Director of Land Acquisition - Renewable Energy

Climate17 is helping an international renewable energy developer find a Director of Land Acquisition as it builds out its North American leadership team. This role will lead land acquisition across multiple states, manage external real estate firms and land agents, develop and implement strategic land acquisition plans, negotiate land agreements, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and permits to contribute to the company’s growth in the renewable energy sector.

The ideal candidate will have held previous roles leading land acquisition for renewable energy companies, bringing a successful track-record in utility-scale solar, storage and wind across the US.

The business is on an exciting trajectory. Experience across multiple ISO/RTOs and people management experience required. This position will be the first hire in the land team and the incumbent will be hands-on, growing a team out beneath them as the project pipeline increases.

Success in this position will require leadership skills, negotiation proficiency, and real estate expertise.

The Role

• Land identification and acquisition: Identifying potential project sites, evaluating land suitability for renewable energy development, and negotiating land lease agreements with landowners.
• Title research and due diligence: Conducting thorough title searches to verify land ownership, identify any encumbrances or legal issues, and mitigate potential risks associated with land acquisition.
• Permits and approvals: Working with legal and regulatory teams to navigate local, state, and federal permitting processes related to land use for renewable energy projects.
• Community engagement: Engaging with local communities and stakeholders to address concerns regarding land use and project development.
• Environmental assessments: Coordinating environmental studies and surveys on potential project sites to comply with regulations and mitigate environmental impacts.
• Contract management: Overseeing the legal aspects of land contracts, including lease agreements, option contracts, and easements.
• Team leadership: Developing a team of land acquisition specialists, legal professionals, and land use planners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in real estate, law, environmental science, or a related field.
• Professional Real Estate License preferred.
• 10 years experience in land acquisition and title management, multiple years within the renewable energy sector – Solar, Battery Energy Storage, and/or onshore wind.
• Strong understanding of real estate legal principles, including contract law, property rights, and easements.
• Proficiency in title research and analysis, including interpreting title commitments and curative actions.
• GIS & Land Analysis Tools: Working knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS) and land management software.
• Excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills to build relationships with landowners and stakeholders.
• Existing network of real estate companies and land brokers.
• Ability to manage complex projects with multiple deadlines and stakeholders.

Salary and benefits:

• Broad banding depending on experience, $175,000 guide.
• Strong bonus and benefits structure.
• Insurances, 401k and more.
• Remote working but must be US-based.

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose-led, international renewable energy & sustainability recruitment consulting firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition and market insight services to organizations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and those working towards the decarbonization of the energy sector.

Inclusive Application Process

Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability.If you require additional support, equipment, or resources to participate in the job application or interview process, please let us know.