Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas Career Overview

As a Renewable Energy Construction Manager, you play a vital role in the development and implementation of renewable energy projects. Your position involves overseeing the construction phase of various energy initiatives, such as solar farms, wind turbines, or bioenergy facilities.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Monitoring project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure completion within specified parameters.
  • Coordinating with engineers, architects, and contractors to facilitate smooth project workflows and communication.
  • Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, as well as industry standards relevant to renewable energy.
  • Managing on-site teams, providing guidance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed to maintain a secure working environment.
  • Liaising with stakeholders, including government officials and environmental organizations, to promote project transparency and community engagement.

Your role is increasingly important as the renewable energy sector expands in Texas. The state's commitment to sustainable energy solutions necessitates effective project management to maximize efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and contribute to the energy transition. Your efforts directly support the growth of clean energy infrastructure, making a significant contribution toward reducing carbon footprints and fostering innovation within the industry.

Renewable Energy Construction Manager Salary in Texas

Annual Median: $67,650
Hourly Median: $32.52

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas

To become a Renewable Energy Construction Manager, you typically need a relevant educational background and training. Here are the specific college degree programs that will prepare you for this career:

  • Construction Management: This program focuses on the principles of construction processes, project management, and contract administration. It provides you with the knowledge to oversee construction projects from inception to completion.

  • Construction Engineering Technology: A degree in this field combines engineering principles with construction practices. It equips you with skills to apply engineering knowledge to solve construction-related problems and manage project execution effectively.

  • Energy Systems Engineering: This program emphasizes the design, implementation, and maintenance of energy systems. It covers various energy sources, including renewable options, ensuring you understand the technical aspects of energy projects.

  • Environmental Engineering: An environmental engineering degree will provide you with insights into minimizing environmental impact while executing construction projects. You'll learn about sustainable practices and regulations that are crucial for renewable energy developments.

  • Sustainable Architecture: This program focuses on the principles of designing buildings and systems that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient. It prepares you to manage projects that prioritize sustainability and renewable techniques in construction.

In addition to obtaining a degree, gaining practical experience through internships or co-op programs is beneficial. This hands-on experience will enhance your understanding of the construction processes specific to the renewable energy sector.

Best Schools to become a Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas 2024

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Baton Rouge, LA

In-State Tuition:$8,038
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,038
Admission Rate:76%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:37,348

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,815
Out-of-State Tuition:$36,239
Admission Rate:63%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:74,014

University of Houston

Houston, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,685
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,877
Admission Rate:66%
Graduation Rate:63%
Total Enrollment:46,700

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Fort Collins, CO

In-State Tuition:$9,903
Out-of-State Tuition:$29,861
Admission Rate:91%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:33,403

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,477
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,694
Admission Rate:23%
Graduation Rate:90%
Total Enrollment:55,211

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,606
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,030
Admission Rate:88%
Graduation Rate:56%
Total Enrollment:38,171
Renewable Energy Construction Manager Job Description:
  • Direct work crews installing residential or commercial solar photovoltaic or thermal systems.

Renewable Energy Construction Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Texas

  • Project Management Skills
    You will need to effectively plan, execute, and finalize projects according to strict deadlines and within budget. This includes acquiring resources and coordinating the efforts of team members and third-party contractors.

  • Technical Knowledge
    A solid understanding of renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, and geothermal systems, is essential. This knowledge allows you to make informed decisions and guide your team throughout the construction process.

  • Regulatory Compliance
    Familiarity with federal, state, and local regulations governing renewable energy projects is vital. You must ensure that all construction practices are compliant with applicable codes and standards.

  • Budget Management
    You will be responsible for developing and managing project budgets. Strong financial acumen will enable you to track expenditures, manage costs, and forecast future financial needs.

  • Communication Skills
    Clear and effective communication with various stakeholders, including clients, subcontractors, and team members, is necessary for project success. You should be able to convey complex technical information in an understandable manner.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities
    Challenges are inevitable during construction projects. Your capacity to identify issues quickly and develop practical solutions will significantly influence project timelines and outcomes.

  • Leadership Skills
    As a manager, you will lead multidisciplinary teams. Strong leadership qualities, including motivation, delegation, and conflict resolution, will help you navigate team dynamics and ensure collaboration.

  • Safety Management
    Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures specific to construction sites is crucial. You will be responsible for creating a safe working environment and ensuring all team members adhere to safety standards.

  • Time Management
    Managing multiple tasks and priorities is vital. You should be skilled in organizing your time and that of your team to ensure the timely completion of projects.

  • Adaptability
    The renewable energy sector is continuously evolving. You need to be open to change and capable of adjusting plans and strategies based on new information or unforeseen circumstances.

Job Duties for Renewable Energy Construction Managers

  • Estimate materials, equipment, and personnel needed for residential or commercial solar installation projects.

  • Prepare solar installation project proposals, quotes, budgets, or schedules.

  • Supervise solar installers, technicians, and subcontractors for solar installation projects to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Technologies and Skills Used by Renewable Energy Construction Managers

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Trimble SketchUp Pro

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Project management software

  • Microsoft Project
  • Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Resource Management

  • Managing your time and the time of other people
  • Selecting and managing the best workers for a job

Social

  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions
  • Teaching people how to do something

Job Market and Opportunities for Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas

The job market for Renewable Energy Construction Managers in Texas is currently characterized by significant demand and growth potential. As the state leads the nation in renewable energy production, particularly in wind and solar sectors, various opportunities are on the rise.

  • Demand: The transition to renewable energy sources is at the forefront of the energy sector in Texas. With a push for sustainable practices, construction managers are increasingly sought after to oversee the development of large-scale renewable projects. This includes not only solar parks and wind farms but also energy storage facilities and grid modernization efforts.

  • Growth Potential: The renewable energy sector in Texas is expected to grow substantially over the next decade. Factors contributing to this growth include:

    • State and federal initiatives promoting clean energy.
    • Technological advancements making renewable solutions more accessible and efficient.
    • A growing emphasis on environmental sustainability from both businesses and consumers.
  • Geographical Hotspots: Several regions in Texas are emerging as key players in the renewable energy market:

    • West Texas: This region is known for its vast wind farms, particularly in areas like the Permian Basin and around Abilene. The favorable wind conditions contribute to a high concentration of wind energy projects.
    • Central Texas: Cities like Austin and San Antonio have seen a surge in solar energy initiatives, supported by local government policies and community interest in clean energy solutions.
    • Coastal Texas: The Gulf Coast is exploring offshore wind energy potential, creating new opportunities for construction managers with expertise in marine and coastal project execution.

Overall, the combination of a supportive regulatory environment, technological progress, and growing consumer awareness positions the Renewable Energy Construction Manager career as a promising pathway in Texas’s evolving job market.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas

  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
    Access articles, research, and data on renewable energy technologies and construction practices. NREL Website

  • U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) – Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE)
    Find federal initiatives, research projects, and funding opportunities related to renewable energy. DOE EERE Website

  • Renewable Energy Association (REA)
    Explore industry standards, news, and networking opportunities within the renewable energy sector. REA Website

  • Texas Renewable Energy Industries Alliance (TREIA)
    Gain insights into Texas’s renewable energy landscape, including policy updates and market trends. TREIA Website

  • Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)
    Stay updated on solar energy developments, policy advocacy, and business resources. SEIA Website

  • Wind Energy Foundation
    Access research, advocacy efforts, and educational resources related to wind energy development. Wind Energy Foundation Website

  • American Wind Energy Association (AWEA)
    Learn about industry advancements, job opportunities, and networking events specifically for wind energy. AWEA Website

  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) - Power and Energy Society
    Explore publications, conferences, and resources for electrical engineering professionals in renewable energy fields. [IEEE PES Website](https://pes IEEE.org)

  • Texas State Legislature
    Review renewable energy-related legislation and policies affecting construction and development in Texas. Texas Legislature Website

  • Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
    Access resources specific to construction management practices, including training and certification opportunities. CMAA Website

  • Project Management Institute (PMI)
    Discover resources, certifications, and methodologies relevant to project management within the renewable energy sector. PMI Website

  • Green Building Council (USGBC)
    Investigate sustainable building practices, certifications, and resources that pertain to renewable energy facilities. USGBC Website

  • State Energy Conservation Office (SECO)
    Find state-specific initiatives regarding energy conservation and renewable energy projects in Texas. SECO Website

Use these resources to enhance your knowledge, stay informed about industry trends, and connect with professionals in the renewable energy construction field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas

  • What is a Renewable Energy Construction Manager?
    A Renewable Energy Construction Manager oversees the planning, construction, and implementation of renewable energy projects, such as wind farms, solar installations, and hydroelectric systems. You coordinate between stakeholders, manage budgets, and ensure projects are completed on time and within safety regulations.

  • What educational background do I need to become a Renewable Energy Construction Manager?
    Typically, a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, environmental science, or a related field is required. Some positions may also require additional certifications in project management or specific renewable energy technologies.

  • What skills are essential for success in this role?
    Key skills include strong project management capabilities, effective communication, knowledge of construction practices, an understanding of renewable energy technologies, and proficiency in budget management and risk assessment.

  • What are the main responsibilities of a Renewable Energy Construction Manager?
    Your main responsibilities include:

    • Coordinating and managing construction operations.
    • Collaborating with engineers, architects, and contractors.
    • Overseeing project timelines and budgets.
    • Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
    • Reporting progress to stakeholders.
  • What is the job outlook for Renewable Energy Construction Managers in Texas?
    The demand for Renewable Energy Construction Managers in Texas is expected to grow, driven by the state's commitment to renewable energy and significant investment in clean energy sources. Texas is a leader in wind energy and has a rapidly growing solar sector, contributing to a strong job market.

  • What is the average salary for a Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas?
    As of October 2023, the average salary for a Renewable Energy Construction Manager in Texas ranges from $85,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and the specific project scope.

  • Are there certifications that can enhance my career in this field?
    Yes, obtaining certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or certifications specific to renewable energy (like NABCEP for solar energy) can enhance your qualifications and job prospects.

  • What are the biggest challenges faced in renewable energy construction projects?
    Challenges can include regulatory compliance, environmental impact considerations, supply chain issues, and the need for innovative technology solutions. Balancing these with budget and timeline constraints is critical.

  • Do I need experience in the renewable energy sector to be considered for a position?
    While experience in the renewable energy sector is beneficial, many employers also consider candidates with strong construction management backgrounds in other industries. Relevant internships or project involvement can also be valuable.

  • What opportunities for advancement exist in this career?
    As you gain experience, there are opportunities to move into senior management roles, including Director of Construction, Project Director, or Operations Manager within renewable energy firms or larger construction organizations.