Development Environmental Manager

Join Zelestra: Powering a Carbon-Free Future

At Zelestra, we are on a mission to change the world by making decarbonization a reality for our partners. As a client-focused, multi-technology, global renewable energy company, we work tirelessly to do things right, to push ourselves and our clients further, and to get the results that matter. With a key emphasis on innovation and collaboration, Zelestra is committed to helping customers, communities, and stakeholders through tailored solutions, local employment, and strong sustainability.

Position Snapshot

Industry:  Utility-Scale Renewable Energy  
Location: U.S. 
Job Type: Remote l Full-Time | Permanent 
Role Reports To: Director of Permitting & Environmental

Position Summary

The Development Environmental Manager supports and leads environmental permitting for Zelestra's utility-scale solar, storage, and wind projects, from greenfield through operations. The role works with M&A, EPC, Engineering, Construction, Development, Finance, and O&M teams on technical studies, environmental regulations, permitting, and authorizations.

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Wildlife, Natural Resources, Civil/Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in environmental, natural resources, or energy projects, preferably in renewable energy
• Experience with solar, wind, storage, and/or transmission permitting, environmental due diligence, and environmental fieldwork.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. environmental laws and permitting, including NEPA, the Clean Water Act (Sections 404/401 and NPDES), the Endangered Species Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and NHPA Section 106.
• Proven experience managing environmental consultants, study scopes, and budgets.
• Experience working directly with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and written communication skills, including technical reports and permit applications.
• Collaborative, solution-oriented approach and the ability to influence cross-functional teams
• Up to 10–25% travel for site visits, agency meetings, and community meetings.

Position Responsibilities

• Develop environmental permitting strategies, schedules, and budgets aligned with development milestones
• Lead environmental due diligence and critical issues (fatal-flaw) analyses for site origination and M&A acquisitions. Identify risks and recommend mitigation.
• Scope, budget for, and manage environmental consultants conducting wetland delineations, biological and protected species surveys, cultural resource surveys, and Phase I environmental site assessments.
• Act as a subject matter expert for natural resource and wildlife issues with federal, state, and local agencies
• Support engineering and layout teams with micrositing, avoidance, and minimization to reduce environmental impacts and permitting risk.
• Coordinate project environmental work with M&A, Development, Engineering, Construction, Finance, Legal, Government Affairs, and O&M. Provide environmental input for financing, tax equity, and investor due diligence.
• Track permitting status, risks, and milestones, and report them to project teams and leadership
• Represent Zelestra in industry groups and technical committees on environmental and wildlife issues. Monitor regulatory changes and report back to the team.

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated starting salary for this role is $130,000 annual plus a competitive bonus structure.  Actual pay will vary depending on job-related factors, such as the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Zelestra offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Life insurance
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Retirement savings benefits