How to apply for Utility-Scale Renewable Development Opportunistic

About Avantus

Avantus stands out as a leader in utility-scale solar and storage solutions, specifically focused on delivering affordable, zero-emission energy through innovative projects. Their integrated approach combines solar power generation with storage technology, positioning them at the forefront of the renewable energy transition. Working at Avantus offers the opportunity to contribute to tangible climate solutions while being part of a company that values innovation in project development.

About the role

This role involves greenfield development of utility-scale solar facilities from conception through permitting and financial close, requiring engagement with communities, regulators, and utilities across multiple jurisdictions. You'll be responsible for negotiating critical agreements including PPAs, tax abatements, and land use agreements while navigating complex interconnection and permitting processes. This position directly impacts Avantus's project pipeline and contributes to expanding their portfolio of zero-emission energy assets.

A typical day

A typical day might involve reviewing interconnection study results for a new project while simultaneously preparing permit applications for another project in a different jurisdiction. You could spend the morning negotiating PPA terms with a utility offtaker, then transition to community engagement meetings in the afternoon, followed by collaborating with the finance team on project feasibility analysis. The role requires constant context-switching between technical, regulatory, financial, and community-facing aspects of multiple concurrent developments.

Who Avantus is looking for

• Has 7-12 years of hands-on experience specifically in utility-scale renewable energy infrastructure development, not just general energy industry experience
• Possesses detailed understanding of the full project lifecycle from greenfield development through interconnection, permitting, and financial close
• Demonstrates proven ability to navigate complex regulatory environments across local, state, and federal jurisdictions simultaneously
• Has direct experience negotiating PPAs with utilities and other offtakers, plus tax abatements and land use agreements

Tips for this application

• Quantify your experience with specific utility-scale solar projects you've developed, including project size (MW), location, and your specific contributions to development milestones
• Highlight your knowledge of California-specific renewable energy regulations, interconnection processes with CAISO, and local permitting requirements in San Diego County
• Demonstrate your understanding of Avantus's integrated solar+storage approach by mentioning how you've handled storage components in previous projects
• Showcase your experience with community engagement strategies for solar projects, particularly in California communities
• Emphasize your ability to work across departments by providing examples of collaboration with finance teams during project feasibility analysis

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your specific experience with greenfield development of utility-scale solar projects in the 7-12 year range mentioned in requirements', 'Examples of successfully navigating complex permitting processes across multiple jurisdictions simultaneously', 'Direct experience negotiating PPAs and other critical agreements that impact project economics', "Understanding of how your development experience aligns with Avantus's focus on integrated solar and storage solutions"]

Research before applying

• Avantus's current project portfolio and development pipeline, particularly their California projects
• Their specific solar+storage technology approach and how it differs from competitors
• Recent news about Avantus's project developments, partnerships, or regulatory engagements
• California's specific renewable energy goals and how they impact utility-scale solar development

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Walk me through your experience with a specific utility-scale solar project from greenfield identification through to permitting approval
• How have you successfully negotiated tax abatements or other incentives for renewable energy projects?
• Describe your approach to community engagement for solar projects in California communities
• What's your experience with CAISO interconnection processes and timelines?
• How do you balance multiple projects across different jurisdictions and regulatory frameworks simultaneously?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Presenting general energy industry experience without specific utility-scale solar development examples
• Failing to demonstrate understanding of the full project lifecycle from greenfield to financial close
• Not showing awareness of California-specific regulatory and interconnection requirements