Project Developer

Position Overview

We have some awesome development plans for Illinois – and we’re looking for someone ready to step up and make them happen! Distributed Sun seeks an experienced renewable energy developer to focus on the origination permitting processes - and associated discovery and reporting - for portfolios of established, early-stage projects. Current efforts include Community Solar and Battery Storage projects; while the focus for this role is New York, New Jersey experience would be a bonus.

The Senior Project Developer will collaborate with other members of the Development Team taking responsibility for all aspects of project development. This may include site origination, design, interconnection, project budget management and financing. Critically, they will frequently represent the company and project, often alone, in front of various stakeholders and governing bodies.

About The Distributed Sun Group About Distributed Sun group

Distributed Sun (DSUN) is a clean energy infrastructure provider, proudly independent since 2009, that develops, finances, owns, and operates solar and battery storage projects across the community solar, commercial & industrial, and utility-scale markets. We’ve delivered groundbreaking systems – many the first of their kind – in 17 states. Being nimble, forward-thinking, creatively bold, and constructively challenging is in our DNA, and we look for those same qualities in our team. It’s how we’ve led and thrived for over 15 years. Join us, and you’ll be part of a curious, committed team accelerating the clean energy transition through smart infrastructure and bold ideas.

DSUN is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. Employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

Core Responsibilities

• Ensure key development milestones are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including utilities, landowners and vendors. Where required, perform community outreach.
• Represent projects at public meetings and hearings.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to assess and overcome challenges.
• Understand and track zoning, environmental and other policies impacting the projects you represent. As needed, advocate for policy change and/or adoption.
• Manage the compilation of application materials and all stages of relevant permitting processes.
• Support the operations of the business by maintaining accurate and timely records. Contribute to budgeting and planning elements for company forecasting and sales.
• Be a team player: participate in continually enhancing a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with focus in engineering, environmental science, real estate, public policy, or related field, or a minimum of 6 years of additional demonstrable progression within the wider renewable energy industry, beyond the experience described below
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with distribution-level experience preferred. Must have experience of solar PV and/or battery energy storage systems.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with local governments in rural locations, resulting in mutually agreeable outcomes.
• Availability to undertake frequent travel to existing or potential project sites, often in rural locations and sometimes on short notice
• Proven track record of successfully contributing to the delivery of complex renewable energy projects, with a deep understanding all aspects of the development cycle from origination to COD.
• Detailed understanding of renewable energy technologies, project finance, permitting processes, and regulatory frameworks. Familiarity with mapping tools is useful. Understanding of real estate and energy project development documentation and documentation management and legal structuring welcomed.
• Demonstrated tenacity, resilience, and problem-solving ability to overcome challenges and produce results in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with education and experience
• Bonus compensation plan
• Equity option award
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Health, dental, and vision benefits plan