Project Development Manager (BESS)
Location: Berlin
I’m currently supporting a growing renewable energy platform that develops and delivers large-scale PV and battery energy storage projects (BESS) across Germany. As part of continued growth, they are looking to hire a Project Development Manager to take ownership of projects through the German permitting and planning process, leading them through to Ready-to-Build (RTB) status.
This is a delivery-focused role, suited to someone who enjoys taking responsibility, working closely with authorities and municipalities, and driving projects forward in a structured and pragmatic way.
The role:
As Project Development Manager, you will manage a portfolio of battery energy storage (and related renewable) projects and lead them through all permitting and planning phases. You will act as the central point of contact for authorities, municipalities, and external advisors, ensuring approvals are progressed efficiently and projects remain on track.
Key responsibilities:
* Independently manage a portfolio of BESS (and/or solar) projects from submission through to Ready-to-Build (RTB) status
* Lead and actively drive all relevant permitting processes, including building permits and planning procedures (e.g. §35 privileged projects, zoning or development plan processes where required)
* Serve as the main point of contact for municipalities, permitting authorities, and external planners, consultants, and experts
* Prepare, submit, and actively track all permitting documentation
* Respond to authority feedback, conditions, and requirements, ensuring timely and compliant implementation
* Track milestones, deadlines, risks, and dependencies across multiple parallel projects
* Identify permitting risks and bottlenecks early and develop pragmatic solutions
* Represent projects confidently in meetings with authorities and municipalities when required
What the client is looking for:
* Full ownership mentality for assigned projects, with a strong focus on delivery and implementation
* Independent, proactive working style with the ability to manage core project development topics without close supervision
* Strong stakeholder management skills and consistent follow-up with authorities and partners
* Ability to manage and prioritise multiple projects in parallel
* Clear, professional, and solution-oriented communication style
* Structured, resilient, and results-driven approach to work
* Confident external presence when representing projects with municipalities and authorities
Required qualifications:
* Minimum 2 years of professional experience in project development within renewable energy
* Practical experience navigating German permitting and approval processes
* Exposure to battery energy storage systems (BESS) and/or utility-scale solar projects
* Solid understanding of building permit procedures and working with authorities
* Ability to independently drive projects forward and maintain momentum
* Very good German language skills (written and spoken) for authority and municipal communication
Desirable experience:
* Direct experience with zoning, land-use, or development plan procedures
* End-to-end responsibility for projects through to Ready-to-Build status
* Regular interaction with municipalities, permitting authorities, and external stakeholders
* Demonstrated ability to streamline permitting processes and resolve bottlenecks efficiently
What’s on offer:
* Permanent role within a growing renewable energy platform
* High level of responsibility and project ownership
* Hybrid working model and flexible working arrangements
* Competitive salary package
* Long-term development opportunities within a future-oriented sector