What are the responsibilities and job description for the Solar Project Developer position at US Solar?
About US Solar
US Solar is a developer, owner, operator, and financier of solar and solar storage projects, with a focus on emerging state markets, community solar programs, DG BESS and other forms of distributed generation.
US Solar is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We believe diverse teams and diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes and breakthrough thinking, which are differentiators in any business and fundamental to our long-term success.
PROJECT DEVELOPER
US Solar is seeking a six-month contract Project Developer or Associate Project Developer in its Minneapolis office. The Project Developer will be responsible for site acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and other development activities for distributed-generation solar projects with a focus on community solar. This employee will understand the market they work in, strategize and execute the development strategy. The Project Developer will have the support of a small, close-knit development team and have a high degree of autonomy. US Solar is a high-growth company looking for a high achiever to fill this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Working with landowners who are interested in our offer to lease or purchase their land, ultimately securing site control agreements
- Coordinating with third-party engineering firms on due diligence and project deliverables
- Navigating the interconnection process with the utilities, tracking all milestones, due dates, fees, etc.
- Securing land use permits and other pre-construction approvals from Local Government Units (LGUs)
- Preparing projects for construction commencement in coordination with US Solar’s operations team
- Cultivating and maintaining positive relationships (with landowner, utility, and LGU) throughout the development lifecycle
- Monitoring and analyzing market factors, including new legislation/regulation
- Preparing budget requests to obtain internal approvals for major project expenses
- Supporting and coordinating with key functional teams, including Site Selection, Origination, Legal, Finance, Operations and Asset Management
Core Proficiencies
- Previous solar development experience is preferred but not required
- Ability to research and learn a new process (e.g., studying a LGU’s ordinance for permitting or learning the interconnection application process of a new utility)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including an ability to tailor communication to different types of audiences, such as farmers, utility employees, and government employees
- Ability to forge relationships and build consensus with key stakeholders
- Strong problem-solving skills and can work through never-before-seen issues autonomously but knows when to seek support from teammates
- Detail-oriented and self-motivated achiever with ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines
- Ability to consistently stay organized
- Enthusiasm and passion for the renewable energy industry