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Renewable Energy Project Developer Jobs in California

... energy project development, transmission, or power project engineering. * Valid driver's license ... renewable energy project. * Experience in the integration disciplines of a large generation ...

... drafting renewable energy project development agreements, including equipment supply agreements; engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) agreements, and operation and maintenance (O&M ...

... drafting renewable energy project development agreements, including equipment supply agreements; engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) agreements, and operation and maintenance (O&M ...

Showing results 21-40

Renewable Energy Project Developer information

See California salary details

$46.4K

$105.7K

$187.5K

How much do renewable energy project developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for renewable energy project developer in California is $105,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $123,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a renewable energy project developer do?

A Renewable Energy Project Developer is responsible for managing the entire lifecycle of renewable energy projects, such as solar, wind, or hydroelectric installations. Their work includes identifying suitable sites, securing permits, arranging financing, coordinating with stakeholders, and overseeing construction and commissioning. They ensure projects comply with regulations, meet sustainability goals, and are delivered on time and within budget. Developers often work closely with engineers, local governments, and utility companies to bring clean energy solutions to fruition.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a renewable energy project developer?

To thrive as a Renewable Energy Project Developer, you need expertise in project management, financial analysis, and knowledge of renewable energy systems, often backed by a degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), GIS tools, and relevant regulatory frameworks or certifications (such as PMP) is typical. Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills set successful candidates apart. These abilities are critical for efficiently developing complex projects, securing approvals, and driving successful implementation in a rapidly evolving industry.

What are the main collaboration points between a renewable energy project developer and other teams during a project’s lifecycle?

As a Renewable Energy Project Developer, you’ll regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineers, environmental consultants, finance professionals, and legal advisors. Early stages involve working with engineers to assess site feasibility and with environmental teams to ensure compliance with regulations. As the project progresses, you’ll coordinate with finance for securing funding and managing budgets, and legal teams for permitting and land acquisition. Effective communication and teamwork across these groups are essential for moving projects forward smoothly and overcoming common challenges such as regulatory hurdles or technical constraints.

What is the difference between Renewable Energy Project Developer vs Renewable Energy Analyst?

AspectRenewable Energy Project DeveloperRenewable Energy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, environmental science, or related field; certifications like PMP or LEED beneficialBachelor's or master's in environmental science, economics, or related; analytical skills emphasized
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, project sites, office planning, stakeholder meetingsOffice-based, data analysis, report writing, research
Employer & Industry UsageRenewable energy companies, project developers, consulting firmsResearch institutions, consulting firms, energy companies

The main difference is that Renewable Energy Project Developers focus on planning, securing permits, and managing renewable energy projects from inception to completion. In contrast, Renewable Energy Analysts primarily analyze data, market trends, and policy impacts to support project decisions. Both roles require relevant credentials and work within the renewable energy industry, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

What job categories do people searching Renewable Energy Project Developer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Renewable Energy Project Developer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Renewable Energy Project Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,721 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Renewable Energy Project Manager / CEQA Environmental Planner

Hanchey

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description


  • Manage large projects (complex, multidisciplinary projects; EIS/EIR/PEA/AFC) on time and within budget.
  • Focus on renewable energy projects.
  • Provide guidance to clients and team members with federal and state regulations, including CEQA/NEPA, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, and Endangered Species acts.
  • Provides technical training and supervision to staff.
  • Provides a high-level of quality control.
  • Develops proposals; serves as proposal manager; manages preparation of proposals for complex projects, including development of budgets and schedules.
  • Acts as Project Manager to define and oversee work plan for projects under his/her supervision.
  • Coordinates project tasks to meet cost and schedule objectives and is responsible for project performance to meet client and company objectives.
  • Serves as primary client contact on multiple projects under his/her supervision.
  • Serves as technical lead on designated projects.
  • Provides input to Manager/Director to assure the proper utilization and scheduling of staff and advises of project status.
  • Assists with technical review/guidance for departmental staff members.
  • Serves as direct supervisor for department staff.
  • Ability to speak to a potential client panel during interview/bid process.
  • Mentor junior planners and cross-train other staff members and provide opportunities for them to assist with field work as appropriate.
  • Demonstrates experience managing MSAs, including administrative duties, such as staffing, scheduling, budgeting and allocating resources to meet project requirements.
  • Responsible for new bookings with existing and new clients.
  • Serve as Project Manager by preparing project scopes of work, budgets and schedules, coordinating with clients, and planning and executing project and proposal meetings.
  • Provide detailed presentation to potential future clients.

Requirements
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Previous CEQA environmental planning experience related to renewable energy projects (solar, wind, etc.).
  • Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Studies/Science or similar field required, Advanced degree (MS, PhD) preferred.
  • Minimum 8 - 15 years of experience in technical discipline required and 4 years of experience in a technical lead and/or demonstrated leadership preferred. (Advanced degreemay substitute for up to 2 years' experience.)
  • Professional certifications required.

  • Strong conceptual, organizational, problem-solving, and research capabilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal skills.
  • Strong computer and technology skills with working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.
  • Committed to safety and promoting safe behaviors.
  • Strong aptitude and desire to learn the business.
  • Implements project health and safety standards.
  • Contributes to Department and Company Objectives and Key Results.
  • Demonstrate the ability to utilize critical thinking; a flexible approach to problem solving; excellent interpersonal communication (oral and written), planning, and organizational skills; and attention to detail.
  • Exceptional public speaking/presentation skills preferred.
  • Assists with quality control.
  • Demonstrates initiative, and independent thinking.
  • Possesses strong leadership skills, ability to work independently and as a team member, and exemplary work habits, common sense, punctuality, and adaptability.
  • Demonstrates positive motivation and is a self-starter who also works well in team settings, is detail-oriented, and enthusiastic.
  • Performs support in business development, responsible for new bookings, demonstrates initiative, independent thinking, and strong problem-solving skills. Demonstrates strong relationships with clients.