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GreenSpark Solar creates fiercely local, cost-effective, clean energy options in the Greater Rochester Community. We feel a huge responsibility to succeed at GreenSpark. As a B Corporation, success is directly tied to honoring our triple bottom line of commitments to people (our employees and their families, our Customers and residents of the communities where we do business), planet (our local and the broader global environment) and profits (providing capital to grow, revenue to share among our employees, and a return to our investors). This is important work, and we have fun doing it. Our values are reflected in our workplace - our office is directly powered by onsite wind turbines and solar panels, our fleet includes all electric and hybrid vehicles, dogs roam the office, and we strive to be an unabashedly inclusive, diverse workplace.
Our Values
Find Joy
Keep it Real
Work Together
Believe in People
Be a Leader
GreenSpark Solar is seeking an experienced and proactive Project Developer to join our Commercial Origination team. In this role, you will lead the development and project approval process for a select portfolio of commercial solar projects. Your primary responsibility will be to advance these projects from origination through financial closing and secure notices to proceed. You will work closely with the Commercial Development Manager to inform strategic decision-making and project prioritization, and you will collaborate with internal teams across development, engineering/design, operations, and finance. Additionally, you will be the main point of contact with external development partners, land hosts, and jurisdictional authorities.
Essential Job Functions & Key Responsibilities:
- Project Development: Lead the development of commercial solar projects from origination to notice to proceed, managing key tasks such as environmental due diligence, preliminary design, permitting approvals, and incentive applications.
- Regulatory Compliance: Review and interpret local, state, and federal regulations to create effective project development roadmaps and schedules. Ensure projects meet all regulatory requirements.
- Permitting and Approvals: Secure all necessary local, state, and federal approvals and reviews, including SEQR, zoning permits, DOT permits, wetland permits, and others as required.
- Community Engagement: Represent GreenSpark Solar at municipal board meetings, public hearings, and other community meetings. Present project details confidently and engage with community members.
- Land Host Communication: Support the Site Acquisition Manager in maintaining effective communication with land hosts throughout the project development process.
- Contract Negotiation: Assist the Commercial Development and Site Acquisition Managers in drafting, negotiating, and executing lease agreements, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements, and Host Community Agreements.
- Financial Modeling: Work with the Development Manager to refine financial model inputs to secure successful project financing.
- Stakeholder Relations: Build and maintain positive relationships with project stakeholders, partners, and jurisdictional authorities. Communicate technical and financial information clearly.
- Team Collaboration: Participate in regular team meetings and virtual collaboration spaces to foster open communication and team cohesion.
- Travel: Occasional travel may be required; some evening work will be necessary.
- Innovation and Value Creation: While 80% of your tasks will be defined by specific project needs and other GreenSpark employees, the remaining 20% should be dedicated to generating value, innovation, and contributing positively to the community.
- Bachelor's degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years in solar development or 8 years in a related field such as real estate, construction, or engineering, with a proven track record in project management.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills.
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word & Excel, Google Suite, and team-based work management platforms (e.g., Smartsheets, Slack).
- Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple projects and tasks effectively.
- A firm commitment to GreenSpark's purpose and core values, with a passion for using solar energy to make a positive impact.
- Annual salary range of $60,000 - $90,000
- Weekly pay
- Quarterly bonus potential based on company performance
- 401(k) profit sharing plan
- Comprehensive Medical & Dental Insurance
- GreenSpark covers 75% of health insurance premiums, health deductible expenses, and dental premiums for both employees and their families
- Flexible work schedule and hybrid work arrangements.
- Three weeks (120 hours) of vacation time, plus flexible paid time off (PTO) after the first year.
- 12 days (96 hours) of paid sick leave
- Eight paid company-wide closure days
- Wellness Week: Enjoy a paid collective week off for the entire company
- Company-issued cell phone or reimbursement
- Opportunities for professional growth through training and development programs
- Annual company retreat to foster team building and company culture
- Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support and counseling services
- Pet-friendly work environment
GreenSpark Solar is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind and seek to remove barriers and increase opportunities, access, and advancement for all people. Do not let historical barriers prevent you from jumping on this life-changing opportunity - reach out and ask questions if you have them - we are here!