Project Origination Manager ?Utility Scale Solar and BESS (WECC and Mountain Region)

Project Origination Manager – Utility Scale Solar and BESS (WECC and Mountain Region)

Leap29 is partnering with a leading US Project Development and Investment team seeking an accomplished Project Origination Manager specializing in Utility Scale Solar and Battery projects for the WECC and Mountain region. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and growing team, reporting directly to the Head of Utility Origination. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success. This position is also available to be based remote.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and originate utility-scale solar and battery development opportunities, focusing on site control and assessing the feasibility of interconnection, permitting, and revenue contracts.
• Engage with early-stage local developers, leading negotiations for project acquisitions, partnership structures, or joint development agreements.
• Spearhead greenfield solar and battery project development by creating and updating project maps and databases using GIS tools, targeting attractive interconnection points.
• Prospect and secure greenfield and brownfield sites through land options, leases, and purchases with landowners.
• Conduct market and regulatory research to formulate a robust market development strategy.
• Explore revenue opportunities for controlled sites, tailoring strategies to each location.
• Coordinate tasks across Legal, Engineering, Finance, and Project Management teams.
• Support financial modeling efforts to evaluate project economics.
• Stay informed on industry trends and market developments to quickly identify new business opportunities.

Required Experience:

• Proven track record in successfully negotiating and closing commercial deals with landowners, developers, utilities, regulatory bodies, and offtakers.
• BS degree required; MBA or relevant master’s degree preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of the solar industry, regional regulations, and market dynamics.
• Experience with RTOs (WECC / Mountain region, regulated utilities, multinational environments, legal frameworks, and full-cycle development is a plus.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• A strong passion for the solar and renewable energy sector.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive, problem-solving attitude and a drive to achieve results.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to identify key risks and create win-win scenarios.
• Adaptability and resilience, with the ability to manage unexpected challenges effectively.
• Strong team player, dedicated to achieving team goals.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to manage interactions at all levels.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering excellence in all tasks.

If you’re excited about this outstanding opportunity, please forward your CV to Rob Byrom.