Project Development Manager - Solar & BESS

Climate17; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in renewable energy is seeking a Project Development Manager to oversee the development of utility-scale solar and battery storage projects. This key role involves managing permitting, interconnection, and project entitlements, ensuring assets are construction-ready. With a focus on major energy markets, the position offers significant leadership opportunities and the chance to make a real impact in the clean energy transition. If you are passionate about renewable energy and have a proven track record in project development, this role is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in project development in renewable energy.
• Proven experience managing projects through all development stages.

Responsibilities

• Lead entitlement, interconnection, and permitting efforts for projects.
• Manage schedules and budgets for solar and battery storage systems.

Skills

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Risk Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Job description

Climate17 is proud to partner with a global leader in renewable energy development, specialising in solar, energy storage, and green hydrogen. With a proven track record of delivering over 5 GW of renewable energy projects across multiple continents – and over 3 GW of solar and 2 GW of BESS under development in the US – they are committed to driving the clean energy transition globally.

Position: Project Development Manager

Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid: 3 days in office a week)

Travel: Up to 10%

Your Opportunity:

This is a key role within the project development team, responsible for managing the end-to-end development of utility-scale solar and battery storage projects. You will oversee permitting, interconnection, and project entitlements to ensure assets are construction ready. Operating within major energy markets including MISO, SPP, PJM, and ERCOT, this position offers full ownership of development processes within a growing pipeline and provides significant opportunities for leadership and impact in renewable energy.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead project and portfolio-level entitlement, interconnection, and permitting efforts within defined markets.
2. Manage project schedules and budgets for utility-scale solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
3. Evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of projects at various development stages.
4. Identify and mitigate development risks, providing concise recommendations to leadership.
5. Supervise and mentor junior project developers, providing strategic guidance and problem-solving support.
6. Collaborate with internal construction and procurement teams to meet project budgets and timelines.

What You Bring:

1. Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
2. Minimum of 4 years of experience in project development, preferably within renewable energy, solar PV, utility-scale or C&I.
3. Strong communication and analytical skills.
4. Proven experience managing renewable energy projects through all stages of development.

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 resources in order to participate in the job application or interview process, please let us know.