Leap29 · 9 hours ago
Director of Development - Utility Scale Wind, Solar and BESS
Minneapolis, MN
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
8+ years expLeap29 is seeking an experienced renewable energy development leader to drive the origination, development, and execution of utility-scale wind, solar, and battery energy storage projects across the Midwest United States. This senior role will manage projects from early-stage site control through permitting and readiness for construction, while coordinating with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
EmploymentRecruitingStaffing Agency
Hiring Manager
Simon Howard
Responsibilities
Lead end-to-end development of utility-scale wind, solar, and BESS projects across Midwest markets
Identify, evaluate, and secure new project opportunities, including land acquisition, site control, and local partnerships
Manage permitting, zoning, environmental review, and regulatory approvals at local, state, and federal levels
Oversee interconnection processes with regional transmission organizations (e.g., MISO) and utilities
Coordinate with internal teams across engineering, legal, finance, power marketing, and construction
Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and risk assessments
Engage with landowners, community stakeholders, regulators, and elected officials to support project success
Mentor and manage junior development staff and external consultants
Support transaction activities, including project sales, financing, or joint ventures
Monitor policy, market, and regulatory developments impacting Midwest renewable markets
Qualification
Required
8+ years of experience in utility-scale renewable energy project development
Demonstrated success developing wind, solar, and/or BESS projects through key development milestones
Strong knowledge of Midwest power markets, permitting frameworks, and transmission systems
Experience working with MISO interconnection processes
Proven leadership experience managing projects, teams, and external consultants
Strong negotiation skills related to land agreements, commercial terms, and stakeholder engagement
Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
Bachelor's degree in engineering, environmental science, planning, business, or related field (advanced degree a plus)
Preferred
Experience delivering projects to NTP or commercial operation
Familiarity with project finance structures and offtake agreements (PPAs)
Experience working with utilities, IPPs, or renewable energy developers
Established network across Midwest landowners, utilities, and regulatory agencies
Company
Leap29
Leap29 is a recruitment agency that provides PEO, reliable recruitment and employment management support.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase