Application Guide
How to Apply for Vice President, Project Development (IL)
at BlueWave
🏢 About BlueWave
BlueWave is revolutionizing the energy sector by making community solar accessible to homeowners and businesses, with a strong focus on innovative dual-use solar projects like agrivoltaics. Their commitment to sustainability and community impact makes them a leader in the clean energy transition.
About This Role
As VP of Project Development for Illinois and the broader Midwest, you will lead strategy, pipeline growth, and execution for solar and storage projects from early-stage through financing. This role is central to scaling BlueWave's impact in a key market, working cross-functionally with leadership and external stakeholders.
💡 A Day in the Life
Your day might start with a pipeline review meeting with your team to assess project milestones, followed by a call with a landowner or local official to discuss a new site. Afternoon could involve a cross-functional session with engineering and finance to advance a project toward financing, plus a strategy call with the SVP on market expansion.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who BlueWave Is Looking For
- Proven track record in leading utility-scale solar and storage development in the Midwest, particularly Illinois.
- Deep understanding of Illinois energy policy, including CEJA, and experience navigating local permitting and interconnection processes.
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing teams and cross-functional collaboration with engineering, finance, and policy departments.
- Experience with innovative project types like agrivoltaics or dual-use solar is a strong plus.
📝 Tips for Applying to BlueWave
Highlight specific Illinois solar projects you've led, including MW capacity and stage (origination, permitting, financing).
Quantify your impact: e.g., 'Grew pipeline from X to Y MW in Illinois' or 'Achieved Z% success rate in interconnection.'
Mention familiarity with Illinois-specific programs like Adjustable Block Program or Solar for All.
Tailor your resume to emphasize strategic leadership and cross-functional team management, not just technical skills.
Include examples of how you've navigated regulatory challenges or community engagement in the Midwest.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your passion for BlueWave's mission of accessible community solar and dual-use innovation.", 'Specific experience in Illinois/Midwest solar development, including policy and market strategy.', 'Your leadership style and how you drive cross-functional collaboration to deliver financeable projects.', 'Mention any experience with agrivoltaics or similar innovative solar applications.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review BlueWave's latest press releases on Illinois projects and agrivoltaics partnerships.
- → Understand the Illinois Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) and Adjustable Block Program details.
- → Look into BlueWave's company culture and values, especially their commitment to community impact.
- → Study competitive landscape: other developers active in Illinois (e.g., Invenergy, Cypress Creek).
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't focus only on technical details; emphasize strategic leadership and market strategy.
- Avoid generic responses about solar; be specific to Illinois and the Midwest.
- Don't neglect the dual-use/agrivoltaics angle; show you understand BlueWave's unique approach.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!