Preconstruction Engineer

CoVolt Power; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

CoVolt Power in Houston, TX seeks a high-impact Preconstruction Engineer to lead conceptual design and early-stage engineering for utility-scale PV and BESS projects. You will shape EPC estimates, coordinate with estimating, procurement, and field teams, and set projects up for downstream success.

Responsibilities include optimizing site layouts, PVcase-based designs, and Basis of Design documentation, evaluating design scenarios, and communicating risks and value engineering opportunities to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Architecture, or related discipline from an accredited university.
• 3+ years in solar EPC, developer, or engineering firm
• 2+ years planning, design, and engineering of utility-scale PV and/or BESS systems
• Familiarity with interconnection, site constraints, and permitting considerations
• Understanding of construction methods and cost drivers in utility-scale solar
• Strong commercial awareness balancing technical and financial drivers
• Proficient in AutoCAD, MS Word/Excel/Outlook; PVcase, Pvsyst, Procore preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop conceptual utility-scale PV & BESS system designs, including site layouts (PVcase), single-line concepts, and alignment with project specs, codes, and performance targets
• Review client dataroom, RFP requirements, and site constraints to create actionable design criteria, identifying risks and optimization opportunities early in the pursuit phase
• Evaluate and iterate multiple design scenarios to optimize cost, schedule, energy yield, and constructability, balancing technical performance with commercial competitiveness
• Develop material takeoffs, equipment selections, and technical inputs to support accurate and competitive EPC estimates
• Collaborate cross-functionally with civil, structural, electrical, procurement, and construction teams
• Engage with OEMs, subcontractors, and vendors to support technical evaluations and pricing
• Develop clear Basis of Design (BOD) documentation for handoff to detailed engineering
• Identify and clearly communicate design intent, tradeoffs, risks, opportunities, and value engineering recommendations to internal stakeholders, clients, and external partners
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, codes, and best practices

Skills

AutoCAD

PV/BESS design

Systems thinking

Bid management

Communication

Team collaboration

Continual improvement

Positive attitude

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Tools

PVcase

Pvsyst

Procore

SharePoint

AutoCAD

Job description

CoVolt Power is seeking a high-impact PV and BESS Preconstruction Engineer to lead technical development, conceptual design, and early stage engineering for utility scale PV and BESS projects. This role is critical in shaping competitive EPC estimates and proposals, coordinating between engineering, estimating, and procurement. The Preconstruction Engineer will develop optimized, buildable, and cost-effective PV and BESS solutions that drive successful project awards and set projects up for downstream success.

Reports to:

Director, Preconstruction Design

Manages

N/A

Works closely with:

Pre-construction Management, Estimating, Detailed Engineering, Field Operations, and Procurement

Responsibilities And Accountabilities

• Lead and develop conceptual utility-scale PV & BESS system designs, including site layouts (/PVcase), single-line concepts, and, ensuring alignment with project specifications, codes, and performance targets
• Review client dataroom, RFP requirements, and site constraints to create actionable design criteria, identifying key risks, assumptions, and optimization opportunities early in the pursuit phase
• Evaluate and iterate multiple design scenarios to optimize cost, schedule, energy yield, and constructability, balancing technical performance with commercial competitiveness
• Develop material takeoffs, equipment selections, and technical inputs to support accurate and competitive EPC estimates
• Collaborate cross-functionally with civil, structural, electrical, procurement, and construction teams
• Engage with OEMs, subcontractors, and vendors to support technical evaluations and pricing
• Develop clear Basis of Design (BOD) documentation for handoff to detailed engineering
• Identify and clearly communicate design intent, tradeoffs, risks, opportunities, and value engineering recommendations to internal stakeholders, clients, and external partners
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, codes, and best practices

Attributes and Competencies

• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD (or similar CAD design tools)
• Hands-on experience with PV and BESS system design and layout development (PVcase)
• Strong technical problem-solving, working with incomplete data, and systems thinking
• Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ownership mindset with high attention to detail and quality
• Collaborative approach with cross-functional teams
• Driven by desire to continuously improve processes, tools, and technology.
• Operate with positivity and enthusiasm, especially in high-stress situations.

Required Skills And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Architecture, or related discipline from an accredited university.
• 3+ years of experience in solar EPC, developer, or engineering firm
• 2+ years of direct experience in planning, design, and engineering of utility scale PV an/or BESS systems.
• Familiarity with interconnection, site constraints, and permitting considerations
• Understanding of construction methods and cost drivers in utility-scale solar
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to balance technical and financial drivers
• Must be proficient in AutoCAD, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Preferably also have experience with SharePoint, PVcase, Pvsyst, and Procore.

“Candidates from civil, structural, or electrical engineering backgrounds with utility-scale PV experience are encouraged to apply.”

Important Interview Policy:

To ensure a focused conversation and protect the privacy of both our candidates and team members, the use of AI note-takers, recording devices, or real-time transcription software is strictly prohibited during this Interview. If an unauthorized bot joins the meeting, our team will ask for it to be removed before beginning the interview. Thank you for your cooperation!

CoVolt Power is an Equal Opportunity Employer and uses E-Verify.