Sr. Director, Development

Company Overview:

Copia Power is an energy transition company committed to developing, constructing and owning large-scale infrastructure assets in the U.S. to accelerate decarbonization in all areas of our economy. Copia Power is actively developing more than 15 GW of solar and energy storage projects in the US. Copia Power is backed by Carlyle, one of the world’s largest global investment firms.

At Copia, we pride ourselves on a culture where sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We’re dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the environment, and we believe that achieving this goal requires not just hard work but also enjoying the journey. Our team thrives on connectivity, fostering strong relationships across all levels of the organization. We champion a healthy work-life balance and create an environment where having fun is a natural part of our day. Together, we combine passion and playfulness to drive progress and make a difference.

Job Description:

Copia is seeking an experienced Sr. Director, Development with 10+ years of experience the renewable energy space with exposure to land negotiations, real estate, engineering, permitting, interconnection and legal through construction commencement.  This role requires a versatile individual who possesses exceptional decision-making, communication, and influencing skills as well as the ability to collaborate well in a fast-paced, people-first company. The ideal candidate will have experience supporting large portfolio projects through the full project cycle from financing through construction.

The Sr. Director, Development will report directly to the EVP, Chief Development Officer, Power. The Sr. Director, Development will work closely with Copia’s development, engineering, energy markets, legal, and finance teams.

• Leading a team of subject matter experts to develop early and late-stage renewable energy projects, manage projects into the construction phase, and support the project through commissioning and project financing for handover to asset management and operations.
• Managing the development of a portfolio of projects: budgeting and finances, project timing and planning, risks assessment, and defining portfolio priorities based on development metrics and offtake potential.
• Coordinating with and managing interdisciplinary teams including land negotiations, real estate, engineering, permitting, interconnection and legal through construction commencement.
• Facilitating project discretionary permitting including permit strategy, tracking permit efforts, working with local AHJs, and obtaining all entitlements for the successful construction and operation of project facilities.
• Collaborating with an internal team and external consultants to site siting constraints, project design, technology options, resource assessments, and procurement strategies.

• Ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written correspondence.
• Highly driven with problem-solving abilities, integrity, and strong work ethic.
• Proactive mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to work effectively within a rapidly changing organization.
• Demonstrated collaborative partnerships with peers, management, and vendors.
• Resourcefulness and polite persistence.

• 10+ years professional experience in renewable energy project development (AZ experience required), including exposure to utilities, interconnection, permitting, contracting, and financing.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred in finance, engineering, environmental studies, renewable energy, project/construction management or similar discipline 
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite, project management software and a CRM system
• Exposure to land negotiations, real estate, engineering, permitting, interconnection, and legal through construction commencement
• Ability to work in the Phoenix, AZ office a minimum of 3 days per week.
• Ability to travel up to 30%

We are partnering with select search firms for this role and are not accepting inquiries or candidates from additional third-party agencies or recruiters.

Compensation:

At Copia, we carefully consider a wide range of factors when determining compensation, including your skills, qualifications, location, and experience. This role may also be eligible for equity, benefits, performance bonuses, and other perks. We encourage all interested candidates to apply.   

Our Benefits:  

We work hard to embrace diversity and inclusion and encourage everyone at Copia to bring their authentic selves to work every day. We offer flexible work hours and generous benefits to all of our employees that include:

- Medical, Dental & Vision coverage with no premiums

- Company contribution to 401(k) plans

- Annual bonus eligibility

- Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO)

- Paid company holidays

- Wellness and cell phone credits

- Life and AD&D Insurance

- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for community and support

- Opportunities for professional development to grow and thrive within the company

About Copia: Copia Power (“Copia”), is a wholly owned portfolio company of the global investment firm, The Carlyle Group. Copia’s platform is focused on developing, owning, and operating utility-scale sustainable infrastructure in the United States. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. For more information, visit www.copiapower.com. 

At Copia, we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally for employment & do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.