Are you passionate about utilizing energy from renewable resources like the movement of water, sunlight, or wind? Do you have a degree in engineering, construction management, architecture, biochemistry, or another related field? Do you enjoy communicating with stakeholders to ensure a project is moving along and in the right direction?  

If the answer to all or most of these questions is yes, then you are in the right place! 

What Will I Do as a Renewable Energy Project Manager?

A renewable energy project manager typically oversees renewable energy initiatives from inception to completion. This means they establish the goals and strategies, map out an appropriate timeline, and ensure the project stays on track and within the allocated budget. 

Renewable energy project managers frequently interact with internal and external stakeholders. This includes overseeing the project team and any contractors, acting as the main contact for suppliers or vendors, managing and coordinating operations, and ensuring the project is completed on schedule and within the appropriate budget and scope. 

Key responsibilities:

• Lead project execution, including scope, schedule, and budget
  • Ensure team members are not going outside of scope
  • Prepare timelines and make sure deadlines are met
  • Develop and oversee the project budget
• Ensure quality control of deliverables
• Manage client relationships
• Conduct site investigations 
• Research feasibility
• Produce progress reports on project status
• Manage proposals from subcontractors
• Identify possible risks and strategize solutions

What Skills Do I Need To Succeed as a Renewable Energy Project Manager?

Communication with internal and external stakeholders will be required, so excellent communication skills will set you apart when applying for jobs in this role. You will also need strong leadership and organization skills, as you will be responsible for leading a team and managing the overall project plan.

Make sure to highlight project management and project completion experience in your resume and in interviews. This will show the hiring manager you have successfully seen projects through from start to finish. 

Resume content example: Developed and oversaw project roadmaps and budget, led project team engagement and accountability, communicated project status with relevant stakeholders, and ensured smooth completion of project.

Important skills to prioritize:

• Effective communication 
• Leadership and management
• Planning and organization
• Scheduling and time management
• Negotiation and business development
• Contracting and financial expertise
• Risk management 
• Critical thinking and problem solving

What Is the Salary of a Renewable Energy Project Manager?

The estimated total pay, according to Glassdoor, is $105,772 per year in the United States, with an average salary of $76,175 per year. The estimated additional pay is $29,597 per year, which can include a cash bonus, commission, tips, and profit sharing. 

The estimated range of total pay is from $80,000 to $141,000.

What Is the Job Outlook for a Renewable Energy Project Manager?

The good news is, the job outlook for this role is strong, as a DOE report found energy jobs grew faster than overall U.S. employment in 2021. Jobs in this sector are in high demand, with another report finding renewable energy jobs growing across every U.S. energy sector in 2021. According to Green Citizen, the high demand is due to more and more countries shifting from fossil fuels to renewables. The growth is expected to continue, so there should be no shortage of jobs or growth within the industry.

Where Can I Apply?

Now that you’ve learned all about the role of a renewable energy project manager, you’re probably ready to dive right in and start applying. However, finding qualified job postings can be difficult, especially if you’re newer to the industry and don’t know what to expect. If you’re completing your job hunt on your own, make sure to thoroughly research the company to ensure it is a good fit. 

Don’t have time for the stress of finding a new job? TruPath is here to match you with the perfect renewable energy project manager role through our customized search that will meet your specific needs. Our elevated approach has allowed us to fill over 16,000 senior-level roles, so feel free to get in touch with us today to find the role that’s right for you.

Overall, the renewable energy project manager role is in high demand with high responsibility but a great reward. If you think you have what it takes to oversee renewable energy projects from inception to completion, then this may be the job for you. 

Contact TruPath or submit your resume today to find the role that’s best suited for you.