Role Overview for Director of EPC Operations – Solar & Wind Construction
The Director of EPC Operations is a senior leadership position responsible for the overall management, direction, and strategic execution of all Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) activities for our client’s utility-scale solar and wind projects. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), this individual will oversee the entire project lifecycle from the pre-construction phase through to final commissioning and handover. You will be tasked with building and leading a world-class EPC organization, establishing best-in-class processes, and fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and accountability. The Director will ensure that all projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety, thereby solidifying the company’s reputation as a leader in renewable energy development and construction. This role requires a dynamic leader who can manage a diverse portfolio of complex, multi-million-dollar projects while simultaneously contributing to the long-term strategic growth of the company.
Key Responsibilities of Director of EPC Operations – Solar & Wind Construction
Strategic Leadership & Departmental Management
Develop and implement the overarching EPC strategy in alignment with corporate goals. Establish departmental KPIs, operational objectives, and long-range plans. Lead, mentor, and expand a high-performing team of project managers, construction managers, engineers, and support staff, fostering a collaborative and results-driven culture.
Full Project Lifecycle Oversight
Assume ultimate responsibility for the entire portfolio of solar and wind construction projects, from initial design and procurement to mechanical completion and commissioning. Ensure seamless coordination between engineering, procurement, and construction functions to optimize project timelines and resource allocation.
Financial & Budgetary Control
Oversee the development of detailed project budgets, schedules, and cost forecasts. Meticulously manage project financials, ensuring strict adherence to budgets and implementing robust cost-control measures. Approve major expenditures and manage financial reporting to the executive team, providing clear visibility into project performance and profitability.
Risk Management and Mitigation
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks across the project portfolio, including contractual, financial, technical, and scheduling risks. Develop and implement comprehensive risk management plans and contingency strategies to protect project outcomes and company interests.
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Leadership
Champion and enforce a zero-incident safety culture across all project sites and offices. Ensure rigorous compliance with all federal, state, and local safety regulations (including OSHA). Oversee the development and implementation of industry-leading HSE programs and procedures.
Quality Assurance & Quality Control (QA/QC)
Establish and maintain the highest standards of quality for all construction activities. Develop and manage a comprehensive QA/QC program to ensure that all work, materials, and installations meet or exceed design specifications, contractual requirements, and industry best practices.
Contract & Vendor Management
Lead the negotiation and administration of all major EPC contracts, subcontracts, and procurement agreements. Oversee the qualification, selection, and performance management of EPC contractors, key suppliers, and consulting engineers. Cultivate strong, strategic relationships with partners to ensure reliability and value.
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
Serve as the primary liaison for all EPC-related matters, providing clear, consistent, and professional communication to internal stakeholders (including Development, Finance, and Asset Management teams) and external partners (including clients, investors, utilities, and regulatory bodies). Prepare and present detailed project status reports to the executive leadership team.
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
Drive the continuous improvement of EPC processes, systems, and best practices. Stay abreast of emerging technologies, construction methodologies, and industry trends in solar and wind energy to enhance project efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain a competitive edge.
Requirements for the Director of EPC Operations – Solar & Wind Construction
Required Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in heavy industrial or large-scale energy construction project management.
- At least 10 years of direct experience in the renewable energy sector, with a proven track record of successfully delivering multiple utility-scale solar (PV) and/or onshore wind projects from start to finish.
- A minimum of 7 years in a significant leadership role, managing large, multi-disciplinary teams and overseeing a portfolio of projects.
- Expert-level understanding of the complete EPC project lifecycle, project controls (cost, scheduling, estimating), and construction management principles.
- Demonstrable experience managing complex, multi-million-dollar project budgets with a strong command of financial analysis and reporting.
- In-depth knowledge of construction contracts, including EPC, design-build, and BOP agreements. Proven ability to negotiate favorable terms and manage contractual obligations effectively.
- Unwavering commitment to safety, with expert knowledge of OSHA standards and a history of leading successful safety programs.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and motivate teams and manage complex stakeholder relationships.
- Willingness and ability to travel frequently to project sites across the country as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
- A Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science (MS) in a relevant field.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license and/or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
- Experience with projects incorporating Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
- Proficiency with industry-standard project management software such as Primavera P6 and Procore.
- Existing network of relationships with key contractors, suppliers, and consultants in the US renewable energy market.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package. This includes:
- A competitive base salary and significant performance-based annual bonus potential.
- Equity participation or Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP).
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
- Support for professional development, including certifications, conferences, and continuing education.
- Relocation assistance may be available for the ideal candidate.
- The opportunity to hold a high-impact leadership role in a fast-growing company that is central to the clean energy transition.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to partner with this industry leader to fill this critical Director of EPC Operations role. We are seeking a visionary construction executive with a deep passion for renewable energy and a proven ability to deliver excellence. If you possess the experience, leadership qualities, and drive to lead a premier EPC organization, we strongly encourage you to apply.
To explore this opportunity further, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your specific experience with utility-scale solar and wind projects. For more information on our dedicated recruiting practice in this dynamic sector, we invite you to visit our Renewable Energy & Cleantech Practice Area. Join us in building the future of energy.
