Project Origination Manager tility Scale Solar and BESS (North East Region JM, NYISO, ISO-NE)

Project Origination Manager – Utility Scale Solar and BESS (North East Region – PJM, NYISO, ISO-NE)

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 North East region NYISO, ISO-NE, PJM. 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 (PJM, ISO-NE, NYISO), 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.