Application Guide

How to Apply for Development Manager - California

at Longroad Energy

๐Ÿข About Longroad Energy

Longroad Energy is a purpose-driven renewable energy developer with a robust 4.3 GW pipeline of wind, solar, and storage projects. As an independent company focused on long-term sustainability, they offer a collaborative culture and the chance to work on impactful utility-scale projects from inception to operation.

About This Role

This role is critical to expanding Longroad's California portfolio, leading projects from greenfield through commercial operation. You will navigate complex permitting, land, and interconnection processes while engaging communities and coordinating internal teams, directly shaping the state's clean energy future.

๐Ÿ’ก A Day in the Life

Your day might involve a morning call with a landowner to discuss an option agreement, followed by reviewing a CEQA consultant's draft EIR. After lunch, you could attend a community meeting regarding a solar project, then wrap up by coordinating with the interconnection team on a CAISO study timeline. The role blends desk work with field visits and stakeholder meetings.

๐ŸŽฏ Who Longroad Energy Is Looking For

  • A seasoned renewable energy developer with 5+ years of experience specifically in California, including hands-on work with CEC, CPUC, and local permitting.
  • Expert in managing land acquisition, environmental review (CEQA/NEPA), and interconnection processes (CAISO) with a track record of securing permits.
  • Excellent project manager who can juggle multiple milestones, budgets, and timelines while leading cross-functional teams and external consultants.
  • Strong communicator skilled in stakeholder engagement, from community meetings to negotiating with landowners and agency staff.

๐Ÿ“ Tips for Applying to Longroad Energy

1

Highlight specific California projects you've led, detailing permits secured, megawatts developed, and milestones achieved.

2

Quantify your experience with CEQA/NEPA, land acquisition, and CAISO interconnection, using concrete examples.

3

Tailor your resume to emphasize project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet) and stakeholder engagement.

4

Mention any existing relationships with California agencies (CEC, CPUC, county planning) or landowners.

5

In your cover letter, connect your experience to Longroad's mission and pipeline, showing you understand their project types.

โœ‰๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience with California renewable energy projects, including permitting and regulatory wins.', 'Proven ability to manage interdisciplinary teams and external stakeholders to advance complex projects.', "Understanding of Longroad's portfolio and how your skills can accelerate their California pipeline.", "Demonstrated passion for sustainability and alignment with the company's mission-driven culture."]

Generate Cover Letter โ†’

๐Ÿ” Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • โ†’ Study Longroad's current California projects (e.g., wind, solar, storage) and their status via their website and news.
  • โ†’ Review California's renewable energy policies (SB 100, IRP) to understand the market drivers.
  • โ†’ Familiarize yourself with the company's organizational structure and recent project announcements.
  • โ†’ Understand the competitive landscapeโ€”other developers active in California and Longroad's differentiators.

๐Ÿ’ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through a California project you developed from greenfield to CODโ€”what were key challenges and how did you overcome them?
2 How do you approach community engagement for a controversial wind or solar project?
3 Describe your experience with CEQA and how you've managed environmental impact reports.
4 How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects at different stages?
5 What is your experience with CAISO interconnection and what pitfalls should developers watch for?
Practice Interview Questions โ†’

โš ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus only on technical aspects; emphasize your ability to manage relationships and navigate politics.
  • Avoid vague statements about project managementโ€”be specific about your role and outcomes.
  • Don't overlook the importance of community engagement; show genuine interest in stakeholder communication.

๐Ÿ“… Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

โœ“

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Longroad Energy!