Development Manager ERCOT - Solar & BESS - Leap29 : Job Details

Leap29 is seeking a highly skilled Project Development Manager to lead the development of large-scale renewable energy projects across the ERCOT, MISO, and SPP regions. This role provides an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of the energy transition, driving utility-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects throughout the central United States.Key Responsibilities:

• Project Lifecycle Management:
  • Oversee the full development lifecycle of utility-scale solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems (BESS) from the greenfield stages through to successful commercial operation dates (COD).
  • Take charge of strategy formulation, site identification, land acquisition, interconnection, permitting, environmental studies, engineering design, and pre-construction planning.
• Team Leadership and Collaboration:
  • Lead and coordinate large, multi-disciplinary teams, working closely with commercial and technical experts, external consultants, and junior developers.
  • Provide leadership and mentorship to junior team members, fostering their development and ensuring project success.
• Financial Management:
  • Manage project budgets, timelines, and financial performance, exploring innovative financing structures such as tax abatements and equity financing.
  • Partner with the M&A team to lead the due diligence process for new project acquisitions, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Construction Support:
  • Provide critical support during the construction phase, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of operational excellence and risk mitigation.
• Strategic Contribution:
  • Contribute to the development of regional strategies and actively participate in internal process improvement initiatives to drive organizational success.

What We're Looking For:

• A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in the renewable energy sector, with a strong track record in developing utility-scale projects in North America.
• In-depth knowledge of site identification, interconnection processes, permitting, environmental regulations, and construction management.
• Proven leadership experience in project management, with the ability to mentor and develop junior team members.
• Flexibility to travel to project sites across the ERCOT, MISO, and SPP regions is required for this role.