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Solar Project Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Position Overview As a Manager, Development, you will manage the development of data center ... Familiarity with solar project development, real estate development, transmission and power project ...

Development Project Manager is all about the details: tasks, resources, deadlines, accuracy, and coordination between different process participants. Responsibilities: * Interact with account ...

The candidate may also be involved in SOW development, proposal preparation, and report delivery to ... Project manage systems audits, inspections, and commissioning to meet project schedule and budget

The Utility Scale Development Manager will play a key role in delivering renewable energy projects ... Develop utility-scale Solar, Wind and Energy Storage projects, from greenfielding to start of ...

The Utility Scale Development Manager will play a key role in delivering renewable energy projects ... Develop utility-scale Solar, Wind and Energy Storage projects, from greenfielding to start of ...

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Solar Project Development Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.3K

$97.4K

$146.3K

How much do solar project development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar project development manager in Chicago, IL is $97,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $111,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Solar Project Development Manager do?

A Solar Project Development Manager oversees the planning, development, and execution of solar energy projects from inception to completion. Their responsibilities include site selection, permitting, securing financing, managing stakeholder relationships, and coordinating with engineering and construction teams. They ensure projects comply with regulatory requirements, stay within budget, and meet deadlines. This role requires strong project management skills and a deep understanding of the solar energy industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Solar Project Development Managers during the permitting and approval process?

Solar Project Development Managers often encounter challenges navigating complex permitting and regulatory requirements, which can vary significantly by region. Coordinating with local authorities, addressing environmental impact concerns, and ensuring compliance with zoning laws can lead to project delays. Proactively building relationships with stakeholders and staying up-to-date with evolving regulations are crucial for success in this role. Effective communication and negotiation skills help streamline approvals and keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Solar Project Development Manager vs Solar Project Engineer?

AspectSolar Project Development ManagerSolar Project Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, renewable energy, or related fields; project management certifications are commonUsually holds an engineering degree; may have specific technical certifications in solar or electrical engineering
Work EnvironmentFocuses on project planning, stakeholder coordination, and overseeing development phasesEngages in technical design, system analysis, and engineering implementation
Industry UsageUsed in project planning, development, and management within solar companies and EPC firmsFound in technical design, system integration, and engineering teams in solar projects

The Solar Project Development Manager primarily handles project planning, stakeholder coordination, and overall development, while the Solar Project Engineer focuses on technical design and engineering aspects. Both roles require relevant technical credentials and work closely within the solar project lifecycle, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Solar Project Development Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Project Development Manager, you need expertise in renewable energy project management, financial analysis, site assessment, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), GIS tools, permitting systems, and knowledge of energy market regulations is highly valuable. Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully guiding complex solar projects from inception to completion, ensuring regulatory adherence, profitability, and stakeholder satisfaction.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Solar Project Development Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Solar Project Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Solar Project Development Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, and 92% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,391 per year, or $46.8 per hour.
Manager, Development (East Region)

Manager, Development (East Region)

Invenergy LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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

About the Team

Invenergy's Renewable Development team is responsible for generating new wind, solar, and storage opportunities for the company by identifying potential projects and advancing them through the development process. This includes site identification, permitting, resource measurement, establishing interconnection positions and community engagement.

Position Overview

As a Manager, Renewable Development, you will manage the development of utility-scale solar and wind energy projects throughout the United States. This position will be in our Chicago headquarters.

Curious what a day in the life of a developer looks like?

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Responsibilities

  • Manage wind and/or solar projects within the United States

  • Lead development activities in early, mid, and/or late stages of the project

  • Align projects with long-term company strategy and initiatives

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

  • Secure site control for development prospects, including negotiating leases, easements and other agreements with landowners.

  • Coordinate landowner communication efforts.

  • Take a lead role in obtaining certain local, state and/or federal permits

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

  • Initiate and manage generation interconnection activities.

  • Oversee project design.

  • Assist project budgeting and scheduling.

  • Manage tasks according to budgets and schedules, including coordinating internal and external technical support.

Minimum Qualifications

  • A BS or BA from an accredited college program.

  • 6+ years' work experience in the renewable and clean energy industry or relevant work experience.

  • A valid driver's license

  • Travel as needed, anticipated 25% of the time

  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's in Business or Engineer, Master's Degree or MBA is a plus

  • Ability to manage the development and strategic process for wind and/or solar energy projects.

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

  • Strong public speaking and personal skills.

  • Ability to write effective, concise reports.

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

  • Several years of experience in similar role preferred.

Base Pay

$120,000.00 - $160,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 25% - 40%

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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