Project Development Manager - Solar & BESS

Climate17 is proud to partner with a leading US-based renewable energy developer specialising in utility-scale solar project development, ownership, and operations. With a growing pipeline of projects across key US energy markets, the business is expanding its development function and is seeking a Project Development Manager to join its San Antonio-based team. This is a hands-on, fast-paced role offering broad exposure across land acquisition, permitting, and early-stage project development within a highly collaborative environment.

• Position: Project Development Manager
• Location: San Antonio, TX - relocation assistance available.
• Travel: Up to 50% as required across project sites and stakeholder meetings (within TX)

Your Opportunity:

You will take ownership of land and early-stage project development activities across a growing pipeline of utility-scale solar projects. Working closely with internal technical, legal, and commercial teams, you will manage site identification, land agreements, permitting processes, and due diligence activities from origination through to late-stage development. This role offers significant variety, autonomy, and the opportunity to directly influence project success within a fast-moving development environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead land acquisition and site development activities across utility-scale solar projects
• Conduct site identification, real estate research, and early-stage feasibility assessments
• Manage landowner negotiations, leases, easements, ROW, and related agreements
• Coordinate permitting processes across local, state, and federal jurisdictions
• Oversee environmental, geotechnical, hydrological, and title due diligence activities
• Support interconnection and transmission-related inputs in collaboration with engineering teams
• Engage with consultants, legal teams, tax advisors, and EPC contractors to progress projects
• Coordinate zoning, land use, and regulatory compliance activities across multiple sites
• Manage stakeholder relationships including land agents, utilities, and regulatory bodies

What You Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Energy, or related field
• 4 years’ experience in solar project development or land acquisition (renewables preferred)
• Strong experience in land development, real estate negotiation, or land management roles
• Proven ability to negotiate land agreements, easements, ROW, and related contracts
• Strong understanding of permitting processes and jurisdictional requirements
• Familiarity with environmental studies, title review, and land use planning
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple complex workstreams simultaneously
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across technical and non-technical audiences

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose-led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organisations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonisation of the energy sector.

Inclusive Application Process

Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace. We believe there is no solution to climate change without people. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability. If you require additional support, equipment or