Greenfield Origination 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 Land & Real Estate

Position Summary

The Greenfield Origination Manager will lead land acquisition and early-stage project origination activities for renewable energy projects, from identifying and evaluating potential greenfield sites through securing and maintaining site control during early-stage development. This role will oversee land campaigns, site feasibility assessments, including grid injection capacity, permitting, and zoning, as well as real estate due diligence, title reviews, mineral rights, surveys, and land agreements.

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in a relevant field.
• 5–8 years of experience in land acquisition, greenfield origination, or renewable energy development.
• Experience with utility-scale solar, wind, or BESS projects; knowledge of MISO, ERCOT, and SPP markets preferred.
• Strong understanding of greenfield site evaluation, interconnection capacity, permitting, zoning, and early-stage project development.
• Proven ability to manage land acquisition campaigns, land agents, site control activities, and multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong project management skills, including budgeting, cost tracking, scheduling, and stakeholder coordination.
• Excellent analytical, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tools.
• Ability to travel up to 30% throughout the U.S.

Position Responsibilities

• Site Identification & Analysis: Identify and evaluate potential sites for solar, wind, and BESS projects, assessing land suitability, infrastructure, environmental constraints, and commercial viability.
• Early-Stage Development: Conduct feasibility assessments, interconnection capacity screening, and preliminary permitting and zoning reviews to support project selection and go/no-go decisions.
• Market Analysis: Evaluate regional market conditions, land costs, and commercial terms to support development strategies.
• Land Acquisition: Lead land acquisition campaigns, manage land agents, and negotiate agreements to secure site control.
• Real Estate & Legal: Oversee land agreements, leases, purchase options, and contractual risks in partnership with Legal and Development teams.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build relationships with landowners, local authorities, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders.
• Budget & Risk Management: Develop acquisition budgets, forecast site control costs, and identify and mitigate project risks.
• Project Execution: Track acquisition milestones, manage timelines, and provide regular progress updates to ensure alignment with development goals.

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated starting salary for this role is $160,000 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