Area Manager, Field Operations

National Grid Renewables is a full-service renewable energy company headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. National Grid Renewables has developed over 2,400 megawatts of wind and solar projects that are either operational or currently under construction throughout the United States. National Grid Renewables has a multi-gigawatt development pipeline of wind and solar projects in various stages of development throughout the United States. National Grid Renewables provides custom solutions for utilities and corporations looking to harness renewable energy for business growth. With deep roots in agriculture, National Grid Renewables prides itself on developing renewable energy projects that are farmer-friendly, community-driven, and beneficial for rural communities.

Position Description

National Grid Renewables is looking for an Area Manager to join our team. The Area Manager, Field Operations will be responsible for oversight and direction for the safe and reliable operation of multiple operational solar sites near Northern Ohio. This position is responsible for leading a safe, high performing operations team of technicians. The Area Manager, Field Operations will implement process initiatives and support daily operations with the resources and tools needed to optimize National Grid Renewables generation assets. The role will encompass setting and achieving business area goals that align with the overall company goals and metrics which focus on safety, reliability and fiscal responsibility. The Area Manager will report to the Regional Director, Field Operations.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the solar plant provides maximum availability/reliability in a safe, economical, and proactive manner by providing direction and supervision to operations personnel.
• Ensure strict management and compliance of all company and project environmental, health and safety (EHS) programs.
• Communicate regularly with various departments: environmental health & safety, engineering, asset management, and other personnel to ensure satisfaction of internal/external customer requirements.
• Assist with hiring key personnel, establish training, work and safety procedures, maintenance schedules, and other critical areas required as part of self-performance of operations and maintenance.
• Perform staffing activities, counseling, coaching, training, and corrective actions of subordinate employees. Prepare performance evaluations per company instructions and guidelines.
• Manage site environmental permits and site vegetation management strategy
• Assist team with NERC compliance and other regulatory requirements as determined.
• Assist in preparing annual budget for solar sites and maintain operating expenses within.
• Participate in and promote job/work package safety analysis, job site safety observations, audits, safety meetings, safety training, and injury/event assessment.
• Oversee plant performance and assist with troubleshooting, repairs, maintenance, and warranty activities/claims of all equipment, ensuring compliance with manufacturers' requirements.
• Prepare weekly/monthly reports which include but are not limited to, project status, plant statistics, expenses, and adherence to contractual requirements.
• Assist with performing QA/QC of the project while still in the construction phase and ensure successful transition from construction to operations.
• Participate/lead in the development and revision of site procedures ensuring input from subject matter experts.
• Set up sites for proper tooling, inventory, spare parts, and other equipment necessary to perform efficiently and effectively.
• Administer warranties. Submit and track warranty claims. Track all on loan parts and reconcile with appropriate parties.
• Manage implementation of capital improvement programs, retrofits and operations initiatives.
• Participate in root cause analysis and present findings to cross-functional teams, including executive management.
• Manage inventory and work with suppliers on parts reorder, perform cycle counts of inventory.

• Occasional travel to other plants or locations to support maintenance, troubleshooting, retrofits support other campaigns or for training and meetings.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Four-year college degree or technical school certificate; or 5 years of related experience or power industry training; or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience in electrical facility operations and maintenance including a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a broad range of renewable or other power generation development, design, permitting, construction, or operations. Experience within the renewable industry, in addition to solar is preferred.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience leading a direct team or group of employees and ability to work effectively in collaboration with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Advanced computer skills utilizing word processing, spreadsheets, email, facility control, management and reporting systems, including the use of computerized diagnostic and troubleshooting tools.
• Self-directed, motivated, goal oriented, and mission driven with a positive attitude.
• Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and develop direct reports to be people leaders.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as needed
• Ability to work in extremely adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to work around low and medium voltage.
• Proficient interpreting electrical schematics and prints.
• Must live within 200 miles of all sites in the area and expected to be at a site location 60% of the working week.
• Willing to work overtime on holidays, weekends, and on short notice

Preference may be given to candidates with the following:

• Experience in solar plant operations.
• Experience in high voltage maintenance and switching & ability to run test equipment for troubleshooting.
• Experience establishing and improving preventative maintenance programs.
• Experience working with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
• Previous supervisory or management experience.
• Demonstrated leadership experience

Pay Range for the posted level: Minimum of $120,000.00 - 170,000.00
We offer a comprehensive benefit package, including Medical, Dental, 401(k) and disability benefits.

National Grid Renewables believe fostering diversity, equity and inclusion is everyone’s responsibility. Open, honest and respectful ways of working, learning and communicating are the cornerstones of a successful business, and leveraging inclusion and diversity lead to better business results. At National Grid Renewables, we’re focused on creating a work environment where our people feel respected and included, and therefore empowered to be themselves.