As a Thermal Project Developer, you’ll be responsible for driving projects from early-stage feasibility through to commercial operation. You’ll lead site identification, permitting, stakeholder engagement, financial modeling, and contract negotiation, collaborating closely with internal engineering, finance, and legal teams.
This is a hands-on development role in a growing segment of the energy transition, offering autonomy, impact, and long-term career growth within a mission-driven organization.
Key Responsibilities
Lead end-to-end development of thermal energy projects — from concept through notice to proceed (NTP).
Conduct market and site analysis to identify new project opportunities.
Oversee feasibility assessments, permitting, interconnection studies, and environmental due diligence.
Build and maintain relationships with utilities, regulators, landowners, and community stakeholders.
Support financial modeling, project economics, and risk assessments.
Manage RFP responses, project proposals, and development budgets.
Coordinate internal and external partners, including engineers, consultants, and EPC contractors.
Work cross-functionally to secure offtake agreements, land rights, and development approvals.
Stay current on federal, state, and local policy affecting thermal and renewable project development.
Qualifications
Required:
5+ years of project development experience in energy or infrastructure (thermal, CHP, district energy, or renewable power).
Strong understanding of the project lifecycle from origination through commercial operation.
Proven ability to manage permitting, land acquisition, stakeholder relations, and project financials.
Excellent communication and negotiation skills; able to represent projects with government entities and community stakeholders.
Experience working in Wisconsin or the broader Midwest market preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, or a related field.
Preferred:
Experience with thermal, biomass, or combined heat and power (CHP) systems.
Familiarity with renewable fuels, industrial heat recovery, or district energy systems.
Knowledge of Wisconsin regulatory frameworks, utility structures, and energy policy.
Advanced degree or MBA is a plus.
Why This Role
Join a mission-driven company leading the clean energy transition.
Be part of a growing team focused on innovative thermal energy solutions.
Competitive base salary + annual bonus + comprehensive benefits.
Hybrid flexibility with Wisconsin-based project travel.
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At Spencer Ogden, we are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion throughout our recruitment process. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to making any necessary adjustments to ensure you can present your best self. If you require additional time for assessments, alternative application methods, or access to interview questions in advance, please let us know. We are open to any requests or suggestions and continually seek innovative ways to assess talent. As global recruitment experts in sustainability, natural resources and infrastructure we are working with our clients and candidates to create careers to power a sustainable future. Our priority is to ensure you feel supported, respected, and secure throughout your experience with us. #LifeAtSO