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Solar Development Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

PV Solar Engineer - Remote/Travel Based Position Intertek's Clean Energy Associates (CEA) serves as ... The candidate may also be involved in SOW development, proposal preparation, and report delivery to ...

PV Solar Engineer

Arlington Heights, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

PV Solar Engineer - Remote/Travel Based Position Intertek's Clean Energy Associates (CEA) serves as ... The candidate may also be involved in SOW development, proposal preparation, and report delivery to ...

Senior Associate, Development

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$98K - $125K/yr

... gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing ... Position Overview As a Senior Associate, Renewable Development you will support the department with ...

... gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing ... Position Overview As a Senior Associate, Renewable Development you will support the department with ...

... gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing ... Position Overview As a Senior Associate, Renewable Development you will support the department with ...

Develop and oversee utility-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects from greenfielding ... Provide strategic and technical mentorship to Development Managers, Associates, and other ...

New

Develop and oversee utility-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects from greenfielding ... Provide strategic and technical mentorship to Development Managers, Associates, and other ...

Develop and oversee utility-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects from greenfielding ... Provide strategic and technical mentorship to Development Managers, Associates, and other ...

New

Position Overview As a Director, Renewable Development, you will lead the development of utility ... Manage wind,solar,and storage projectdevelopmentstrategieswithin theMISO, PJM, and TVAmarkets.

Lead regional site origination efforts by identifying, researching, and evaluating potential solar ... Guide and support Site Origination Associates within assigned regions by setting targeting ...

Lead regional site origination efforts by identifying, researching, and evaluating potential solar ... Guide and support Site Origination Associates within assigned regions by setting targeting ...

Develop a portfolio of utility-scale Solar, Wind and Energy Storage projects, from greenfielding to ... Support more junior Development Managers / Associates that are in the lead of individual projects

Develop a portfolio of utility-scale Solar, Wind and Energy Storage projects, from greenfielding to ... Support more junior Development Managers / Associates that are in the lead of individual projects

Negotiate, execute, and manage site control agreements for solar and energy storage projects in ... Bachelor's degree or Associate's with relevant work experience. * 2+ years sales experience, as ...

Negotiate, execute, and manage site control agreements for solar and energy storage projects in ... Bachelor's degree or Associate's with relevant work experience. * 2+ years sales experience, as ...

Showing results 21-40

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 cities in Illinois are hiring for Solar Development Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Solar Development Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Solar Development Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Utility Scale Business Development Associate

Nexamp

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$72K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Do you want to be a part of the clean energy movement? Are you passionate about improving our environment for this generation and those to follow? Are you ready to take on new challenges and collaborate with a future-focused team leading the way into new markets? Join Nexamp!ย 

This is where you can learn from industry leaders and become one yourself. It's fast-paced, mission-based work that challenges the status quo. Be on the team that's changing the world.ย 

What we're looking for:ย 

Nexamp is looking to hire a Utility Scale Business Development Associate. You will be responsible to support the Utility Scale development team throughout the entire development cycle. This role will support the origination of new large-scale projects and help develop them to the point they are financed, and ready for construction. ย 

We are accepting candidates across our hub offices of Chicago, IL, and Austin, TX, where you will be hybrid. You will report to the VP, Utility Scale Development . ย ย 

What you'll do:ย ย 

  • Learn Nexamp's project site selection parameters and development approach.ย 
  • Source new project sites using direct mailers and cold calls. Generate proposals and outreach materials to support project development efforts.ย 
  • Evaluate potential ground and rooftop solar sites using GIS applications.ย 
  • Maintain detailed reports using Salesforce and other applications.ย 
  • Build and preserve relationships with property owners and potential partners.ย 
  • Coordinate with Engineering, Finance, and Legal teams to identify potential project flaws.
  • Provide general administrative support and coordination to the Business Development team as needed.ย ย 

What you'll bring:ย 

  • Bachelor's degreeย 
  • 1+ years of experience in renewable energy, business development, sales, or real estate.ย 
  • Strong sales voice and comfort with persuasive communication, including cold-calling potential prospects.ย 
  • Experience using Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Earth (or similar mapping tool).ย 
  • Highly organized and capable of managing multiple projects, initiatives, and data.
  • GIS experience is preferred.ย 
  • Commitment to Nexamp's mission and have a passion for solving tomorrow's climate crisis today.
  • Demonstrated experience in effectively communicating information, ideas, and perspectives with people inside and beyond your organization.ย  ย 
  • Experience in showcasing initiative to make improvements to current work, processes, products, and services across the organization. We value accountability and an ownership mentality.ย 
  • Ability to ask appropriate questions, analyze data, identify the root causes of problems, and present creative solutions.ย 
  • Expertise in building strong internal and external relationships with customers and stakeholders, instilling trust and loyalty across the industry.ย 
  • Eagerness to develop a fundamental understanding of how Nexamp operates and then apply that knowledge effectively to inform business decisions. ย 

If you don't meet 100% of the above qualifications, but see yourself contributing, please apply.

ย At Nexamp, our mission is to build the future of energy so it is clean, simple, and accessible for all. We are committed to providing a work environment free from discrimination. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. By encouraging a culture where ideas and decisions come from all people, we believe it will help us grow, innovate, and be a part of environmental and social change.

You'll love working here because:ย ย 

Not only will you get to take part in meaningful work and have the chance to change the world alongside innovative, dedicated, and motivated peers, but you will also have access to all the benefits that Nexamp offers! This includes our competitive compensation package; a 401(k) employer-match; health, dental, and vision insurance starting day one; flexible paid time off and holiday PTO; commuter benefits, and cell phone reimbursement. We have headquarters in Boston, MA and Chicago, IL, in addition to growing offices nationwide. We provide healthy snacks, coffee, service days and other volunteer opportunities, company outings, and more!ย ย 

Compensationย 

The reasonably estimated salary for this role at Nexamp ranges from $72,000 - $77,000. In addition to base salary, the competitive compensation package may include, depending on the role, participation in an incentive program linked to performance (for example, annual bonus programs based on individual and company performance, non-annual sales incentive plans, or other non-annual incentive plans). Additionally, you may be eligible to participate in the Company's stock option plan. Actual base salary may vary based upon, but is not limited to, skills and qualifications, internal equity, performance, and geographic location.ย 

Nexamp's People team manages all aspects of recruitment and hiring within our organization. We want to inform third-party recruiters, staffing firms, and related agencies that Nexamp does not accept unsolicited resumes. Resumes will only be considered from these entities if a signed agreement is in place and the People team explicitly authorizes external recruiting assistance for a specific position. Any unsolicited resumes received will be deemed the property of Nexamp. We want to emphasize that Nexamp is not liable for any fees associated with unsolicited resumes.ย