Project Development Manager

About Us

We are a leading distributed generation solar, energy storage, and microgrid developer, owner, and operator, committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions across the United States. Our innovative projects empower communities, businesses, and utilities with reliable, clean energy systems that reduce costs and environmental impact. Operating nationally, we pride ourselves on a collaborative, forward-thinking culture that drives the transition to a greener future. Join our dynamic team and contribute to meaningful projects that shape the energy landscape.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Project Development Manager to support the pre-development phase of our solar, energy storage, and microgrid projects. This role is critical in preparing initiatives for construction readiness, ensuring all necessary entitlements, permits, and financial models are in place. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in renewable energy project development, with expertise in navigating regulatory processes and financial analysis. This position may require occasional travel to project sites or stakeholder meetings nationwide. While we prefer candidates based in our Overland Park, KS office, remote work arrangements may be considered for exceptional applicants.

Key Responsibilities

• Pre-Development Support: Lead and coordinate early-stage project activities, including site assessment, feasibility studies, and preliminary design coordination to ensure projects are viable and aligned with company goals.
• Permitting and Entitlements: Manage the permitting process from application to approval, working with local, state, and federal agencies to secure necessary permits, zoning approvals, environmental clearances, and other entitlements. Identify potential regulatory hurdles and develop strategies to mitigate risks.
• Financial Modeling: Develop and refine comprehensive financial models for projects, including pro forma analysis, cash flow projections, ROI calculations, and sensitivity analyses. Collaborate with finance teams to incorporate incentives, tax credits (e.g., ITC, PTC), grants, and financing structures to optimize project economics.
• Project Readiness for Construction: Oversee the transition from development to construction, ensuring all pre-construction requirements are met, such as interconnection agreements, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and utility coordination. Prepare detailed project handoff documentation for construction teams.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with landowners, utilities, government officials, and community groups to facilitate project advancement. Conduct due diligence on potential sites and negotiate key agreements.
• Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Identify project risks related to development timelines, costs, and compliance; propose and implement mitigation plans to keep projects on track.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, legal, finance, and operations teams to align on project objectives and timelines. Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on project status.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices in renewable energy development to enhance our processes and project outcomes.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in renewable energy project development, with a focus on solar, energy storage, or microgrids. Proven track record in pre-development, permitting, entitlements, and financial modeling.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Environmental Science, Finance, or a related field. Advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, NABCEP) preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in financial modeling software (e.g., Excel, PVSyst, or similar tools). Strong understanding of renewable energy regulations, including NEPA, CEQA, FERC, and local zoning laws.
• Analytical Abilities: Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex data and make data-driven decisions.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with experience preparing reports, presentations, and negotiation documents.
• Travel Readiness: Willingness to travel as needed (up to 20-30% of the time) to project sites, meetings, or conferences.

Preferred Skills and Attributes

• Experience with distributed generation projects, including behind-the-meter installations, community solar, or utility-scale microgrids.
• Familiarity with energy storage technologies and their integration with solar systems.
• Knowledge of federal and state incentives, such as the Inflation Reduction Act provisions.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, distributed team environment.
• Passion for sustainability and a commitment to advancing clean energy solutions.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional growth in a rapidly expanding industry.
• Flexible work arrangements, with a preference for our Overland Park, KS office.
• The chance to make a tangible impact on the environment and communities through innovative energy projects.
• If you are a motivated professional with a proven ability to drive renewable energy projects from concept to construction readiness, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workforce.