At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead utility-scale solar project development and manage a dynamic team.
- Company: Join a growing renewable energy business making a real impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy bonuses, equity incentives, and strong career growth potential.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with exposure to significant solar pipeline.
- Why this job: Shape the future of solar energy while leading innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in renewable energy development and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
A growing renewable energy business is seeking an experienced Vice President of Development to lead utility‑scale solar project development across the PJM region. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving development strategy, managing a team of project developers, and advancing a large and complex pipeline from site acquisition through notice to proceed. The successful candidate will bring deep development experience, strong leadership capability, and the ability to manage regulatory, commercial, and stakeholder challenges across multiple markets. This role is based in Washington, DC and requires regular office presence.
Role Overview
The Vice President of Development will oversee the full lifecycle of utility‑scale solar projects, with responsibility for strategy, execution, team leadership, permitting, stakeholder engagement, and pipeline delivery. This person will work cross‑functionally with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure projects move efficiently from origination through NTP. This is a highly visible role suited to an experienced renewable energy development leader who can balance long‑term strategic thinking with hands‑on execution.
Key Responsibilities
- Development Strategy and Execution: Lead development strategy for utility‑scale solar projects across the PJM region. Oversee the progression of projects from site acquisition through NTP. Ensure development activities remain aligned with commercial targets, timelines, and project readiness requirements.
- Team Leadership: Manage, mentor, and grow a team of project developers. Set performance objectives and help standardise development processes. Provide leadership, coaching, and support to ensure consistent delivery.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the senior point of contact with local and state officials, permitting agencies, landowners, and community groups. Build strong relationships that support project advancement and help reduce project risk. Represent the business in public meetings and other stakeholder forums where required.
- Permitting and Regulatory Oversight: Lead county and state permitting strategy and execution. Support public presentations, hearings, and expert testimony as needed. Ensure projects are advanced in compliance with applicable zoning and permitting requirements.
- Cross‑Functional Coordination: Work closely with Legal, Interconnection, GIS, Real Estate, Environmental, EPC, External Affairs, and Finance teams. Ensure seamless coordination between development and other business functions. Support efficient handoff of projects into later‑stage delivery.
- Risk and Reporting: Identify and manage project risks proactively. Track timelines, budgets, and key milestones. Provide regular updates and reports to executive leadership.
What’s on Offer
- Bonus structure and equity incentives.
- A senior leadership role with direct impact on U.S. growth.
- Exposure to a significant utility‑scale solar pipeline.
- Opportunity to lead and shape a development team.
- Collaborative cross‑functional environment.
- Strong long‑term career potential.
VP of Development in Utility-Scale Solar PV employer: Climate17
As a leading player in the renewable energy sector, our company offers an exceptional work environment for the Vice President of Development in Utility-Scale Solar. Located in Washington, DC, we provide a collaborative culture that fosters innovation and professional growth, alongside competitive benefits including a bonus structure and equity incentives. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the future of solar energy while advancing your career in a dynamic and supportive setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VP of Development in Utility-Scale Solar PV
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the renewable energy sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in utility-scale solar projects. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in project development and stakeholder engagement. We want to see your leadership skills shine!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before interviews! Understand the company’s projects and their impact on the PJM region. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals and how you can drive their development strategy forward. Confidence is key!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team and making a difference in the renewable energy space.
We think you need these skills to ace VP of Development in Utility-Scale Solar PV
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the VP of Development role. Highlight your leadership experience in utility-scale solar projects and any relevant regulatory knowledge to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about renewable energy and how your background makes you the perfect fit for leading our development strategy. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills:Since this role involves managing a team, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led and mentored others in your previous positions. We want to see your ability to inspire and grow a team of project developers!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Climate17
✨Know Your Solar Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and technologies in utility-scale solar PV. Understand the PJM region's specific challenges and opportunities, as this will show your depth of knowledge and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in managing teams and driving project development. Be ready to discuss how you've mentored others and standardised processes in previous roles, as this is crucial for a VP position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach stakeholder engagement. Prepare to discuss strategies you've used to build relationships with local officials, landowners, and community groups, as this will be key in advancing projects.
✨Be Ready for Cross-Functional Coordination
Familiarise yourself with how different departments interact in project development. Be prepared to explain how you've successfully collaborated with legal, environmental, and finance teams to ensure seamless project execution.
