American Electric Power

Director Major Projects

American Electric Power$188K — $245K *
Energy & Utilities
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in relevant field such as Construction Management or Engineering
  • Ten years of experience in major construction projects or project management
  • PMP certification required
  • Demonstrated leadership skills and business acumen
  • Valid state driver's license

Responsibilities

  • Direct and oversee project management functions for successful project completion
  • Implement and monitor project safety programs to achieve Zero Harm
  • Report project strategy and requirements to executive leadership
  • Establish and negotiate commercial contracting strategy
  • Manage executive risk register and develop mitigation strategies
  • Lead project change management and resolve disputes
  • Build and mentor an effective project leadership team

Benefits

  • Annual bonus
  • Long-term incentive
  • 401K
  • AEP pension
  • Comprehensive benefits package
Full Job Description

Job Posting End Date

09-09-2026

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. 

Accountable For:

  • Reporting: Oversee and report out on project metrics including safety, capital investment, schedule and all requested performance metrics to the sponsoring organization, business unit, Operating Company Leadership or JV partnership.

  • Safety: Support, monitor, and reinforce contractor and employee safety performance through safety program implementation and recognition of any improved process, procedure and performance measurement that demonstrates a commitment to Zero Harm.

  • Capital Investment: Development of a risk adjusted multi-year capital plan for major project.  Oversee project’s short- and long-range total budget and forecast to ensure accurate development of estimated cash flow. This may include supporting Treasury and Transmission Finance functions for project financing with various banking firms.   Implement effective change management while gaining stakeholder acceptance. Develop, evaluate, and execute scenarios to accommodate increased or reduced project targets.

  • Regulatory Requirements: Achieve all regulatory approvals needed for the project. Actively participate as needed as a subject matter expert on regulatory filings, providing project justification and analysis.

  • Culture: Foster a strong, positive team culture. Mentor and provide development opportunities of project staff through job assignments, training programs, rotation, and personal development plans. 

  • Team Performance: Support and hold project team members accountable in their responsibilities.  Administer the company's performance management review program ensuring alignment with organization's goals and values. 

  • Stakeholder Relationships: Build and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders to achieve project goals while obtaining complete customer satisfaction.

  • Contracts: Guide the development of contracts aligned with project execution strategy. Direct and provide guidance in the management of contracts and contractors. Resolve all issues both technical and commercial in a timely manner or escalate, as necessary.

  • Compliance: Monitor project compliance with the established project policies and standards.  If applicable, support the development and governance of applicable Operating Agreements, Service Agreements, Administrative Agreements, or other applicable joint venture agreements necessary to operate the business. Maintain documentation.

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

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. 

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

Other Capabilities:

  • Proven strength in strategic thinking and planning.

  • Proven strength in project risk assessment and mitigation strategies.

  • Demonstrated strength in developing individuals in their current role as well as the next one.

  • Highly developed conflict management, effective listening, delegation, and decision-making skillsets.

  • Ability to challenge differing opinions in a very effective manner.

  • High-energy and tenacity in facing difficulty and challenges.

  • Work hours and travel as required to successfully accomplish assignments. Travel typically 50% or less, however greater travel may be required in support of specific assignments.  During phases of project execution, the Major Projects Director may be required to live on location of the project being overseen. 

  • Safely and effectively Perform light physical duties.  Duties can involve construction site walkdown on unstable surfaces, climbing ladders, and awareness of hazardous site conditions.

  • Promote continuous improvement and maintain a strong questioning attitude. Ask intrusive questions and challenge assumptions. Own, develop and/or improve guidelines, procedures, and processes to achieve organizational goals and objectives for continuous improvement.

  • Perform work at various AEP locations in varying conditions. Work sites will include office, power plants (including nuclear), and construction sites for Distribution, Transmission, Generation, and Telecom infrastructure. Work performed at nuclear power sites may involve work in hazardous areas and possible radiation exposure within the limits prescribed by the NRC.

  • Special skills directly related to the area of the assigned project may be required, as necessary.

  • Ability to write clear, concise reports and ability to make presentations to senior management.

  • Understand and support the policies, values, principles, structure, and behavior of AEP, especially the AEP Leads framework: Lead by example, engage employees, Act with accountability, develop employees, and strive for excellence

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.  

Hear about it first!   Get job alerts by email.  Log in to your Candidate Home Account today!  If you don't have an account, you can create one.

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.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at AEP by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and career tips that you can put to use today—all from the people who work here.

Career Alerts

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at American Electric Power.

Explore American Electric Power Jobs

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
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at American Electric Power

More Energy & Utilities Jobs

Find similar Director Major Projects jobs: