Associate, Preconstruction

DESRI Project Management Services, L.L.C.; New York (NY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and prescription drug coverage

401(k) contribution matching

Paid time off

Wellness reimbursement

Family building benefits

Charitable gift match program

Job summary

A leading renewable energy company is seeking a Preconstruction Associate to support the planning and execution of utility-scale projects. The role involves managing cross-functional activities, coordinating with stakeholders, and developing schedules and budgets. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree and 2–5 years of experience in the field, with strong analytical and organizational skills. The annual base salary ranges from $110,000 to $130,000, in addition to benefits such as medical coverage and a bonus program.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in renewable energy, construction, engineering, or project management.
• Familiarity with utility-scale solar, wind, or energy storage projects preferred.
• Experience supporting EPC procurement or construction execution.

Responsibilities

• Support preconstruction activities across solar, storage, and wind projects.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Track and develop project schedules, budgets, and key milestones.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Proficiency in Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

About DESRI

DESRI (formerly D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments) is a market-leading owner and operator of renewable energy projects throughout the United States. We have acquired or developed approximately 11 gigawatts of contracted capacity across a portfolio of over 70 renewable energy projects in 24 states.

About the role

DESRI is seeking Preconstruction Associates to support the planning, design, and early‑stage execution of utility‑scale renewable energy projects. This role will work cross‑functionally with development, engineering, procurement, and construction teams to advance projects from late‑stage development through financial close and into construction readiness. The ideal candidate is highly organized, analytically strong, and comfortable managing multiple workstreams in a fast‑paced environment.

What you’ll do

• Support preconstruction activities across solar, storage, and wind projects, from late‑stage development through notice to proceed (NTP)
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders (Development, Engineering, Finance) and external partners (EPCs, consultants, suppliers)
• Assist in managing EPC procurement processes, including RFP development, bid evaluation, and contract negotiation
• Track and develop project schedules, budgets, and key milestones to ensure alignment with project timelines
• Support constructability reviews, site diligence, value engineering efforts, and risk assessments
• Review engineering deliverables, site plans, and technical documentation for completeness and consistency
• Assist in the development of project budgets, cost estimates, and financial models inputs
• Help manage interconnection, permitting, and site readiness considerations as they relate to construction
• Prepare internal memos, presentations, and investment committee materials
• Maintain organized documentation and data rooms for project execution

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field
• 2–5 years of experience in renewable energy, construction, engineering, or project management
• Familiarity with utility‑scale solar, wind, or energy storage projects preferred
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint; familiarity with project management tools is a plus
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience supporting EPC procurement or construction execution
• Exposure to project finance concepts or cost modeling
• Familiarity with permitting, interconnection, or grid infrastructure processes
• The expected annual base salary for this position is $110,000 - $130,000. Our compensation and benefits package includes variable compensation in the form of a year‑end bonus, guaranteed in the first year of hire, and benefits including medical and prescription drug coverage, 401(k) contribution matching, paid time off, wellness reimbursement, family building benefits, and a charitable gift match program.