Freelance Construction Project Manager Engineering, Construction & HSEQ · London ·

This is a 24 month contract role starting in April '25, with the possibility of extension to 36 months.

We are Cero Generation, a leading European solar energy developer. Our vision is to ensure that every generation has access to clean, reliable, cost-effective renewable energy. Cero identifies, develops, builds, and energises major solar energy projects across eight European countries, helping communities thrive across Europe and beyond. We have a 25GW solar storage portfolio with further generation capability added each year.

As the Freelance Project Manager (FPM), you will be accountable for delivering solar and battery storage and other electrical infrastructure construction projects from contract signature (financial close) to commercial operations and handover to operations asset management. You will work with project contractors, partners, and stakeholders to maintain the highest safety and quality standards to deliver projects on time and on budget. You will be part of an experienced integrated project team across various disciplines (Development, Finance, Engineering, WHSES, Asset Management, M&A) and will spend significant time travelling to project sites in the United Kingdom.

Main responsibilities:

• Act as the client’s point of contact for projects in construction, ensuring all contractors meet their contractual obligations.
• Lead with regards to Cero’s objectives and values.
• Ensure focus on Health and Safety standards during preparation/execution of all works.
• Work with EPC contractors, onsite and offsite consultants, suppliers, and the WHSES team to maintain high standards of WHSES and Quality.
• Liaise closely with EPC contractors, lenders, technical authorities, suppliers, 3rd party consultants, and local stakeholders.
• Resolve project timeline and technical problems through effective collaboration.
• Continuously review and assess Project Schedules and track actual construction progress.
• Manage the construction critical path and other project-related activities.
• Provide regular reporting to Senior Project Management members, SPV board of directors, financing parties, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure Risk Management according to Cero’s objectives throughout the project.
• Manage budget/contingencies and financial monitoring.
• Regularly report to the Senior Project Manager and escalate critical matters timely.
• Visit different project sites in the UK as required.

What will you need to succeed in the role?

Essential Skills:

• 5 years or more experience in project controls and project/construction management of solar, battery storage, electrical infrastructures, or other utility-scale renewable energy projects.
• Strong understanding of the grid connection process and commissioning process of electrical installations.
• Understanding of technical reporting requirements and procedures.
• Experience in cost structuring and cost control processes.
• HSE-attitude: live by example and support the implementation of a safety culture.
• Capacity to self-motivate and organise assigned tasks and responsibilities.
• Work ethic and attitude should align with Cero values: collaborative, accountable, ambitious, impactful, courageous, and caring.
• Fluent in English; any other language is a plus.
• Active effort and capacity to support team building and integration.
• Strive for continuous improvement within the project.
• Proficient with Windows/Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint.

Desirable Skills:

• Existing skills are welcome; learning and improvement through specific training can be arranged.
• Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Visio, SigmaSix.

Working with Cero Generation:

Our shared culture is about doing the right thing for our company, our people, and the world around us. We’re passionate about renewable energy and its vital role in safeguarding the future of our planet. We’re committed to collaborating to achieve excellence in our field.

Cero Generation understands the importance of diversity and inclusion. We value the innovation and creativity that diversity of thought brings. Cero Generation is an equal opportunities employer and does not discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, gender identity, marriage, civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, race, religion, or belief. We facilitate a range of flexible working arrangements within our teams.