What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate, Preconstruction position at DESRI?
About DESRI
DESRI (formerly D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments) is a market-leading owner and operator of renewable energy projects throughout the United States. We have acquired or developed approximately 11 gigawatts of contracted capacity across a portfolio of over 70 renewable energy projects in 24 states.
About The Role
DESRI is seeking Preconstruction Associates to support the planning, design, and early-stage execution of utility-scale renewable energy projects. This role will work cross-functionally with development, engineering, procurement, and construction teams to advance projects from late-stage development through financial close and into construction readiness. The ideal candidate is highly organized, analytically strong, and comfortable managing multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment.
What You'll Do
DESRI (formerly D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments) is a market-leading owner and operator of renewable energy projects throughout the United States. We have acquired or developed approximately 11 gigawatts of contracted capacity across a portfolio of over 70 renewable energy projects in 24 states.
About The Role
DESRI is seeking Preconstruction Associates to support the planning, design, and early-stage execution of utility-scale renewable energy projects. This role will work cross-functionally with development, engineering, procurement, and construction teams to advance projects from late-stage development through financial close and into construction readiness. The ideal candidate is highly organized, analytically strong, and comfortable managing multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment.
What You'll Do
- Support preconstruction activities across solar, storage, and wind projects, from late-stage development through notice to proceed (NTP)
- Coordinate with internal stakeholders (Development, Engineering, Finance) and external partners (EPCs, consultants, suppliers)
- Assist in managing EPC procurement processes, including RFP development, bid evaluation, and contract negotiation
- Track and develop project schedules, budgets, and key milestones to ensure alignment with project timelines
- Support constructability reviews, site diligence, value engineering efforts, and risk assessments
- Review engineering deliverables, site plans, and technical documentation for completeness and consistency
- Assist in the development of project budgets, cost estimates, and financial models inputs
- Help manage interconnection, permitting, and site readiness considerations as they relate to construction
- Prepare internal memos, presentations, and investment committee materials
- Maintain organized documentation and data rooms for project execution
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field
- 2–5 years of experience in renewable energy, construction, engineering, or project management
- Familiarity with utility-scale solar, wind, or energy storage projects preferred
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint; familiarity with project management tools is a plus
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Experience supporting EPC procurement or construction execution
- Exposure to project finance concepts or cost modeling
- Familiarity with permitting, interconnection, or grid infrastructure processes
- The expected annual base salary for this position is $110,000 - $130,000. Our compensation and benefits package includes variable compensation in the form of a year-end bonus, guaranteed in the first year of hire, and benefits including medical and prescription drug coverage, 401(k) contribution matching, paid time off, wellness reimbursement, family building benefits, and a charitable gift match program.
Salary : $110,000 - $130,000