Project Development Manager MISO

Join Zelestra: Powering a Carbon-Free Future

Position Snapshot

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

Position Summary

Zelestra is seeking a skilled Project Development Manager to lead the development of new energy infrastructure. You’ll be a part of a dedicated team focused on mid-to late-stage project development in MISO with the specific goal of delivering construction-ready renewable energy projects on-time to meet our customer commitments. 

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, environmental studies, business, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a proven track record of successfully advancing renewable energy projects to Notice to Proceed (NTP).
• Experience in utility-scale renewable energy project development is preferred.
• Strong market knowledge, due diligence capabilities, and excellent communication skills.
• Demonstrated success working across real estate, permitting, interconnection, power marketing, and EPC activities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with subject matter experts and due diligence teams throughout all project phases.
• Skilled in financial modeling and project economics.
• Highly organized, adaptable, and capable of thriving in a fast-paced, cross-functional team environment.
• Excellent relationship management skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% as project needs require.

Position Responsibilities

• Lead all of mid-to late-stage utility-scale renewable energy projects in close collaboration with subject matter experts.
• Manage the interconnection process with sensitivity to utility and ISO requirements.
• Oversee project design and engineering.  Work closely with internal and external engineers to optimize project competitiveness.
• Direct stakeholder engagement, including to local, state, and federal agencies, landowners, and community members.
• Develop and manage comprehensive project budgets and schedules, and provide key economic inputs for financial modeling and investment decisions.
• Coordinate internal and external resources across disciplines—real estate, permitting, interconnection, transmission, marketing, engineering, and financing.
• Collaborate closely with the Project Finance team to align deal structure, tax strategy, and financial assumptions with underwriting requirements.
• Monitor and analyze U.S. market trends and policy developments to identify risks and opportunities, advising on their strategic implications.
• Ensure effective communication with all project stakeholders, fostering alignment and addressing concerns to support smooth project progression.
• Drive late-stage project readiness, ensuring all commercial, technical, and financial elements are in place for successful execution and financing. 

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated starting salary range for this role is $120,000 - $160,000 annually.  Actual pay may vary depending on job-related factors, such as the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Additionally, 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.