Project Developer – Utility-Scale Solar

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Project Developer to lead the development of utility-scale solar projects from origination through pre-construction. This role will be responsible for site selection, permitting, land acquisition, interconnection, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate has a strong background in renewable energy development, a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, and the ability to manage complex projects in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and evaluate potential sites for utility-scale solar projects based on environmental, regulatory, and economic factors.

• Conduct due diligence on land use, permitting requirements, and transmission interconnection feasibility.

• Secure land control agreements, including leases, purchase agreements, and easements with landowners.

• Lead the local, state, and federal permitting processes for project approval.

• Manage environmental studies, zoning approvals, and stakeholder engagement.

• Collaborate with legal teams to ensure compliance with land use, environmental, and energy regulations.

• Coordinate interconnection applications and feasibility studies with utilities and regional transmission operators (RTOs/ISOs).

• Work with internal engineering teams and external consultants to optimize grid connection strategies.

• Track interconnection timelines, costs, and milestones to ensure project feasibility.

• Build relationships with landowners, local government officials, regulatory agencies, and community groups.

• Represent the company at public hearings, industry events, and community meetings.

• Address stakeholder concerns and communicate the benefits of solar energy projects.

• Assist in financial modeling and project valuation to assess project viability.

• Coordinate with finance, legal, and construction teams to ensure projects are investment-ready.

• Manage project timelines, budgets, and risks throughout the development lifecycle.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Renewable Energy, Environmental Science, Business, Engineering, or a related field.

• 3+ years of experience in utility-scale solar or renewable energy development.

• Strong understanding of real estate transactions, permitting processes, and interconnection procedures.

• Experience negotiating land acquisition agreements and working with regulatory agencies.

• Knowledge of energy markets, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and project finance is a plus.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong project management and organizational skills.

• Excellent negotiation and communication abilities.

• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, legal, and finance teams.

• Proficiency in GIS mapping tools, Excel, and financial modeling software is a plus.

• Willingness to travel as needed for site visits and stakeholder meetings.