Head of Construction

Climate17 | B Corp™; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual performance bonus

Employee share ownership program

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with employer contribution

Generous PTO and flexible work arrangements

Leadership development opportunities

Job summary

A leading renewable energy developer in Chicago is seeking a Head of Construction to lead project delivery across their solar and battery energy storage initiatives. The role requires overseeing EPC relationships, ensuring timely projects, and supporting equitable energy access. A minimum of 10 years in renewable energy construction is needed, alongside a relevant degree. The position is full-time and offers comprehensive benefits, including competitive salary and relocation assistance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years’ experience in renewable energy or utility-scale construction.
• Proven community or C&I solar project delivery experience required.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex construction timelines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee EPC relationships and manage project delivery.
• Manage site progress, QA/QC, procurement, and construction reporting.
• Lead contract negotiations with vendors and contractors.
• Conduct monthly site visits during final build phases.

Skills

Renewable energy construction experience

Community or C&I solar project delivery

Battery storage project experience

Management of EPC partners

Proactive approach

Passion for equitable energy access

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or related discipline

Job description

This range is provided by Climate17. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$180,000.00/yr - $240,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from Climate17

A purpose‑driven renewable energy developer is seeking a Head of Construction to lead construction delivery across its growing portfolio of distributed solar and battery energy storage projects. This organization is guided by a clear mission to expand community‑scale clean energy infrastructure and reinvest in local and underserved communities. With strong project fundamentals, and a defined five‑year growth plan, the company combines technical excellence with a strong social purpose.

The Opportunity

The Head of Construction will oversee EPC relationships and manage project delivery from notice‑to‑proceed through commissioning.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage EPC and O&M partners across all active and upcoming solar and storage sites.
• Oversee site progress, QA/QC, procurement, and construction reporting.
• Lead contract negotiation and relationship management with vendors and contractors.
• Conduct regular site visits (monthly, increasing during final build phases).
• Build scalable systems and processes to support growth and operational excellence.
• Liaise with internal teams to ensure on‑time, on‑budget project delivery.
• Typical project sizes range from 1–5 MW Solar & BESS.

Skillset Required

• Minimum 10+ years’ experience in renewable energy or utility‑scale construction, with proven community or C&I solar project delivery.
• Experience in battery storage or data center projects is strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or a related discipline is required.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple EPC partners and complex construction timelines.
• Entrepreneurial, proactive, and passionate about equitable energy access.
• Supportive of a diverse and inclusive workplace, particularly encouraging female applicants.
• Competitive salary dependent on experience.
• Annual performance bonus and participation in an employee share ownership program.
• Relocation assistance.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with employer contribution.
• Generous PTO, flexible work arrangements, and leadership development opportunities.

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose‑led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organizations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonization of the energy sector.

Inclusive Application Process

Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace. We believe there is no solution to climate change without people. 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 in order to participate in the job application or interview process, please let us know.

Seniority level Director

Employment type Full‑time

Industries Services for Renewable Energy and Construction

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Climate17 by 2x