DEVELOPER & ASSOCIATE COUNSEL JOB DESCRIPTION
SUMMARY: The Developer and Associate Counsel is responsible for managing multiple projects from site control until NTP (Notice to Proceed) and ensuring all projects are ready for sale or construction. The Developer and Associate Counsel plays a vital role in the overall execution of solar farm development by identifying, pursuing, and obtaining all necessary municipal, State, and Federal permits and approvals through working collaboratively with both internal and external partners. Although much of the role will be developer-oriented, the Developer and Associate Counsel will also contribute to the various legal aspects of project development in his or her role as a licensed attorney. This is an office-based position in Rochester, NY that requires periodic evening travel to municipal board meetings across New York State.
POSITION: Developer and Associate Counsel
DEPARTMENT: Development
REPORTS TO: Director of Development
TERMS/HOURS: Full-time, M-F, 8:00AM-4:30PM. (May work outside of these hours)
CLASSIFICATION: Salaried/Exempt
Pay Range: $100,000-$150,000 (Pay information will vary depending upon relevant experience for the position)
WORK AUTHORIZATION: US Person (US Citizen or Permanent Resident)
COMPETENCIES:
- Good communication and interpersonal skills capable of maintaining strong relationships.
- Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Documentation management and ability to use project management tools.
- Attention to details under pressure.
- Time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for Norbut Solar in all capacities related to project approvals, including meetings, submittals, calls, and follow-ups with municipalities, IDAs, State and Federal agencies, and other entities.
- Research and review local, State, and Federal laws and programs to ensure regulatory applicability and compliance.
- Attend municipal board meetings and provide meeting support as needed.
- Coordinate with third-party vendors as needed and apply for and secure favorable outcomes for all project approvals being sought including with respect to SEQRA Reviews, Interpretations. Special Use Permits, Site Plan and Subdivision Approvals, Variances, and Rezonings.
- Secure PILOT Agreements (and Host Community Agreements as required) and other development related ancillary agreements.
- Monitor State and Federal incentive programs, including with respect to NYSERDA and Federal grants and credits and assist with ensuring all available funding is pursued and secured efficiently.
- Track and ensure compliance with all post-approval filings and compliance requirements.
- Select and Award contracts for Civil, Environmental, Survey, Electrical, etc. engineering.
- Collaborate with EPC team on project timelines and schedules.
- Maintain positive partnerships with contractors and key stakeholders.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EDUCATION:
- New York State Law License.
- Juris Doctorate.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Valid NYS Driver’s License.
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE:
- At least five years of environmental and land use legal experience required.
- Experience with renewable energy permitting preferred.
SUPERVISORY FUNCTIONS:
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Clean, safe office environment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Regularly required to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods during the day.
- Regularly use hand to reach; ability to talk and hear.
- Regularly lift and/or move up to 15 pounds and frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
