Assistant General Counsel, Development

Earthrise Energy seeks to power our world more responsibly, sustainably, and equitably than ever before. An independent power producer, Earthrise takes a holistic approach to the energy transition.  We leverage the existing transmission infrastructure of a portfolio of legacy fossil fuel generation plants to accelerate the deployment of renewable technologies. We acquire, develop, and operate power generation facilities that provide reliable electricity, support the decarbonizing grid, and meet the evolving needs of our customers and communities.    

Job Description

The Assistant General Counsel, Development will primarily support the Earthrise Energy development team in the acquisition of fee simple, leases, rights of way, and other property rights for our current ~900+ MW pipeline of solar + storage projects.  The role will also support permitting and zoning processes in connection with our overall development of renewable energy projects.  The Assistant General Counsel, Development will also contribute to overall enterprise development and company culture and will be involved periodically in additional projects.  

This position will report to the General Counsel. The successful candidate will have significant real estate experience, preferably with renewable energy projects and will interact with members of the Earthrise Energy executive management team on a frequent basis.  A candidate based in Illinois or another midwestern state is required.

Responsibilities 

• Act as an internal counsel to Earthrise’s Development team, providing advice on day-to-day matters relating to land acquisition and development.
• Negotiate, review, and prepare land rights agreements, including purchases, leases, easements, and crossing agreements or other title curatives.
• Advise on permitting and zoning matters, including road use agreements, state laws, and local ordinances specific to solar development.

Qualifications

• J.D., license to practice in Illinois or another midwestern state is required.
• 3 to 10 years of experience practicing law, with at least 3 years of private law firm experience.
• Substantial experience in real estate and real estate related matters is required.
• Experience with permitting, zoning, and state and local development laws, ordinances and regulations is preferred.
• Experience with the renewable industry, specifically solar, is preferred.

Characteristics and Competencies

• Desire to work in a fast-paced, start-up style environment
• Highly energetic and hardworking self-starter who must demonstrate an attention to detail
• Substantial level of intellectual curiosity and willingness to be held accountable.    
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work well with others in a highly collaborative team environment. 
• Honest, reliable, self-aware, low ego and conscientious. 
• Excellent organization and prioritization skills.