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Job Title: Plant Manager - Solar Industry

Location: Mascoutah, IL 62258

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview:

• Our client is seeking an experienced and results-driven Plant Manager to oversee the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of a 150 MW solar facility located near Mascoutah, Illinois. This leadership role is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the plant while leading a high-performing team of Field Technicians focused on safety, operational excellence, reliability, and fiscal responsibility.

• The Plant Manager will oversee operations and maintenance activities, budget management, outage coordination, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational strategy. This individual will play a critical role in ensuring the facility operates in accordance with Prudent Utility Practices and company performance standards.

• This position reports directly to the Regional Director of Field Operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operations & Plant Performance

• Lead the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the solar facility to maximize plant availability and performance

• Oversee day-to-day operations, preventative maintenance, and corrective maintenance activities

• Coordinate outages and maintenance schedules with interconnect entities and internal stakeholders

• Monitor plant performance and assist with troubleshooting, repairs, and warranty-related activities

• Ensure all maintenance and operational activities comply with manufacturer recommendations and operational standards

Leadership & Team Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Field Technicians and operations personnel

• Manage staffing, scheduling, coaching, performance evaluations, and corrective actions

• Establish training programs, operational procedures, and safety protocols

• Foster a culture centered on accountability, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement

Safety & Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure strict adherence to all Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) programs and procedures

• Participate in safety audits, observations, meetings, training, and incident investigations

• Support NERC compliance efforts and other applicable regulatory requirements

• Manage site environmental permits and vegetation management programs

Budgeting & Reporting:

• Assist in preparing and managing the annual operating budget

• Maintain operating expenses within approved financial targets

• Prepare weekly and monthly operational reports, including plant performance metrics, expenses, project updates, and compliance reporting

Asset & Maintenance Management:

• Maintain accurate documentation and maintenance records within the company's CMMS platform

• Oversee inventory management, spare parts tracking, cycle counts, and supplier coordination

• Administer warranties, manage claims, and track loaned equipment and replacement parts

• Support implementation of capital improvement initiatives, retrofits, and operational enhancement projects

Project & Construction Support:

• Assist with QA/QC activities during project construction and support successful turnover to operations

• Participate in root cause analysis and present findings to cross-functional and executive teams

• Support site setup for tooling, inventory, equipment, and operational readiness

Additional Responsibilities:

• Travel occasionally to other plant locations for maintenance support, troubleshooting, training, or meetings

• Perform additional duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree, technical school certification, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in power generation, renewable energy, electrical facility operations, or related industries

• Demonstrated experience in operations and maintenance within renewable energy or power generation environments

• Minimum of 2 years of leadership or supervisory experience managing teams

• Strong understanding of electrical systems, troubleshooting, and maintenance practices

• Ability to interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, CMMS platforms, reporting systems, and computerized diagnostic tools

• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills

• Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and capable of working independently in a fast-paced environment

• Valid driver's license with the ability to travel as needed

• Ability to work in adverse weather conditions and around low- and medium-voltage systems

• Must reside within 60 miles or approximately 60 minutes of the plant location

• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, holidays, and respond on short notice when necessary

Preferred Qualifications:

• Direct experience in solar plant operations

• Experience with high-voltage maintenance, switching, and electrical testing equipment

• Experience developing and improving preventative maintenance programs

• Experience working with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)

• Previous plant management or supervisory leadership experience

Compensation & Benefits:

• Our client offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and disability insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Paid time off and holidays

• Career advancement opportunities within the renewable energy industry