Director of Interconnection & Transmission

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Position Details

Industry:  Utility-Scale Renewable Energy
Location: U.S.
Job Type: Remote l Full-Time | Permanent
Role Reports To: Head of Project Development  

Position Overview

The Director of Interconnection & Transmission is a strategic and technical leader responsible for managing all aspects of interconnection and transmission activities for utility-scale projects. This role is a hands-on position with no direct reports, requiring hands-on execution of tasks while providing subject matter expertise and guidance across the organization. The Director will collaborate closely with development, engineering, and regulatory teams to ensure the timely and cost-effective interconnection of projects to the grid.

Position Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in interconnection, transmission planning, or grid integration for renewable energy projects.
• Strong understanding of ISO/RTO processes, utility interconnection requirements, and FERC regulations.
• Proficiency in power system modeling tools (e.g., PSS/E, PSCAD, PowerWorld).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Attributes for Success:

• Strategic thinker with hands-on technical expertise.
• Strong relationship-building skills with external stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented and proactive problem solver.
• Comfortable operating as an individual contributor while influencing cross-functional teams.
• Ability to communicate clearly and simplify complex concepts to educate management on various US Interconnection processes, risks and opportunities

Position Responsibilities

• Interconnection Strategy & Execution
  • Lead the development and implementation of interconnection strategies for renewable energy projects (solar, wind, storage).
  • Prepare and submit interconnection applications, manage queue positions, and track progress with utilities and ISOs/RTOs.
  • Analyze transmission constraints and identify optimal solutions for project siting and grid access.
• Technical Analysis & Modeling
  • Perform power flow studies, system impact analyses, and review utility/ISO study results.
  • Evaluate interconnection costs, timelines, and risks to inform project financial models.
• Stakeholder Engagement
  • Serve as the primary point of contact with utilities, ISOs/RTOs, and transmission operators.
  • Represent the company in technical meetings, regulatory proceedings, and industry forums.
• Cross-Functional Support
  • Provide technical guidance to development teams during site selection and project design.
  • Collaborate with legal and regulatory teams on interconnection agreements and compliance requirements.
• Process Improvement & Knowledge Sharing
  • Develop internal best practices for interconnection and transmission management.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of grid policies, tariffs, and emerging technologies impacting renewable integration.

Compensation & Benefits

The starting salary for this position is based on experience and qualifications.

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.