Melink Solar · 1 week ago
Preconstruction Engineer
Cincinnati, OH
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
5+ years expMelink Solar is a leading commercial solar EPC company specializing in designing and building solar arrays. They are seeking a dynamic and experienced Preconstruction Engineer to build and maintain vendor relationships, drive accurate estimates, and ensure quality sourcing of materials and services.
ConstructionProduct DesignRenewable EnergySolar
Responsibilities
Meet with existing vendors and own vendor relationships; proactively monitor and communicate upcoming price increases/decreases and market shifts
Assist the project management team in sourcing materials and vendors to meet project demand, cost, and quality requirements
Lead/assist and improve the prequalifying and re-qualifying process of vendors/subcontractors, including capability, safety, financials, quality history, and compliance
Maintain and improve a current, organized database of vendors and subcontractors, including contacts, capabilities, certifications, insurance, and performance scores
Develop and maintain relationships with key IPP customers to support growth initiatives and strengthen the company’s market position
Improve and maintain a 'live' pricing database of key material components commonly used, enabling quick and accurate quoting
Owns and maintains the bill of material (BOM) master data
Review plans and create takeoffs for budgeting projects, leveraging CAD and Bluebeam tools for precise quantification
Create bid schedules and detailed scopes of work for subcontractors and vendors to bid against clear, consistent requirements
Review vendor/subcontractor bids for compliance, completeness, and accuracy versus plans/specs and scope
Compile comprehensive budgets based on material and subcontractor quotes, domestic content/FEOC/tariffs, plus experience-based allowances for items not shown on drawings
Complete Bid Sheets for formal bid responses and ensure alignment with internal standards
Prepare a list of clarifications and assumptions for inclusion with all bids to reduce ambiguity and risk
Partner with the Project Executive team to perform budget reviews and establish a feedback loop (estimate vs. actuals) to improve future budget accuracy
Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Operations to balance cost, schedule, and technical requirements
Support risk assessments (supply, schedule, quality) and mitigation plans on critical projects
Champion ethical sourcing, safety, and quality standards in all procurement activities
Qualification
Required
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear and effective interaction with stakeholders
Self-starter with a high level of personal accountability
Ability to develop and implement processes and standard operating procedures (SOP)
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) or related software
Strong understanding of contracts, plans, specifications, and regulations
Ability to stay flexible and efficient in a fast-paced, changing environment
Demonstrated ability to make quick decisions and solve problems while under pressure
Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively while maintaining a high level of attention to detail
In-depth understanding of engineering, architectural, and construction drawings
5–8+ years of experience in procurement, estimating, or a combined role in construction, industrial, manufacturing, or engineering environments
CAD proficiency (e.g., AutoCAD) for plan review and takeoffs
Bluebeam Revu experience (advanced markups, measurements, takeoff workflows)
Strong knowledge of drawing/spec interpretation, quantities, scopes, and bid package development
Demonstrated ability to manage vendors/subcontractors, negotiate pricing/terms, and assess bid compliance
Advanced Excel skills (cost models, pivot tables) and familiarity with ERP/MRP tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or similar)
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Supply Chain, Industrial Technology, or equivalent experience
Solar PV Industry experience is required
Ability to write clear reports, business correspondence, and procedures
Proficient in MS Project, Smartsheets, and ERP (Sage) systems
Ability to traverse and inspect job sites in various weather conditions, including walking, climbing, reaching, bending, and occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds
Exposure to typical construction site hazards
In-Office, not remote
Company
Melink Solar
Melink Solar designs, installs, and maintains solar systems for the commercial sector.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Seth Parker
Chief Executive Officer
Company data provided by crunchbase