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Solar Development Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Valid8 Financial, Inc.

$75K - $100K/yr

MinimumRequirements and Qualifications: 5 years of business development and client account management experience in the renewable energy sector or related industries (solar, energy, real estate ...

Rockstar

Business Development Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$52K - $71K/yr

... manufacturing, solar, and wind. About the Role The company is looking for an ambitious and ... Must have top-of-the-funnel business development experience (e.g., cold outreach, customer research)

New

Rockstar

Business Development Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$47K - $65K/yr

... manufacturing, solar, and wind. About the Role The company is looking for an ambitious and ... Must have top-of-the-funnel business development experience (e.g., cold outreach, customer research)

New

First Solar

Development Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Associate's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 20 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer II at First Solar.

GRID ALTERNATIVES

Solar Installer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$24 - $27.50/hr

... development, green jobs and/or helping families and communities in need It would be great if you also had... * Knowledge of introductory solar theory * NABCEP Associate Certification or solar ...

GRID Alternatives

Solar Installer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$24 - $27.50/hr

... development, green jobs and/or helping families and communities in need It would be great if you also had... * Knowledge of introductory solar theory * NABCEP Associate Certification or solar ...

First Solar

Development Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Associate's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 15 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer I at First Solar.

First Solar

Development Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$89K - $127K/yr

... experience as an Associate Engineer or Development Engineer Technician III at First Solar ... Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 3 years of ...

First Solar

Development Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$89K - $127K/yr

... experience as an Associate Engineer or Development Engineer Technician III at First Solar ... Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 3 years of ...

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Solar Development Associate information

What is a solar development associate?

Solar Development Associates are professionals who support the planning, permitting, and development of solar energy projects. They assist with site selection, environmental assessments, regulatory compliance, and project coordination. Their work involves collaborating with engineers, landowners, government agencies, and other stakeholders to move solar projects from inception through construction. Solar Development Associates play a key role in ensuring that projects are feasible, compliant, and completed on schedule.

What are some typical challenges faced by solar development associates during the permitting and site selection process?

Solar Development Associates often encounter challenges such as navigating complex permitting regulations, securing land agreements, and addressing community concerns. Each project may involve coordinating with local authorities, utility companies, and stakeholders to ensure compliance and smooth progress. Successful associates need strong problem-solving and communication skills to manage these hurdles and keep projects on track. Being proactive and detail-oriented is crucial when dealing with evolving policies or unexpected site constraints.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar development associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Development Associate, you need a solid understanding of renewable energy markets, project management, and site assessment, often backed by a degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, permitting software, and knowledge of regulatory frameworks are typically required. Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help you navigate stakeholder relationships and address project challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial to successfully initiating, evaluating, and advancing solar projects in a competitive and evolving industry.

What is the difference between Solar Development Associate vs Solar Project Coordinator?

AspectSolar Development AssociateSolar Project Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, environmental science, or related field; knowledge of solar industryBachelor's degree; project management experience; familiarity with solar projects
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits; collaboration with development teamsOffice and field work; coordinating project activities
Employer & Industry UsageSolar developers, renewable energy firmsSolar project management teams, EPC contractors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Solar Development Associate focuses on early-stage project development, including site assessment and permitting, while the Solar Project Coordinator manages project execution, scheduling, and coordination during construction. Both roles require related skills and work within the solar industry, but they differ in their primary responsibilities and project phases.

Is it hard to get a job in solar?

Getting a job as a Solar Development Associate can be competitive but is achievable with relevant skills such as project management, knowledge of solar technology, and sometimes a background in engineering or environmental science. Entry-level positions may require some experience or certifications, but the industry is growing and offers opportunities for those with the right qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Development Associate jobs in California?

For Solar Development Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Development Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Development Associate jobs in California are:

Solar Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Development Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Business Development Associate/Client Account Manager - Solar

Chatsworth, CA • On-site

Green Water & Power, LLC
See more jobs at Green Water & Power, LLCexternal

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Build ongoing relationships with existing customers and prepare tailored proposals for deal closure.

  • Identify and engage potential clients to originate and close C&I solar projects, including commercial property owners, developers, and businesses.

  • Generate leads and convert prospects into clients for O&M contracts for operating solar systems.

Job description

Company Overview: Established in California in 2013, Green Water and Power has rapidly grown to operate in over 35 states, positioning itself as a leader in the sustainable energy sector. Named the #1 electric vehicle (EV) installer in America, we take pride in having deployed more than 14,000 EV chargers and completed approximately 5 megawatts (MW) of solar energy projects.
As an EVITP (Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program) certified turnkey engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firm, we leverage our in-house expertise to efficiently manage and execute large-scale projects. Our dedication to sustainability and quality extends beyond project completion; we also provide comprehensive operation and maintenance services to ensure optimal performance for the projects we develop, as well as for third-party installations.
Position Overview: As a Business Development Associate/Client Account Manager at Green Water and Power, you will be instrumental in expanding our solar energy portfolio, focusing on commercial and industrial (C&I) greenfield projects, third-party operations and maintenance (O&M) service contracts, and solar land leasing. Your role will involve identifying strategic opportunities, building relationships with landowners and commercial clients, and closing complex solar transactions.
Responsibilities and Duties:
  • Close deals with existing customers by building ongoing relationships and preparing tailored proposals for execution.
  • Originate and close C&I solar projects by identifying and engaging potential customers, including commercial property owners, developers, and businesses.

  • Generate leads and convert prospects into clients for O&M contracts for operating solar systems not built initially by Green Water and Power.

  • Maintain a strong understanding of solar incentives, financing structures, permitting processes, and applicable regulatory requirements.

  • Represent Green Water and Power at client meetings, conferences, and industry events to promote services and identify new opportunities.

  • Track and manage opportunities using Salesforce, ensuring accurate records and timely follow-ups throughout the sales cycle.

  • Collaborate with engineering and project teams to develop and present customized solar proposals.

  • Stay informed on market trends and competitor offerings to maintain a competitive edge.

Minimum Requirements and Qualifications:
  • 5 years of business development and client account management experience in the renewable energy sector or related industries (solar, energy, real estate, utilities).

  • Excellent client-facing communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

  • Highly self-motivated and results-driven.

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, developing spreadsheets, proposals, presentations, and other documents.

  • Experience using Salesforce or other CRM platforms.

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.

  • Willingness to travel

Benefits:
  • Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a rapidly expanding industry.

  • A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity.

  • Opportunity to make a significant impact on the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

Compensation:
  • This is a full-time position with a salary range of $75,000-$100,000 annually, plus performance-based bonus.

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