Job description

Date: Feb 5, 2025

Company: Zelestra

Location

USA, REMOTE

Mission

At Zelestra, we are on a mission to change the world by making decarbonization a reality for our partners. As a client-focused, multi-technology, global renewable energy company, we work tirelessly to do things right, to push ourselves and our clients further, and to get the results that matter.

With a key emphasis on innovation and collaboration, Zelestra is committed to helping customers, communities, and stakeholders through tailored solutions, local employment, and strong sustainability.

With more than two decades of experience working in 13 countries, Zelestra is a trusted partner with proven capabilities in providing efficient, competitive, carbon-free solutions. With a portfolio of 20 GW of carbon-free projects across 13 countries, Zelestra is a vertically integrated company specializing in developing, constructing, commercializing, and operating large-scale renewable energy projects.

Zelestra is made up of 800+ professionals globally. It is backed by EQT, one of the largest fund managers in the world, with $232B in assets under management.

Responsibilities

The Project Development Manager will be responsible for overseeing the development of renewable energy projects from inception to execution. This includes managing all aspects of project development, from early-stage planning and permitting to the successful delivery of energy assets. The role requires strong project management skills, technical knowledge of renewable energy technologies, and the ability to coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure timely and cost-effective project execution. Key responsibilities will include;

Project Planning and Feasibility: Lead the identification and evaluation of new renewable energy projects (solar, wind, storage, etc.).Conduct technical, financial, and environmental feasibility studies to assess potential sites and technologies.
Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including landowners, local authorities, utilities, and regulatory bodies.
Project Design and Development: Oversee the design, permitting, and land acquisition process for renewable energy projects. Ensure adherence to technical specifications, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
Budget and Resource Management: Develop detailed budgets and secure project financing in collaboration with financial teams. Monitor project budgets and expenditures to ensure they align with projections.
Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks, including technical, environmental, and financial risks.
Progress Monitoring and Reporting: Monitor project progress, ensuring that milestones are met according to the agreed timeline.

Job Requirements

BA or BS in a relevant field; MBA or MA is a plus
3-5 years experience in Project Development within Renewable Energy
Experience with Utility Scale Solar, Wind or BESS projects. Experience in MISO, SERC, ERCOT and SPP is preferred
Ability to manage multiple projects at varying stages and complexities
Understanding of the development process for renewable energy projects in various regions of the U.S.
Strong ability to perform at a high level in a matrixed organization managing multiple projects and relationships simultaneously with minimal supervision
Organized with a high attention to detail and curiosity
Proficiency with spreadsheets, scheduling. and presentation tools
Accounting: Project-level invoicing & cost management
Finance: project-level financial model, financier due diligence,
EPC: real estate & permitting requirements
Strong decision-making skills when faced with uncertainty
Strong entrepreneurial, executive, analytical, organizational, and people skills
Strong Project Management skills
Team player with Strong strong oral and written communication skills
Demonstrated leadership skills working in a collaborative and supportive manner
Ability to travel throughout the U.S. to meet landowners and other stakeholders for Zelestra projects
Ability to travel up to 30% of the time