Development Manager, Utility Scale Project
Development Manager, Utility Scale Project
planet groupSan Diego, CA
Apply for this role →2 days ago
Job Overview:
We are seeking experienced professionals to lead the development of large-scale renewable energy assets within our West Region. These positions are deeply technical and regulatory in nature. You will be responsible for navigating the complex lifecycle of utility-scale solar, wind, and storage projects—transforming raw land into operational, grid-connected power plants. The ideal candidate possesses a mix of real estate acumen, technical understanding of power grids, and the persistence to manage multi-year permitting and interconnection timelines. You'll manage ~6 projects (3 active), lead development across solar, storage, and wind, handle permitting (including NEPA), collaborate cross-functionally, engage stakeholders, and mitigate risks. These roles focus on utility-scale renewable energy project development across solar, battery storage, and wind.
Core Responsibilities:
(Both Levels)Site Control: Lead the identification, evaluation, and secured site control of viable land for utility-scale deployment. Interconnection Management: Navigate the ISO/RTO interconnection queues and manage the technical studies required for grid injection. Permitting & Entitlements: Manage the environmental and land-use permitting process at the local, state, and federal levels (including CEQA/NEPA where applicable).Project Economics: Maintain rigorous project models, tracking development budgets and ensuring assets meet internal "Final Investment Decision" (FID) criteria. Technical Coordination: Collaborate with specialized engineering and GIS teams to optimize site layouts and technology selection. Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities (Both Levels):Proven ability to deliver large-scale utility energy development projects from origination through financing and construction readiness Strong contract negotiation skills with a command of the legal knowledge required for successful agreement management Thorough understanding of project development risks and the ability to frame issues with context, analysis, recommendations, and risk/benefit tradeoffs for leadership Demonstratable knowledge of interconnection processes, permitting, real estate, and state/federal regulation affecting renewable energy projects Strong financial analysis capabilities, including experience with project economic modeling and budget management, and impacts associated with local incentives and property taxes Experience with project financing structures, Power Purchase Agreements, and investor documentation Effective communicator who collaborates well with senior management, peers, and external third parties across diverse backgrounds Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Power Point), GIS tools, and project management software (e.g., Share Point, Microsoft Project, or similar platforms)Self-starter who thrives managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Job Qualifications: Development Manager
Experience:
Minimum of 8 years of directly related experience in renewable energy project development, with at least 3 years managing energy-related projects through the full development lifecycle. Direct experience in utility-scale energy, infrastructure, or heavy industrial land development
Technical Skills:
Familiarity with power markets, land-use law, and project management software (e.g., MS Project or Primavera)
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, or Environmental Science Sr. Development Manager
Experience:
A minimum of 10+ years in utility-scale renewables with a track record of successfully de-risking projects for construction. Demonstrated experience developing utility-scale solar, wind, or battery storage projects in western U.S. markets, with working knowledge of CAISO, WECC, and other relevant ISO/RTO markets Expertise: Deep knowledge of power purchase agreements (PPAs), transmission constraints, and tax equity structures Leadership: Ability to lead cross-functional project teams and provide strategic direction for the West Region portfolio
Also on the board Same function, level within a rung
Level
Senior
Location
San Diego, CA
Occupation
Wind Energy Development Managers
Industry
Other Electric Power Generation
Posted
2 days ago