Director, Development

Urban Grid, a leading independent power producer, facilitates a rapid and sustainable energy transition by developing high-quality renewable energy projects, fostering community partnerships, and serving as a good land steward. Our company is positioned to own and operate its facilities while cultivating a land management system that benefits farmers, communities, and the natural world through agrivoltaics. Urban Grid maintains a delivery-focused approach with the goal of being a good neighbor, corporate citizen, and trusted energy solutions partner. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, with teams situated strategically throughout the United States, Urban Grid has a long history of contributing to the clean energy economy. In addition to 940 megawatts currently under construction, we are actively developing a growing portfolio of more than 12,000 megawatts of solar PV and 7,000 megawatts of co-located and stand-alone energy storage. To learn more, please visit .
 Urban Grid is a portfolio company of . one of the world’s largest owners and operators of renewable power and climate transition assets.
Join a dynamic team committed to excellence and innovation who envision a future of energy independence using resilient, carbon-free generation. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, a hybrid work environment and the opportunity to make a significant impact in the rapidly evolving renewable energy industry.
Job Summary
The Director, Development will be responsible for leading the development efforts of utility-scale solar projects, with a primary focus on leveraging commercial acumen and building strong relationships with local government authorities to navigate permitting processes effectively. The Director, Development will play a pivotal role in identifying, evaluating, and securing opportunities for solar project development while ensuring alignment with company objectives and regulatory requirements. 
Responsibilities 
Lead the development of utility-scale solar projects from inception to commercial operation, overseeing all aspects of project development, including site identification, land acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and stakeholder engagement.
Lead negotiations and collaborate with landowners, off-takers, suppliers, and other strategic partners to optimize project economics and ensure successful project execution.
Develop and implement strategies to navigate complex regulatory environments, including zoning, permitting, environmental assessments, and other local government requirements.
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including local government officials, regulatory agencies, landowners, community groups, and other relevant parties to facilitate project development and secure necessary approvals.
Conduct comprehensive market analysis and due diligence to identify new development opportunities, assess project feasibility, and mitigate risks.
Work closely with internal cross-functional teams, including engineering, finance, legal, and operations, to ensure seamless project execution and alignment with company objectives.
Stay abreast of industry trends, policy developments, and emerging technologies related to solar energy and renewable project development, providing strategic insights and recommendations to senior management.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline development processes, enhance efficiency, and optimize project outcomes.
Represent the company in industry forums, conferences, and public meetings, advocating for renewable energy policies and promoting the company's brand and values.
Recruit, mentor and lead a team of development professionals to ensure talent is always a competitive advantage.
 
 
 
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, environmental science, or related field; advanced degree (e.g., MBA, JD) viewed favorably.
Proven track record of successfully developing utility-scale solar projects, with a minimum of 7-12 years of experience in solar project development or related field.
Extensive knowledge of regulatory and permitting processes related to utility-scale solar projects, particularly at the local government level.
Strong commercial acumen with experience in negotiating complex agreements and managing project economics.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
Demonstrated leadership abilities with a track record of building and leading high-performing teams.
Analytical mindset with the ability to conduct market analysis, assess project feasibility, and identify strategic opportunities.
Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and effectively manage multiple projects concurrently.
Deep understanding of the renewable energy industry, including market trends, policy landscape, and emerging technologies.
Flexibility to travel as needed to project sites, meetings, and industry events.
Benefits
Urban Grid offers an exciting benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, health savings account, flexible spending account, company-paid life insurance and short-term disability, voluntary life, and long-term disability, paid parental leave, and a retirement plan with matching. Full-time position with a competitive compensation package, including bonus.