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H9 Talent Solutions are currently looking to recruit a Preconstruction Manager on a permanent full-time basis, to join a major renewable energy EPC contractor. The role is available on a hybrid basis with some office work required in Irvine, California and some homework available depending on circumstances. Role Overview The Pre-Construction Manager will play a crucial role in the early phases of utility-scale renewable energy projects (e.g., solar, wind, energy storage). This person will lead cost estimating, risk analysis, EPC contractor bid processes, scheduling, and feasibility assessments, ensuring that projects move into execution with a solid commercial and technical foundation. The Pre-Construction Manager will work closely with development, engineering, procurement, construction, and finance teams to de-risk projects. Key Responsibilities: Estimate & Cost Development Develop detailed EPC cost estimates (civil, electrical, structural, BOP) for utility-scale renewable projects. Perform quantity take-offs, unit cost modeling, risk contingency analysis. Maintain and update a cost database of labor, materials, and subcontracts. Bid Management & Contractor Engagement Prepare and issue RFPs to EPC contractors, subcontractors, and major equipment suppliers. Coordinate technical and commercial Q&A during bidding. Analyze bid responses, perform cost comparisons, and make recommendations for EPC contractor selection. Contract Negotiation Negotiate EPC, BOP, and supply contracts, including key commercial terms, risk allocation, deliverables, milestones, and payment terms. Work with legal, procurement, and construction stakeholders to align contract terms with internal standards and project goals. Schedule & Risk Analysis Develop preliminary construction schedules in collaboration with engineering and construction teams. Identify constructability risks (site access, logistics, utilities, permitting), develop mitigation plans, and track these in a risk register. Support interconnection planning, permitting, and other long-lead activities. Feasibility & Site Assessment Perform site feasibility analyses (desktop and site visits), reviewing geotechnical, topographical, and environmental inputs. Coordinate with surveyors, geotech, and engineering to assess constructability. Cross-Functional Collaboration Liaise with Development, Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance teams to align on project assumptions. Present pre-construction deliverables (estimates, schedules, risk assessments) to senior leadership and stakeholders. Process Improvement & Tools Develop and improve internal estimating tools, templates, workflows, and reporting formats. Contribute to continuous improvement of pre-construction processes, benchmarks, and best practices. Reporting & Documentation Maintain and report on pre-construction metrics (cost variance, bid pipeline, risk status). Prepare executive-level presentations, bid summary reports, and post-bid analysis. Required Qualifications & Experience: Bachelor's degree in engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related discipline. Minimum 5-8 years of relevant experience in pre-construction, estimating, or project management, ideally in renewable energy (solar, wind, BESS) or EPC construction. Proven track record of cost estimating, bid management, contract negotiation, and risk assessment in large-scale construction projects. Strong understanding of renewable energy technologies (solar PV, wind, energy storage), including relevant design, logistics, and construction issues. Proficiency in estimating tools, Microsoft Excel, and project scheduling software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project). Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written; ability to present complex technical and commercial information to senior stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risk. Willingness to travel (site visits, EPC contractor meetings) as needed. Experience working cross-functionally in a matrixed organization. Desirable / Nice-to-Have: Master's degree or relevant further education. Experience with GIS (e.g., ArcGIS), AutoCAD / CAD, PV-specific software (e.g., PVSyst), or financial modeling. Familiarity with project finance: offtake, capital structure, or LCOE drivers. Previous experience working on EPC contracts in the U.S., understanding of U.S. construction law and contracting norms. Compensation & Benefits • Salary- US$150,000 - US$180,000 per annum. • Bonus / Incentive: Performance-based bonus (e.g., annual or project-based) expected. • Benefits: Health, dental, vision; retirement plan (e.g., 401k) matching; paid time off; travel allowance; professional development.