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Solar Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

RWE

Sr Manager, Utility Scale Development

Chicago, IL

$14K - $212K/yr

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

RWE

Sr Manager, Utility Scale Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14K - $212K/yr

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

Invenergy LLC

Associate, Insurance

Chicago, IL

... gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing ... Support Invenergy insurance team in coordinating insurance efforts from development through to ...

Invenergy

Associate, Insurance

Chicago, IL

... gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing ... Support Invenergy insurance team in coordinating insurance efforts from development through to ...

Invenergy

Associate, Insurance

Chicago, IL · On-site

... gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing ... Support Invenergy insurance team in coordinating insurance efforts from development through to ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSolar Development Associate JobsSolar Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Solar Development Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$55K

$83.4K

How much do solar development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar development associate in Chicago, IL is $55,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $61,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Solar Development Associates?

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 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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Solar Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Solar Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Development Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,028 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Senior Associate, Renewable Development

Senior Associate, Renewable Development

Invenergy

Chicago, IL

$98K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Invenergy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.

This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.

Job Description

Position Overview

As a Senior Associate, Development you will be responsible for leading project initiatives required for utility-scale energy projects including wind, solar, storage, natural gas, and transmission. These responsibilities include land acquisition and diligence, project management, permitting and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead development of individual solar, storage, and/or wind projects in the United States.

  • Identify development prospects, including fatal flaw identification and initial site reconnaissance.

  • Secure site control for development prospects, including negotiating leases, easements and other agreements with landowners. Work with internal and external SMEs to reduce real estate risk.

  • Support generation interconnection activities.

  • Interface with government officials, neighbors, and the public to establish positive relationships and effectively communicate project objectives, benefits, and details.

  • Secure project permits, tax abatements and other discretionary approvals.

  • Coordinate internal and external support from legal, engineering, environmental, interconnection, and construction teams.

  • Contribute to financial models and schedule.

  • Represent Invenergy LLC with customers, landowners, state and local officials and other stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • A BS or BA from an accredited college program.

  • 3-5 years' work experience in the renewable and clean energy industry.

  • Willingness to travel up to 25-50%

  • Valid Driver's license

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Engineering or business degrees preferred.

  • Familiarity with energy project development, real estate development, transmission and power project engineering are advantageous.

  • Interest in wind development

  • A strong understanding of the development process of clean and renewable energy projects.

  • Strong organizational, networking, leadership, time management, and accounting skills.

  • Strong public speaking and personal skills.

  • Ability to write effective, concise reports.

Base Pay

$98,000.00 - $125,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 20% - 30%

The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.

Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.

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