Director of Construction in Utility-Scale Solar

Director of Construction in Utility-Scale Solar
Location: Washington DC (office-based hybrid)
Salary: $180,000–$200,000 base, with flexibility for standout applicants
Employment Type: Full-time
Travel: Up to 25% across Virginia and the mid-Atlantic region

A growing renewable energy IPP is seeking an experienced Director of Construction to oversee a portfolio of utility-scale solar construction projects. Based in Washington DC, this role will lead construction strategy, execution, and team management across multiple projects, ensuring delivery to high standards of safety, quality, schedule, and budget.

The successful candidate will bring deep commercial construction experience, strong leadership capability, and the ability to manage complex project execution in a fast-paced environment. This is a high-impact role suited to someone who can balance day-to-day delivery with strategic oversight and operational improvement.

Role Overview
The Director of Construction will oversee and coordinate all aspects of the company’s construction portfolio, from pre-construction through closeout. This role involves leading project teams, managing contractors and vendors, strengthening supply chain relationships, and driving consistent execution across large-scale solar construction programs.

This is a senior leadership position that requires strong organisational skills, a practical approach to problem-solving, and the ability to support and develop high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and direct day-to-day operations and strategic direction for large utility-scale solar construction programs.
• Lead, manage, and develop staff across multiple construction projects.
• Provide guidance and leadership to ensure projects meet or exceed company expectations.
• Maintain and develop best-in-class policies and procedures.
• Build and maintain strong supply chain relationships.
• Direct multiple external vendors per project, including General Contractors, A&E firms, commissioning agents, and equipment suppliers.
• Lead high-value relationship management across internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop and execute effective contract administration processes, including prime contracts, subcontracts, change orders, cost forecasts, and supporting documentation.
• Support and coordinate project teams including Project Managers, Project Management Assistants, Site Superintendents, and subcontractors.
• Manage all phases of construction from pre-construction through project closeout.
• Ensure strong communication and alignment across all stakeholders.

Candidate Profile

• 8 years of experience in commercial construction project management or development.
• Degree in Construction Management or a related field preferred; relevant experience considered in lieu of formal education.
• Experience in utility-scale solar construction strongly preferred.
• PMP or other project management certification is preferred.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and external contractors.
• Strong contract administration and construction execution experience.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, vendors, and priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent communication, relationship-management, and leadership skills.
• Comfortable operating in a dynamic, fast-moving environment.

What’s on Offer

• Base salary of $180,000–$200,000, with flexibility for exceptional candidates.
• Opportunity to lead major utility-scale solar construction projects.
• Senior leadership role with significant visibility and impact.
• Strong team environment with scope to shape process and performance.
• Good benefits package and equity scheme.

About Us
Climate17 is a purpose-led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organisations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonisation 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.