Project Manager, Renewables

Job Summary: 

The Project Development Manager (PM) in Renewable and Resilient Generation is a pivotal role, responsible for the comprehensive oversight of self-build, pilot, and demonstration projects from inception through to handoff to the execution team. This role demands a high level of expertise in project management, contract negotiation, budget oversight, stakeholder coordination, and continuous improvement of development processes. The PM will work closely with Southern Company Services teams, who, as GPC’s service organization, will directly lead the development of GPC’s self-build solar and battery energy storage facilities. Additionally, the incumbent will work with GPC cross-functional teams such as Power Delivery, Environmental, Resource Planning, Regulatory, Accounting, Legal, and Area Managers to ensure project excellence, communications, and compliance with all regulatory and contractual requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate closely with Southern Company Services teams, who as GPC’s service organization will directly lead the development of GPC’s self-build solar and battery energy storage facilities.
• Act as the owner’s representative for project development, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Collaborate with solar and BESS teams to provide input on all project development meetings and activities.
• Provide support and input for the drafting, reviewing, and negotiating of Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contracts as well as battery integrator contracts.
• Provide oversight and continuous improvement of self-build development and design processes.
• Manage project scope, budget, schedule, and stakeholder interests, ensuring all aspects are aligned and optimized.
• Screen EPC bids and vendor qualifications to ensure the selection of high-quality partners.
• Prepare and provide high-level project status reports, including written reports and presentations for leadership inquiries.
• Coordinate with local area managers to train and educate employees and first responders for disaster response scenarios.
• Organize and conduct site tours of solar and BESS installations as needed.
• Communicate and report any safety concerns or hazards immediately to leadership.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide overall project management oversight, including the development of RFPs, contracts, and project agreements.
• Conduct site visits to enhance understanding of construction practices and ensure project alignment.
• Review 30%, 60%and 100% project drawings to support project design 
• Manage internal and external communications regarding project progress and issues.
• Respond to Public Service Commission (PSC) data requests and ensure accurate management reporting.
• Coordinate contractual project closeout requirements and enforce GWO closeout and work order unitization.
• Direct and support capital and O&M budget for assets from inception through Commercial Operation Date (COD).
• Ensure compliance with accounting, reporting, procurement, and legal requirements throughout the procurement process and contract lifecycle.
• Monitor and respond to critical after-hours calls and emails to ensure project continuity and address urgent issues.

Job Requirements

Education Requirements:

• Minimum four-year degree required.
• Numerous degrees will be considered with an emphasis on technical, engineering, environmental, chemistry, business or legal.

Experience Requirements:

• At least three years of technical experience within Southern Company.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: power delivery (transmission or distribution), generation, instrumentation and control (I&C), cyber security, legal, resource planning, transmission planning, construction, transmission substation or line design, environmental, regulatory, and renewable project development.
• Preferred experience in renewable energy and/or storage resource technologies.
• Experience in designing solar or battery facilities to include overall site layouts, erosion control, civil plans and electrical one lines is a plus
• Proven ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams, regardless of reporting relationships.
• Demonstrated experience in complex project management and execution.
• Experience in negotiating, writing, and enforcing contracts (EPC, RFP, O&M, and PPA).
• Proficient in coordinating, planning, and budgeting of capital and O&M projects.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Expertise in project management, negotiations, verbal and written communications, analysis, and interpersonal relations.
• Ability to optimize team effectiveness through guidance, feedback, and promoting a collaborative environment.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to anticipate and troubleshoot complex issues.
• Highly motivated, acting as a trainer and mentor, with a demonstrated ability to develop and lead teams.
• Sound judgment, entrepreneurial skills, and a proactive approach to self and team improvement.
• Knowledge of hydrology, civil engineering, geology, erosion control is a plus
• Knowledgeable in state regulatory processes, contract management, generation planning and analysis, proForma financial analysis, and project management.

Behavioral Attributes:

• Models all aspects of our values, demonstrating integrity and commitment to excellence.
• Exhibits strong project/program leadership skills, with the ability to influence and guide team effectiveness through mentorship, guidance, and feedback.
• Creates an inclusive environment that promotes creativity and intelligent risk-taking to identify and develop new growth opportunities.
• Displays strong critical thinking skills, including problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Shows motivation and a desire to learn new technologies, including attending training, conferences, and webcasts.
• Exhibits excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey information compellingly and convincingly to audiences at all levels.
• Demonstrates innovative thinking and a desire to improve processes and programs.
• Shows strong initiative and the ability to self-direct, creating an atmosphere of excitement where people are motivated, challenged, encouraged, and rewarded to produce results.
• Effectively leads change and manages projects, resources, and people in a dynamic business environment.