American Electric Power

Director Major Projects

American Electric Power • $188K — $245K *
New Albany, OH 43054In-Person
Energy & Utilities
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in relevant field such as Construction Management or Engineering.
  • Ten years of experience with major construction projects and project management.
  • Progressive responsibilities demonstrating business acumen and leadership.
  • PMP certification required for project management expertise.
  • Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel up to 50%.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee execution of large transmission projects with complex budgets.
  • Implement and monitor project safety programs to achieve Zero Harm.
  • Report project strategy and needs to executive leadership.
  • Negotiate commercial contracts and contractor agreements.
  • Drive integrated scheduling across all project workstreams.
  • Manage project budgets and ensure compliance with budgetary targets.
  • Identify project risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Benefits

  • Base salary and annual bonus opportunity.
  • Long-term incentive plan.
  • 401K retirement plan.
  • AEP Pension for long-term financial security.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness.
Full Job Description
Job Posting End Date
09-11-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Responsible for leading and delivering large, complex transmission projects with budgets ranging from $1 billion to $10 billion. Serves as the single point of accountability for project safety, schedule, cost, regulatory compliance, commercial performance, stakeholder alignment, and overall execution. Oversees cross-functional teams, contractors, and third-party partners to ensure successful delivery of high-voltage transmission infrastructure projects. Provides executive-level reporting, drives project strategy and decision-making, ensures compliance with federal and industry regulations, and builds strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to achieve project goals and customer satisfaction.

Job Description

What You'll Do:
  • Own overall project execution including directing, guiding, and overseeing project management functions to successfully complete assigned project.
  • Implement and oversee project safety program, monitor performance and address issues as they arise in an effort to achieve Zero Harm.
  • Responsible for reporting on project strategy and team needs to Transmission Executive leadership. Report to include solutions for siting, regulatory, procurement, engineering, construction and budgetary requirements.
  • Responsible for establishing project commercial contracting strategy and negotiate project contractor, EPC, and engineering agreements.
  • Leads executive governance with JV partners as required.
  • Drives integrated schedule across all workstreams and directs alignment with resource management.
  • Maintains oversite of program budget and contingency. Manages project execution to meet budgetary targets.
  • Identifies and manages executive risk register. Develops solutions to mitigate and minimize exposure to project risks.
  • Leads project change management. Resolves disputes before need of escalation.
  • Builds and mentor a trusting and cohesive project leadership team resulting in an effective and highly productive team.
  • Manages stakeholder relationships by interfacing with utilities, RTOs, regulators, landowners, and contractors.
  • Ensures readiness for regulatory filings measured by successful project hearings resulting in approval and grant of Certificate of Convenience and Necessity.
  • Manage all staffing aspects including employees, staff augmentation, and consultants/vendor management.
  • Manages construction and delivers project safely, on schedule, and within approved investment.
  • Have an understanding and experience with technical solutions related to specifics of the project work to drive team to solutions.


What We're Looking For:
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, Project Management, Accounting, Finance, or related field of study dependent on business unit requirements
  • Ten (10) years of qualified experience, including work in two or more of the following areas: major construction projects, project management, portfolio management, commissioning, project controls, commercial nuclear power plant, fossil generation, and contract negotiations
  • Experience must exhibit progressive levels of responsibility and accomplishment, highly proficient level of business acumen, and demonstrated effective leadership skills
  • PMP certification required
  • Valid state driver's license
  • Flexible to travel as required (typically up to 50%, with potential for extended travel or temporary relocation during critical project phases).


Preferred Experience:
  • Master's in Business, Engineering, Project Management, Accounting, Finance, Construction Management, or related field of study dependent on business unit requirements preferred.
  • 345-765 kV transmission projects including project management, engineering, or construction oversight
  • Underground, HVDC, or submarine work
  • Direct Supervision
  • Executive communication and report outs
  • Contracting/ Commercial Strategy
  • Coordination/ Experience with Regional Transmission Organizations- such as PJM, MISO, SPP, or ERCOT, including competitive projects
  • Coordination with State Utility Commissions including major State applications
  • Significant Environmental applications such as USACE, USFWS, NEPA
  • Strategic planning and project risk assessment/mitigation expertise.
  • Proven ability to develop employees for success in current and future roles.
  • Strong conflict management, active listening, delegation, and decision-making skills.
  • Effective at constructively challenging assumptions and differing viewpoints.
  • High energy, resilience, and tenacity when navigating complex challenges.
  • Committed to continuous improvement, process optimization, and driving organizational excellence.
  • Strong questioning mindset with the ability to identify opportunities and implement improvements.
  • Experienced working across office, construction, utility, power generation, transmission, distribution, telecom, and nuclear environments.
  • Able to safely perform site inspections, including walking uneven terrain, climbing ladders, and maintaining awareness of hazardous conditions.
  • Dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety, operational effectiveness, and regulatory compliance.


Other Considerations:
  • Internal candidate consideration: Two (2) years of experience as a Project Manager Staff, Project Manager Staff Senior, or Director Projects is preferred, or demonstrated competencies, knowledge and skillset through achieved results in a shorter timeline.


Where You'll Work:
  • New Albany, OH


What You'll Get:
  • Base Salary
  • Annual Bonus
  • Long Term Incentive
  • 401K
  • AEP Pension
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package


Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-012

Compensation Range:

$188,524.00 - $245,080.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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About American Electric Power

American Electric Power generates, transmits, and distributes electricity, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers nationwide. AEP serves millions of customers across 11 states. It operates in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, providing power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. AEP generates electricity using diverse sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable energy like wind and solar. The company maintains a vast transmission network that delivers electricity from power plants to local distribution systems, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. AEP is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, investing in wind farms and solar facilities to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the company engages in community outreach, supporting education, environmental conservation, and various social initiatives.

American Electric Power Careers

Join the dynamic team at American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, and ignite your career with a company known for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the energy sector.

Opportunities Await

At AEP, we offer a multitude of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional interests. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, our diverse range of employment options ensures that there's a place for every ambitious individual in our team.

Grow and Innovate

Embark on a journey of growth and professional development with AEP. Our company is at the forefront of the energy industry’s transformation, integrating sustainable and innovative practices that not only lead the market but also contribute to a greener planet. Engage in work that challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the energy sector.

Culture and Benefits

AEP is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, where every team member’s contribution is valued. We offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs and diversity training, AEP ensures that our team is equipped for both personal and professional success.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an AEP internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities that pave the way for future employment. Interns at AEP work on real projects, learn from seasoned professionals, and gain the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of energy.

Leadership and Development

Leadership at AEP means more than guiding teams – it involves inspiring change and driving innovation. With leadership development programs, employees are prepared to take on challenging roles that shape the future of the company and the industry. Our focus on leadership and continuous improvement creates an environment where ambitious professionals can thrive.

Join Our Team

Explore the career possibilities at American Electric Power today. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are constantly hiring new talent and look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, ace the interview, and join a company where your career can flourish.

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Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, AEP offers a dynamic work environment where innovation, leadership, and growth are part of everyday life. Join us in powering a new and brighter future for everyone.
Learn more about American Electric Power
Size
16,688 employees
Market Cap
$48.8 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ
AEP
* Ladders Estimates

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