Senior Project Development Manager

Taylor Hopkinson; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Taylor Hopkinson is looking for a Senior Project Development Manager, specializing in utility-scale projects in solar PV, BESS, and wind across the Western United States. This hybrid role allows for flexibility in San Diego or San Francisco.

The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in developing utility-scale renewables, adept in managing the complexities of permitting and project financing while leading cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in utility-scale renewables with a strong track record.
• Proficient in PPA, project financing structures, and investor documentation.
• Strong understanding of interconnection processes and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead site control and site evaluation for utility-scale deployment.
• Manage interconnection queues and technical studies for grid injection.
• Oversee permitting processes at various government levels.

Skills

Project development

Contract negotiation

Risk analysis

Financial analysis

Communication

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

GIS tools

Project management software

Job description

Exciting opportunity to join one of the leading global clean energy platforms as a Senior Project Development Manager, focused on utility‑scale Solar PV, BESS, and onshore wind projects across the Western United States. Hybrid in San Diego or San Francisco is accepted. Must have development experience in the West.

Summary

Focused on leading the development of large-scale renewable energy assets within the Western US. Deeply technical and regulatory in nature. Responsible for navigating the complex lifecycle of utility-scale PV, BESS, and Wind projects. Ideal candidates possess a mix of real estate acumen, technical understanding of power grids, and the persistence to manage multi‑year permitting and interconnection timelines.

Responsibilities

Utility‑Scale Project Development Core Responsibilities

• Site Control: Lead the identification, evaluation, and secured site control of viable land for utility‑scale deployment.
• Interconnection Management: Navigate the ISO/RTO interconnection queues and manage the technical studies required for grid injection.
• Permitting & Entitlements: Manage the environmental and land‑use permitting process at the local, state, and federal levels (including CEQA/NEPA where applicable).
• Project Economics: Maintain rigorous project models, tracking development budgets and ensuring assets meet internal "Final Investment Decision" (FID) criteria.
• Technical Coordination: Collaborate with specialized engineering and GIS teams to optimize site layouts and technology selection.

Qualifications

• Experience: A minimum of 10+ years in utility‑scale renewables with a track record of successfully de‑risking projects for construction. Demonstrated experience developing utility‑scale solar, wind, or battery storage projects in western U.S. markets, with working knowledge CAISO, WECC, and other relevant ISO/RTO markets.
• Expertise: Deep knowledge of power purchase agreements (PPAs), transmission constraints, and tax equity structures.
• Leadership: Ability to lead cross‑functional project teams and provide strategic direction for the West Region portfolio.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Proven ability to deliver large‑scale utility energy development projects from origination through financing and construction readiness.
• Strong contract negotiation skills with a command of the legal knowledge required for successful agreement management.
• Thorough understanding of project development risks and the ability to frame issues with context, analysis, recommendations, and risk/benefit tradeoffs for leadership.
• Demonstratable knowledge of interconnection processes, permitting, real estate, and state/federal regulation affecting renewable energy projects.
• Strong financial analysis capabilities, including experience with project economic modeling and budget management, and impacts associated with local incentives and property taxes.
• Experience with project financing structures, Power Purchase Agreements, and investor documentation.
• Effective communicator who collaborates well with senior management, peers, and external third parties across diverse backgrounds.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), GIS tools, and project management software (e.g., SharePoint, Microsoft Project, or similar platforms).
• Self‑starter who thrives managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.