Director Engineering

SunEnergy1; Bethel (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

SunEnergy1 is seeking an experienced Director of Engineering to lead engineering activities for utility-scale solar and energy infrastructure projects. This role will oversee engineering resources and external consultants, ensuring safe and compliant project designs.

The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of engineering experience, including 5 years in leadership positions, strong communication skills, and a solid understanding of project management in renewable energy.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems and utility standards.
• Knowledge of industry codes such as NEC, NESC, IEEE, NFPA.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all engineering functions for solar and energy infrastructure projects.
• Oversee design development, engineering reviews, and technical due diligence.
• Manage relationships with engineering consultants, utilities, and regulators.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Communication

Renewable Energy Project Development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree in Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Job description

Position Summary

SunEnergy1 is seeking an experienced Director of Engineering to lead all engineering activities supporting the development, design, construction, and operation of utility‑scale solar, battery energy storage (BESS), and related energy infrastructure projects. This role will oversee internal engineering resources and external consultants, ensuring projects are designed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable codes, standards, and utility requirements.

The Director of Engineering will serve as the technical authority for the organization and collaborate closely with Development, EPC, Operations, Procurement, and Executive Leadership teams to successfully execute projects from initial feasibility through commercial operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all engineering functions for solar, BESS, and energy infrastructure projects.
• Oversee project design development, engineering reviews, value engineering, and technical due diligence.
• Manage relationships with engineering consultants, EPC contractors, utilities, equipment manufacturers, and regulatory agencies.
• Establish engineering standards, design criteria, specifications, and quality control processes.
• Review and approve civil, structural, electrical, mechanical, and interconnection designs.
• Support project development activities including site feasibility, utility coordination, and permitting.
• Provide technical leadership during procurement and equipment selection processes.
• Coordinate engineering deliverables to support project schedules and construction milestones.
• Identify design risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Support construction teams with technical issue resolution, RFIs, design modifications, and commissioning activities.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and industry best practices to improve project performance and reduce costs.
• Develop and manage engineering budgets, schedules, and resource planning.
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing engineering team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Civil, Mechanical, or related discipline); Master's degree preferred.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
• 10+ years of engineering experience with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience with utility-scale solar, battery energy storage systems, substations, transmission, or related energy infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems, interconnection requirements, utility standards, and renewable energy project development.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary engineering teams and external consultants.
• Knowledge of NEC, NESC, IEEE, NFPA, IBC, and applicable industry standards.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously.
• Strong financial, analytical, project management, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.

Preferred Experience

• Utility-scale solar projects exceeding 50 MW.
• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
• Substation and interconnection engineering.
• EPC contractor coordination and construction support.
• Experience with PJM, MISO, ERCOT, Duke Energy, Dominion, or other major utility interconnection processes.