Project Development Manager

Date: Aug 3, 2026 Company: Zelestra Join Zelestra: Powering a Carbon-Free Future At Zelestra, we’re driving global decarbonization with innovative, large-scale renewable energy solutions. With 20+ years of experience in 13 countries and a portfolio of 20 GW of carbon-free projects, we deliver results that matter. Our 800+ professionals thrive on collaboration, sustainability, and making a real impact—backed by EQT, one of the world’s largest fund managers. Ready to help shape a sustainable world? Join us! Position Snapshot Industry:  Utility-Scale Renewable Energy Location: U.S. Job Type: Remote l Full-Time | Permanent Role Reports To: Director of Development Position Summary Zelestra is seeking a skilled Project Development Manager to lead the development of new energy infrastructure. You’ll be a part of a dedicated team focused on mid-to late-stage project development in MISO with the specific goal of delivering construction-ready renewable energy projects on-time to meet our customer commitments. Position Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, environmental studies, business, or a related field. 6+ years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a proven track record of successfully advancing renewable energy projects to Notice to Proceed (NTP). Experience navigating county permitting processes Experience in utility-scale renewable energy project development is preferred. Strong market knowledge, due diligence capabilities, and excellent communication skills. Demonstrated success working across real estate, permitting, interconnection, power marketing, and EPC activities. Ability to collaborate effectively with subject matter experts and due diligence teams throughout all project phases. Skilled in financial modeling and project economics. Highly organized, adaptable, and capable of thriving in a fast-paced, cross-functional team environment. Excellent relationship management skills with internal and external stakeholders. Willingness to travel up to 30% as project needs require . Position Responsibilities Lead all of mid-to late-stage utility-scale renewable energy projects in close collaboration with subject matter experts. Manage the interconnection process with sensitivity to utility and ISO requirements. Oversee project design and engineering. Work closely with internal and external engineers to optimize project competitiveness. Direct stakeholder engagement, including to local, state, and federal agencies, landowners , and community members. Develop and manage comprehensive project budgets and schedules, and provide key economic inputs for financial modeling and investment decisions. Coordinate internal and external resources across disciplines—real estate, permitting, interconnection, transmission, marketing, engineering, and financing. Collaborate closely with the Project Finance team to align deal structure, tax strategy, and financial assumptions with underwriting requirements . Monitor and analyze U.S. market trends and policy developments to identify risks and opportunities, advising on their strategic implications. Ensure effective communication with all project stakeholders, fostering alignment and addressing concerns to support smooth project progression. Drive late-stage project readiness, ensuring all commercial, technical, and financial elements are in place for successful execution and financing. Compensation and Benefits The anticipated starting salary range for this role is $130,000 - $160,000 annually. Actual pay may vary depending on job-related factors, such as the candidate’s experience and qualifications . Additionally, Zelestra offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, an Employee Assistance Program, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, holiday pay, paid time off, and a competitive bonus program. Zelestra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established by law. #LI-SG1 #LI-REMOTE Let's co-build a carbon-free tomorrow! Visit us at zelestra.energy