Sr Manager, Operations
Senior Manager / Director, Operations (Utility-Scale Solar)
We are seeking an experienced Senior Manager / Director of Operations to provide commercial and operational leadership for a growing portfolio of utility-scale solar assets across the United States. This individual will be responsible for optimizing asset performance, overseeing operational strategy, managing budgets and contracts, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring a combination of renewable energy operations expertise, strong business acumen, and experience managing large-scale power generation assets in a performance-driven environment. This person will serve as the primary operational owner of the portfolio, ensuring decisions align with financial objectives, contractual obligations, stakeholder expectations, and long-term asset value.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the operational and commercial performance of utility-scale solar and energy storage assets.
- Drive initiatives that improve generation, availability, reliability, safety, and profitability across the portfolio.
- Develop and execute strategies to maximize asset performance and long-term value.
- Manage operating budgets, forecasts, business plans, and long-term financial objectives.
- Monitor operational KPIs and financial metrics while promoting accountability and continuous improvement.
- Oversee relationships with O&M providers, EPC contractors, OEMs, utilities, and other key vendors.
- Ensure compliance with PPAs, interconnection agreements, warranties, service agreements, and other contractual obligations.
- Support contract negotiations, performance reviews, and resolution of commercial issues.
- Serve as a key point of contact for investors, lenders, regulatory agencies, and utility partners.
- Evaluate and support strategic initiatives including acquisitions, divestitures, refinancing activities, and capital improvement projects.
- Partner closely with finance, accounting, and asset management teams to achieve portfolio objectives.
- Ensure all sites meet safety, energy availability, and operational performance targets.
- Oversee maintenance strategies, warranty management, vegetation management, and non-covered service activities.
- Track and resolve performance issues across the portfolio, providing regular updates to leadership.
- Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual operational reporting.
- Coordinate asset turnover activities from construction into operations, including punch list closeout and deliverable completion.
- Lead site visits, operational reviews, and special project initiatives as needed.
- Support the development and implementation of self-perform operations and maintenance capabilities.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or a related quantitative field.
- Advanced degree or professional certifications (PMP, CFA, CPA, etc.) preferred.
- 10+ years of experience in industrial or power generation operations.
- 7+ years of experience supporting utility-scale solar operations.
- Previous leadership and team management experience required.
- Strong understanding of renewable energy markets, industry trends, and evolving technologies.
- Demonstrated commercial mindset with strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
- Knowledge of NEC requirements, electrical systems, SCADA systems, and utility-scale solar operations.
- Ability to interpret electrical drawings, schematics, and one-line diagrams.
- Experience analyzing plant performance and utilizing software tools to identify and resolve operational issues.
- Familiarity with PV systems, medium-voltage infrastructure, communications networks, and monitoring platforms.
- Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to influence and drive results across multiple stakeholders.
- Knowledge of industrial safety programs and quality management practices.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard business applications.
- Ability to travel as needed.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with resume and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.