Qcells EPC
Senior Procurement Manager - High Voltage
Hanwha Qcells USA Corp (Qcells USA), headquartered in Irvine, CA, specializes in providing utility‑scale modules, solar photovoltaic (PV), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) project development, along with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services for solar and BESS projects nationwide. Qcells USA delivers comprehensive turnkey solutions encompassing the entire utility‑scale project lifecycle.
Location: Irvine, CA Supervisor: Director of Procurement FLSA Status: Exempt Position Status: Permanent, Full‑time Work Status: Hybrid
Qcells USA’s complete turnkey solutions seamlessly integrate the expertise of our Development, Module, and EPC teams, while ensuring close coordination with other vital internal groups such as Project Finance, Systems Integration, and Legal. This collaborative approach ensures that Qcells USA projects deliver exceptional value and performance.
Qcells is pioneering the establishment of the only complete module supply chain in the U.S., including the expansion of our Georgia module manufacturing facility, which stands as the largest in the Western Hemisphere.
As an integral part of the global Qcells brand, Qcells USA benefits from a legacy of excellence in photovoltaic manufacturing. Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high‑performance, superior‑quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology & Innovation HQ), Qcells operates under the umbrella of Hanwha Group, a Fortune Global 500 company and one of the top 8 business conglomerates in South Korea.
Overview Qcells is seeking a Procurement Manager to support the sourcing, contracting, and execution of procurement activities related to high‑voltage (HV) electrical substations and equipment. This role will own one or more major procurement categories such as transformers, breakers, relays, services, or full substation EPC. The individual will work closely with engineering, project management, construction, legal, and finance to ensure cost‑effective, timely, and risk‑mitigated procurement.
Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to optimize the procurement of materials and/or services;
Manage relationships with key suppliers in alignment with the company's overall strategic goals;
Manage the RFx process, including, but not limited to the following:
Prepare RFIs & RFPs to qualified suppliers, including working with other functional groups to gather all required documents and data;
Determine and maintain bid schedules by project schedules;
Coordinate responses to bidder questions;
Review, compare, and evaluate supplier proposals with historical and market pricing to determine cost‑competitive pricing and identify opportunities for cost savings;
Lead commercial negotiations for High‑Voltage Equipment Supply Agreements, project‑specific orders, change orders, etc., with key suppliers in accordance with company policies and guidelines – coordinating with the team and the Director of Procurement (HV) to ensure collaboration and alignment with portfolio strategy and goals;
Integrate a strong knowledge of Utility Scale Renewable complexities into RFP/contracting strategies (e.g., safe‑harbor needs, domestic content requirements, IRA benefits timing, etc.) – collaborating with cross‑functional team and Director to define exact strategy, but responsible for understanding and implementing;
Manage change order process for suppliers and other related contract management processes + mentoring Procurement Specialists in the process;
Ensure prime contract flow downs are incorporated into subcontract documents as needed or applicable to the scope of work/supply;
Monitor supplier compliance with contract terms and project requirements;
Support Project Management Team as needed with contract information and input to resolve supplier issues, such as under‑performance or scope gaps;
Evaluate vendor performance and develop improvement processes based on lessons learned;
Support Project Management Team as needed with urgent procurement needs;
Maintain accurate and complete purchasing records in accordance with record retention procedures;
Track and analyze market data and provide updates to leadership teams;
Identify, qualify & onboard new vendors;
Regular attendance, in accordance with company's attendance policy and supervisory assignment, is an essential job duty requirement for this position;
Perform other duties and special projects, as assigned by Management;
Lead development and execution of category strategies with minimal oversight, including 3–5 year sourcing plans based on demand forecasting;
Negotiate high‑value and/or complex commercial terms independently, including framework agreements or long‑term partnerships;
Provide thought leadership in optimizing procurement processes and systems; drive strategic initiatives across the SCM organization;
Act as a mentor and escalation point for junior staff within the HV procurement team; provide coaching and workload support;
Represent SCM in cross‑functional leadership forums; present category updates, market conditions, and sourcing risks to executive leadership.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree required;
Minimum 5–7 years of experience in Contract Management and/or Procurement;
Minimum 3–4 years of experience in utility‑scale solar/renewable energy (e.g., >50MW) and/or construction field projects at a project size of over $30M in procurement of equipment/material;
Experience leading capital equipment purchasing, contract management, and change order management, preferably in Solar or Renewable Energy;
Preferred experience implementing strategic sourcing initiatives (e.g., not just responding to tactical business needs);
Ability to work autonomously in a fast‑paced, professional, team environment with minimal supervision;
Ability to prioritize tasks appropriately and in support of project schedules and other deadlines;
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail;
Strong verbal and written communication skills;
Confident communicator with the ability to interact with people at all levels of the organization – proven ability to work cross‑functionally, manage junior employees, and effectively manage up;
Experience in conducting supplier reviews and evaluations, and maintaining good business relationships;
Computer literacy with advanced knowledge on Microsoft Office, including but not limited to, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc. – capabilities should allow Microsoft Office tools to be an asset to performance and ability to execute the work and communicate to the team;
Strong understanding of construction management software systems (Procore, etc.) and SAP, or proven ability to learn new software systems quickly;
Able to identify, investigate, and solve problems that arise in a timely manner.
Physical Demands
Stationary Position: frequently remains stationary up to 90% of the time and sitting up to 8 hours in a day;
Move/Traverse: infrequently bend, stand, stoop and/or walk;
Carry Weight: infrequently carry weight and/or lift objects (light to heavy) weighing up to 10 pounds;
Hearing and Speech: frequently communicates with the ability to hear and talk on a regular basis with employees, coworkers, and all personnel matters; must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations;
Sight: frequent use of sight to detect images on computer, office documents, and office objects near and far;
Climb: occasionally ascends/descends on stairway to get to office upper and lower floors;
Travel: up to 20% as needed.
Work Environment
Regular professional, office business setting;
Noise level ranges from low to moderate (if in office setting);
Noise level ranges from moderate to high (if on construction worksites);
Under the Office Mobilization Plan (OMP) policy, the role may transition to an onsite or hybrid arrangement, as determined by business needs and the Head of Department.
Compensation The anticipated starting pay range for this position, located in Irvine, CA, is $150,000 – $175,000 base salary per year. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to internal pay equity, skill set, education, licenses, certifications, geographic location, essential job duties, and required experience. An additional discretionary bonus structure or incentives may be offered as part of the overall compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, dental, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Hanwha Qcells is proud to be an at‑will Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status and any other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. The company will provide reasonable accommodations to all qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact
hr-usa@qcells.com
to request accommodations.
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Location: Irvine, CA Supervisor: Director of Procurement FLSA Status: Exempt Position Status: Permanent, Full‑time Work Status: Hybrid
Qcells USA’s complete turnkey solutions seamlessly integrate the expertise of our Development, Module, and EPC teams, while ensuring close coordination with other vital internal groups such as Project Finance, Systems Integration, and Legal. This collaborative approach ensures that Qcells USA projects deliver exceptional value and performance.
Qcells is pioneering the establishment of the only complete module supply chain in the U.S., including the expansion of our Georgia module manufacturing facility, which stands as the largest in the Western Hemisphere.
As an integral part of the global Qcells brand, Qcells USA benefits from a legacy of excellence in photovoltaic manufacturing. Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high‑performance, superior‑quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology & Innovation HQ), Qcells operates under the umbrella of Hanwha Group, a Fortune Global 500 company and one of the top 8 business conglomerates in South Korea.
Overview Qcells is seeking a Procurement Manager to support the sourcing, contracting, and execution of procurement activities related to high‑voltage (HV) electrical substations and equipment. This role will own one or more major procurement categories such as transformers, breakers, relays, services, or full substation EPC. The individual will work closely with engineering, project management, construction, legal, and finance to ensure cost‑effective, timely, and risk‑mitigated procurement.
Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to optimize the procurement of materials and/or services;
Manage relationships with key suppliers in alignment with the company's overall strategic goals;
Manage the RFx process, including, but not limited to the following:
Prepare RFIs & RFPs to qualified suppliers, including working with other functional groups to gather all required documents and data;
Determine and maintain bid schedules by project schedules;
Coordinate responses to bidder questions;
Review, compare, and evaluate supplier proposals with historical and market pricing to determine cost‑competitive pricing and identify opportunities for cost savings;
Lead commercial negotiations for High‑Voltage Equipment Supply Agreements, project‑specific orders, change orders, etc., with key suppliers in accordance with company policies and guidelines – coordinating with the team and the Director of Procurement (HV) to ensure collaboration and alignment with portfolio strategy and goals;
Integrate a strong knowledge of Utility Scale Renewable complexities into RFP/contracting strategies (e.g., safe‑harbor needs, domestic content requirements, IRA benefits timing, etc.) – collaborating with cross‑functional team and Director to define exact strategy, but responsible for understanding and implementing;
Manage change order process for suppliers and other related contract management processes + mentoring Procurement Specialists in the process;
Ensure prime contract flow downs are incorporated into subcontract documents as needed or applicable to the scope of work/supply;
Monitor supplier compliance with contract terms and project requirements;
Support Project Management Team as needed with contract information and input to resolve supplier issues, such as under‑performance or scope gaps;
Evaluate vendor performance and develop improvement processes based on lessons learned;
Support Project Management Team as needed with urgent procurement needs;
Maintain accurate and complete purchasing records in accordance with record retention procedures;
Track and analyze market data and provide updates to leadership teams;
Identify, qualify & onboard new vendors;
Regular attendance, in accordance with company's attendance policy and supervisory assignment, is an essential job duty requirement for this position;
Perform other duties and special projects, as assigned by Management;
Lead development and execution of category strategies with minimal oversight, including 3–5 year sourcing plans based on demand forecasting;
Negotiate high‑value and/or complex commercial terms independently, including framework agreements or long‑term partnerships;
Provide thought leadership in optimizing procurement processes and systems; drive strategic initiatives across the SCM organization;
Act as a mentor and escalation point for junior staff within the HV procurement team; provide coaching and workload support;
Represent SCM in cross‑functional leadership forums; present category updates, market conditions, and sourcing risks to executive leadership.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree required;
Minimum 5–7 years of experience in Contract Management and/or Procurement;
Minimum 3–4 years of experience in utility‑scale solar/renewable energy (e.g., >50MW) and/or construction field projects at a project size of over $30M in procurement of equipment/material;
Experience leading capital equipment purchasing, contract management, and change order management, preferably in Solar or Renewable Energy;
Preferred experience implementing strategic sourcing initiatives (e.g., not just responding to tactical business needs);
Ability to work autonomously in a fast‑paced, professional, team environment with minimal supervision;
Ability to prioritize tasks appropriately and in support of project schedules and other deadlines;
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail;
Strong verbal and written communication skills;
Confident communicator with the ability to interact with people at all levels of the organization – proven ability to work cross‑functionally, manage junior employees, and effectively manage up;
Experience in conducting supplier reviews and evaluations, and maintaining good business relationships;
Computer literacy with advanced knowledge on Microsoft Office, including but not limited to, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc. – capabilities should allow Microsoft Office tools to be an asset to performance and ability to execute the work and communicate to the team;
Strong understanding of construction management software systems (Procore, etc.) and SAP, or proven ability to learn new software systems quickly;
Able to identify, investigate, and solve problems that arise in a timely manner.
Physical Demands
Stationary Position: frequently remains stationary up to 90% of the time and sitting up to 8 hours in a day;
Move/Traverse: infrequently bend, stand, stoop and/or walk;
Carry Weight: infrequently carry weight and/or lift objects (light to heavy) weighing up to 10 pounds;
Hearing and Speech: frequently communicates with the ability to hear and talk on a regular basis with employees, coworkers, and all personnel matters; must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations;
Sight: frequent use of sight to detect images on computer, office documents, and office objects near and far;
Climb: occasionally ascends/descends on stairway to get to office upper and lower floors;
Travel: up to 20% as needed.
Work Environment
Regular professional, office business setting;
Noise level ranges from low to moderate (if in office setting);
Noise level ranges from moderate to high (if on construction worksites);
Under the Office Mobilization Plan (OMP) policy, the role may transition to an onsite or hybrid arrangement, as determined by business needs and the Head of Department.
Compensation The anticipated starting pay range for this position, located in Irvine, CA, is $150,000 – $175,000 base salary per year. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to internal pay equity, skill set, education, licenses, certifications, geographic location, essential job duties, and required experience. An additional discretionary bonus structure or incentives may be offered as part of the overall compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, dental, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Hanwha Qcells is proud to be an at‑will Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status and any other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. The company will provide reasonable accommodations to all qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact
hr-usa@qcells.com
to request accommodations.
#J-18808-Ljbffr