Senior Solar Project Developer

Senior Solar Project Developer at US Solar Senior Solar Project Developer at US Solar in Saint Paul, Minnesota Posted in about 7 hours ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

Senior Project Developer Location:

Minneapolis, MN Department:

Project Development US Solar is seeking a Project Developer to support the development of distributed?generation solar projects serving municipal, cooperative, and investor?owned utility customers. This role is responsible for leading site acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and project development activities from origination through construction handoff. It also includes communications with external customers. The Project Developer will operate with significant autonomy while collaborating closely with a small, experienced development team. This position is well?suited for a motivated professional who thrives in a fast?growing environment and enjoys navigating complex regulatory, land use, and stakeholder landscapes. 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. Key Responsibilities Originate and secure site control for economically viable, Tier 1 solar project sites through direct landowner outreach and negotiation. Lead project permitting efforts, including land use approvals, local and county entitlements, and other pre?construction permits. Manage community and stakeholder engagement, including coordination with landowners, elected officials, neighbors, and local agencies. Oversee the utility interconnection process, including applications, studies, amendments, schedules, agreements, and associated risks. Coordinate with third?party engineering consultants to advance due diligence and development deliverables. Review technical and engineering analyses to understand impacts on design, production, cost, and project economics. Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and development milestones while tracking critical?path items. Evaluate project viability using financial models and proformas; understand cost drivers and economic sensitivities. Support RFP responses and client proposals by providing accurate development assumptions and inputs. Prepare projects for transition to construction and coordinate effective handoff to internal Operations teams. Monitor relevant policy, regulatory, and tax changes and assess implications for project strategy. Build and maintain productive relationships with landowners, utilities, regulators, and internal cross?functional teams. Qualifications Previous experience in solar project development or a related renewable energy development role (5+ years). Demonstrated ability to originate sites, secure land agreements, and advance projects through permitting and interconnection. Strong understanding of local government processes, land use regulations, and utility requirements. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize work in a deadline?driven environment. Proven self?starter with the ability to work independently while collaborating across teams. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse stakeholders. Effective negotiator with experience managing sensitive conversations with landowners and public officials. Detail?oriented, organized, and comfortable working through unfamiliar challenges. Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with tools such as Point, Zoho, or Google Earth is a plus. Passion for renewable energy and the energy transition.