Project Developer - Samuel Knight Energy : Job Details

Job Title: Project Developer

Job Summary

The Utility-Scale Solar Project Developer is a critical role responsible for managing the end-to-end development of large-scale solar and solar-plus-storage projects (typically 10+ MW) from origination to the start of construction. This role requires a blend of technical, financial, and interpersonal skills to navigate complex permitting, land use, and interconnection processes. The Developer will work with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders to ensure the project is technically sound, financially viable, and ready for investment.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Origination and Site Development:
• Lead the identification, evaluation, and acquisition of large, contiguous land parcels suitable for utility-scale solar projects.
• Conduct comprehensive due diligence on potential sites, including environmental, geotechnical, and land use assessments.
• Negotiate and secure complex land agreements, such as long-term leases, easements, and purchase agreements with landowners.
• Grid Interconnection and Transmission:
• Manage the entire interconnection process with utilities and regional transmission organizations (RTOs/ISOs).
• Lead the submission of interconnection applications, track study results, and manage the associated costs and timelines.
• Work with internal engineering and external consultants to optimize the project's point of interconnection (POI) and transmission strategy.
• Permitting, Zoning, and Regulatory Affairs:
• Serve as the primary liaison with local, state, and federal authorities to secure all necessary permits and approvals, including conditional use permits, zoning variances, and environmental clearances.
• Manage the public hearing process and address stakeholder concerns to garner community and political support for the project.
• Ensure all project development activities comply with federal and state regulations, including FERC and EPA guidelines.
• Financial Analysis and Commercial Strategy:
• Develop and maintain sophisticated financial models (e.g., in Excel) to evaluate project economics, including project valuation, levelized cost of energy (LCOE), and ROI.
• Negotiate and structure key commercial agreements, such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with large utility or corporate off-takers.
• Collaborate with finance and legal teams to prepare the project for a successful financial close.
• Project Management and Stakeholder Engagement:
• Manage the project budget, schedule, and risks, ensuring all milestones are met on time and within cost constraints.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including landowners, local government officials, community members, and consultants.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, public forums, and stakeholder meetings to advocate for the project.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Experience:
• Minimum of 2+ years of direct experience in utility-scale renewable energy project development, with a focus on solar.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and permitting at least 50+ MW of solar projects.
• Education:
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Business, Finance, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related discipline. An MBA or other advanced degree is a plus.
• Technical Knowledge:
• Deep understanding of the utility-scale solar development process, from greenfield origination to NTP (Notice to Proceed).
• Expertise in land acquisition, zoning, and permitting for large-scale energy infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of the interconnection process and the functions of regional grid operators (e.g., ERCOT, PJM, CAISO).
• Financial Acumen:
• Highly proficient in financial modeling and project finance concepts (e.g., debt financing, tax equity, and asset valuation).
• Soft Skills:
• Exceptional negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to influence and persuade a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Outstanding project management and organizational abilities to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with constantly evolving priorities.
• Other Requirements:
• Willingness to travel frequently for site visits, public hearings, and meetings.
• A valid driver's license and a clean driving record.