This role is based in Arlington, VA. On-site presence is required. About the Company Join a leading independent power producer at the forefront of renewable energy development. With a footprint across Virginia, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Kentucky, our client develops, constructs, and operates utility-scale solar energy projects. As a subsidiary of a publicly traded Israeli clean energy firm with over 1GW commissioned and a 7GW pipeline globally, the company is shaping the future of sustainable power in the U.S. and beyond. We are seeking a strategic and experienced Director / VP, Utility-Scale Solar Development (PJM Region | Arlington, VA) to lead the full-cycle development of its U.S. solar portfolio, with a focus on the PJM region (VA, WV, PA, KY, OH). This executive role is responsible for managing and scaling a team of developers, guiding solar projects from origination through NTP, and driving cross-functional execution in coordination with internal departments and external stakeholders. The ideal candidate has deep experience in utility-scale solar development, a demonstrated ability to build relationships with permitting authorities and community stakeholders, and the executive presence to represent Energix with landowners, regulators, and strategic partners. This role plays a critical leadership function within the company, overseeing complex portfolios and supporting corporate growth initiatives, including M&A evaluations. Principal Duties & Responsibilities: • Strategic Oversight - Lead the development strategy and execution for utility-scale solar projects from site acquisition through NTP across multiple U.S. markets, focusing on zoning, permitting, community engagement, and project readiness. • Team Leadership - Manage, mentor, and grow a team of project developers. Set performance goals, standardize development processes, and ensure alignment with corporate objectives and timelines. • Stakeholder Management - Serve as the senior representative with local and state officials, permitting agencies, landowners, and community organizations. Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships to support project advancement. • Permitting & Regulatory Navigation - Oversee all permitting strategy and execution at the county and state level, including public presentations and expert testimony where required. • Interdepartmental Leadership - Coordinate closely with internal Legal, Interconnection, GIS, Real Estate, Environmental, EPC, External Affairs, and Finance teams to ensure seamless project progression. • Risk Management - Proactively identify project risks and develop mitigation plans. Track and report on key project metrics, timelines, and budgets to executive leadership. • M&A & Pipeline Expansion - Support project acquisition efforts, including due diligence and integration of acquired assets into the pipeline. • Executive Reporting - Provide regular project pipeline updates, budget forecasts, and progress reports to the executive team. Qualifications & Skills: • 8-10+ years of experience in renewable energy development, with a strong focus on utility-scale solar. • Proven track record of taking projects from origination to NTP, preferably in PJM or similar regulatory environments. • Prior team leadership or senior management experience in development. • Expertise in county zoning, permitting strategy, and stakeholder engagement. • Strong financial and commercial acumen, including familiarity with development-stage budgets and capital planning. • Excellent communication, negotiation, and public speaking skills. • Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree in business, policy, environmental studies, or related field preferred.
See More Details >>Entering the solar trade in Arlington, DC, often begins with a Registered Apprenticeship Program, which combines hands-on experience with technical instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. These apprenticeships typically last about four years and require a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of technical instruction annually. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that the solar industry employed 279,447 workers nationwide as of December 2023, with a 5.9% increase from 2022. In Arlington, DC, the average weekly wage for solar professionals is approximately $860, with experienced workers often earning over $100,000 annually. Training programs and certifications from organizations like NABCEP are crucial for career advancement, offering pathways to stable and well-paying jobs in a rapidly growing sector.
