Crete United is committed to building a more sustainable future. We’re focused on teamwork, integrity, and growth as we help communities and clients transition to renewable energy and energy-efficient solutions. We’re looking for proactive problem-solvers who can take ownership of both project development and preconstruction estimating to help drive our energy services business forward.
Job Overview:
The Solar Project Development Estimator will lead early-stage solar project development efforts while supporting detailed financial modeling and estimating for renewable energy projects. This role combines site evaluation, permitting, preliminary estimating and subcontractor proposal reviews.
The position reports directly to Crete United’s Energy Services Team and plays a key role in advancing projects from concept through preconstruction handoff.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify and evaluate potential solar project sites, conduct feasibility studies, and manage due diligence activities.
- Lead the permitting and regulatory approval process, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal requirements.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with landowners, utilities, permitting authorities, and other stakeholders.
- Negotiate site control agreements, land leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and interconnection contracts.
- Collaborate with EPC teams and internal resources to align design, procurement, and construction planning.
- Support the development of financial models and project pro formas by reviewing preliminary cost estimates and conceptual budgets.
- Review partner and subcontractor proposals for accuracy and completeness.
- Track material, labor, and subcontractor costs to maintain current cost databases and inform project budgeting.
- Assist in preparing bid packages, contract exhibits, and documentation required for project handoff to construction teams.
- Monitor project timelines, budgets, and risks during the development phase to support seamless project execution.
- Stay current with renewable energy trends, product innovations, and market cost drivers.
Qualifications:
- 5+ years of experience in solar project development, preconstruction estimating, or renewable energy project management.
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of site development, permitting, utility coordination, and stakeholder management.
- Understanding of conceptual estimates, budgets, and quantity takeoffs for solar or energy related projects.
- Knowledge of vendor and subcontractor bid processes and contract negotiations.
- Proficient in project management and estimating software tools.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to travel as needed.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
Crete United is an equal opportunity employer, considering all applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, physical disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by state of federal law. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
