Preconstruction Engineer

The Preconstruction Engineer provides Project pursuit and pre-mobilization planning support to the Preconstruction Manager and pursuit team. This individual will be responsible for supporting assigned pursuits, estimating reviews, engineering reviews, optimization initiatives, procurement support and general understanding of overall utility-scale solar project execution and the associated preconstruction planning. Your role will primarily be as an internal technical resource, working for a self-perform EPC Contractor.
Essential Functions

• Responsible for preconstruction planning for renewable energy construction projects.
• Support estimating, engineering and procurement Project teams, as assigned.
• Builds relationships with engineering partners, customers and other company departments in support of resolving issues during design and/or pre-bid phases.
• Support the customer communications alongside the Preconstruction Manager, during the preconstruction phase of the project.
• Review drawings, specifications and all other construction documents and communicate issues, accuracy of information, and potential EPC risks in a timely manner.
• Support the internal estimating process and associated questions from the customer.
• Supports design meetings and interface with our engineering partners, in support of generating the IFC design documents, as bid.
• Generate preliminary PV layouts in CAD/PVcase, in support of Customer communication and some internal estimating activities.
• Support engineering analyses of both AC & DC electrical architecture, for estimating, procurement and engineering of Utility-Scale PV facilities.
• Capable of utilizing PV modeling tools such as PVsyst and Plant Predict to model and optimize plant performance.
• Assure that potential risk factors related to engineering, procurement and project execution have been evaluated and reviewed with the pursuit team.

• Support the Manager with assembly of change orders, including cost assessment, schedule impacts, and preparation of potential claims with vendors and consultants.

• Ability to interpret the project schedule to identify required equipment delivery dates, pricing, submittals, engineering approvals and procurement schedules.
• Support the Manager with the pursuit and engineering phase for up to two (2) projects simultaneously.
• Creates and maintains a continuous improvement loop to monitor performance and improvement opportunities.
• Coordinates with internal project stakeholders from middle management to C-level stakeholders.
• All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to effectively manage, execute and prioritize deliverables with schedule constraints.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or Construction Engineering related field.
• Professional Engineering license / education not required or necessary.
• Professional written and verbal communication skills are required.
• Possessing the ability to professionally interact with clients, Ames personnel, subcontractors and suppliers.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Prior experience working on utility scale renewable energy projects is a plus.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Bluebeam, Procore and construction related software programs.
• Ability to identify, elevate and assist with solving problems related to project pursuits, proposals, design, construction planning, procurement and scheduling.
• Minimum of two years of experience in Project Management or Engineering of construction Projects is preferred.

Working Conditions

• Position is located in Burnsville, MN. This is not a remote/hybrid position.
• 10-20% travel is required. Projects are nationally based.
• Construction Site Environment - physical ability to stand, walk, crawl, bend, reach and climb. Exposed to high noise levels.
• Office Environment - extensive sitting at desk and computer; some standing, bending at the waist, stooping and reaching required; ability to lift 5-20 pounds occasionally.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.