• Exceptionally organised, capable of overseeing multiple projects simultaneously while balancing detailed tasks with overall project goals.
• Strong expertise in contract administration, reporting, risk mitigation and quality assurance.
• Excellent communication skills combined with a hands‑on, practical approach to problem solving.
• Willingness to travel frequently to sites, with flexibility to balance field and office responsibilities.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary (dependant on experience) + Car allowance.
• Company laptop and phone provided.
• Opportunity to work across office and site environments, gaining diverse experience.
• Professional growth through managing complex projects and improving processes.
• Flexible and dynamic work environment with travel opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Astute People are acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy. We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and comply with all relevant UK legislation. We encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Astute is also committed to the government’s Disability Confident Employer initiative. We endeavour to get back to everyone; however, if you have not heard anything after 7 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.