People Powered Profile: Carlos Rincon

Carlos Rincon, a PMP-certified project controls professional, shares insights from 18+ years working across project controls jobs energy employers rely on for global project delivery.

His experience spans BESS, solar, LNG, and combined cycle power, highlighting industry challenges such as grid capacity and talent shortages.

The interview explores career progression, key skills, and the evolving energy landscape, offering practical advice for professionals entering or advancing in project controls jobs energy-wide.

Carlos Rincon is a PMP-certified and MBA-educated Project Management Professional with more than 18 years of experience in the renewable and conventional energy sector.

For the latest in Astute’s People Powered Profile series, Carlos shares his career journey, project experience, and insights into the evolving energy sector.

Career Journey in Project Controls Jobs Energy-Wide

Early Career and Foundations

“My professional journey started in 2006 when I began working at IBERDROLA in Spain as a Cost Controller within their Planning, Controls, and Systems department.

“I will always be grateful to them for the opportunity they provided me, as some of my current knowledge and work style were shaped during my time there.

“Having worked for several large multinational Spanish companies in different roles, I have always been involved in the Project Controls function, which encompasses areas like cost management, planning and scheduling, risk management, scope and change management, contract management, and subcontracts administration.”

Global Project Experience

“Over the years, I have worked on numerous large-scale and intricate projects in various regions, including Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australasia, and Latin America.

“These projects have involved a wide range of technologies, such as Energy from Waste, Biomass, Solar, PV, Wind, LNG, BESS, and Combined Cycle.

“Lately, since I now reside in the UK, I have started a new journey, but this time, instead of being a part of the Principal Contractor, where I have always been, I will be on the opposite side of the contract.”

Key Energy Projects and Power Stations

“Over the years, I have been part of numerous projects, but some leave a lasting impression for various reasons.

“My first project was the Mesaieed Power Plant, a 2,000-MW Combined Cycle facility in Qatar.

“This project was incredibly complex, with a demanding client and extreme weather conditions.

“I also recall the construction of the 50-MW Arenales concentrated solar power plant in Spain, which was completed ahead of programme and resulted in a profit increase.

“Additionally, I remember the third phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, which has an 800-MW capacity using photovoltaic solar panels.

“A more recent experience is the NESS Energy Project in Aberdeen, an energy-from-waste facility capable of processing 150,000 tons of municipal solid waste annually.”

How the Energy Industry Has Evolved

“Without a doubt, the renewable energy sector has made remarkable strides over the past two decades.

“There is now a diverse mix of energy sources, including coal, gas, nuclear, solar, wind, and biofuel.

“I believe renewable energy will continue to advance through new technologies and cost efficiencies, although conventional energy will still play a role.”

Challenges Facing Project Controls Jobs Energy Professionals

Grid Capacity and Infrastructure

“One of the main issues is grid capacity, as current infrastructure struggles to handle renewable variability.” A challenge also highlighted by the Energy Institute, which has flagged grid capacity as one of the sector’s most pressing infrastructure constraints.

Skills Shortage

“The shortage of skilled professionals across design, construction, and operations is driving turnover and increasing salaries.”

Digital Transformation in AEC

“There is still scepticism around technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), limiting efficiency gains.”

Work-Life Balance

“The industry must adapt to flexible working expectations to retain talent and improve employee satisfaction.”

In-Demand Skills for Project Controls Jobs Energy Employers Want

“Key skills in the power sector include problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, project management, and data analysis.

“Leadership is particularly important for senior roles such as Project Directors, where team performance directly impacts project success.”

What Makes Energy Careers Rewarding

“The industry offers constant challenges and variety, making every project unique.

“Completing complex infrastructure projects provides a strong sense of achievement, particularly after overcoming significant obstacles.”

Career Advice for Future Energy Professionals

“My advice to young professionals is to remain curious, embrace change, and seize opportunities.

“Learning from mistakes is a crucial part of career development, often providing more value than success alone.”

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