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Solar Project Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Solar Project Manager (C&I Solar | 1-10 MW Projects) 📍 Sacramento, CA | In-Office + Local Travel ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

SUMMARY The Renewable Project Engineer I provides technical engineering support to the renewable ... energy and solar projects, with responsibilities ranging from drafting and calculations to ...

We work alongside project developers, owners, and engineering & construction firms to support the design, optimization, and construction of huge solar projects around the world. Our team is a blend ...

Solution Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

You will own critical pieces of our early-stage project engineering and business development process and apply your knowledge of Planted's technology, the energy market, and solar development and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Solar Project Developer information

See California salary details

$46.4K

$105.7K

$187.5K

How much do solar project developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar 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 is a Solar Project Developer job?

A Solar Project Developer is responsible for overseeing the development of solar energy projects from inception to completion. This includes site selection, permitting, financing, and coordinating with stakeholders such as landowners, government agencies, and engineering teams. They ensure projects meet regulatory requirements, financial goals, and technical specifications. Strong project management, negotiation, and technical knowledge are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Solar Project Developer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Project Developer, you need a solid background in renewable energy, project management, and financial analysis, often supported by a degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard project modeling software, permitting systems, and certifications such as NABCEP are highly valuable. Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are vital for managing complex projects, ensuring regulatory compliance, and successfully coordinating with diverse stakeholders across the solar development process.

What are some common challenges faced by Solar Project Developers in their day-to-day work?

Solar Project Developers frequently navigate complex regulatory requirements, manage multiple project timelines, and coordinate with diverse stakeholders, including landowners, government agencies, and utility companies. Balancing the technical, financial, and legal aspects of each project requires strong organizational and multitasking abilities. Adaptability is key, as unexpected permitting delays or changes in policy can significantly impact project progress. Support from a collaborative team and access to industry resources helps overcome these challenges and ensures projects run smoothly from inception to completion.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Project Developer jobs in California? For Solar Project Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Project Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Project Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Solar Project Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Solar Project Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Solar Project Developer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,721 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Business Development Associate/Client Account Manager - Solar

Green Water & Power, LLC

Los Angeles, CA

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Company Overview: Established in California in 2013, Green Water and Power has rapidly grown to operate in over 25 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 10,000 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:

  • Conduct thorough site assessments and evaluate the feasibility of solar project development.
  • Collaborate with engineering and project teams to develop and present customized solar proposals.
  • Originate and close C&I solar projects by identifying and engaging potential customers, including commercial property owners, developers, and businesses.
  • Secure land for solar projects by identifying viable sites and negotiating lease agreements with landowners.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Comfortable with contacting new clients and developing new target markets.
  • Highly self-motivated and results driven.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel, approximately 30% to 50% as needed.
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, developing spreadsheets, proposals, presentations, and other documents.
  • Experience using Salesforce or other CRM platforms.
  • Current driver's license and successful pass of a background check and drug screening.

Preferred Requirements and Qualifications:

  • Proven experience with land acquisition, solar development, or selling O&M contracts.
  • Master's degree in business administration or equivalent education and experience.
  • Project management certification.

Benefits:

  • Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a rapidly expanding industry.
  • Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity.
  • Opportunity to make a significant impact on the transition to sustainable energy solutions.
  • Paid training.

Compensation:

  • This is a full-time salaried position with a salary range of $75,000-$100,000 annually.