Development Engineer

POSITION PURPOSE

We are seeking a motivated and dynamic Development Engineer to join our team and play a pivotal role in supporting business development and finance during the initial feasibility stages of RNG projects. Reporting to the Director – Research, Development & Deployment (RD&D), Development Engineer will be responsible for conducting technical assessments, analyzing project feasibility, producing risk analysis, and presenting risk matrices to top management to inform strategic decision-making.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct technical assessments:
  • Evaluate the technical feasibility of RNG projects, considering factors such as feedstock availability, site suitability, and technology requirements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather relevant data and information necessary for project evaluation.
  • Utilize engineering principles and expertise to identify potential challenges and opportunities during the development phase.
• Analyze project feasibility:
  • Assess the economic viability of RNG projects through cost-benefit analysis, financial modeling, and risk assessment.
  • Work closely with finance teams to develop financial projections, budgets, and investment analyses.
  • Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure project success and monitor progress over time.
• Produce risk analysis and matrix:
  • Conduct comprehensive risk assessments for RNG projects, identifying potential risks and uncertainties associated with technical, financial, regulatory, and environmental factors.
  • Develop risk matrices to quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate the likelihood and impact of identified risks on project objectives.
  • Present risk analysis and matrices to top management, providing insights and recommendations for risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
• Support business development efforts:
  • Engage with prospective clients, partners, and stakeholders to understand their needs and requirements.
  • Collaborate with business development teams to prepare proposals, presentations, and other materials for client meetings and negotiations.
  • Provide technical expertise and support during contract negotiations and project agreements.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement:
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory developments related to RNG and renewable energy.
  • Identify opportunities for process optimization, efficiency improvements, and cost reduction across project development activities.
  • Contribute to the development of best practices, standards, and guidelines to enhance project execution and outcomes.
• Manage permitting processes:
  • Coordinate with regulatory agencies, stakeholders, and legal teams to navigate permitting requirements for RNG projects.
  • Prepare and submit permit applications, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, zoning ordinances, and other statutory requirements.
  • Monitor permitting timelines and address any issues or challenges that may arise during the permitting process.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

Performance will be assessed six months after initial hire and then annually. The role will be measured against California Bioenergy, LLC activities and metrics including costs and cost effectiveness, process, process efficiency and productivity, timeliness in delivery of services, customer satisfaction of stakeholders and clients, and other areas of review.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, renewable energy, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in project development, engineering, or technical consulting within the renewable energy sector, with a focus on RNG or biogas projects.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in financial modeling, cost estimation, and risk assessment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements, permitting processes, and environmental considerations associated with RNG project development is desirable.
• Proficiency in relevant software tools and platforms, such as Microsoft Excel, AutoCAD, GIS, and project management software.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Office and Field worker

Work locations routinely take place indoors, under controlled conditions and may include walking, sitting, or standing at a desk, and using office equipment including but not limited to computers, printers, and phones. This role will be required to travel independently to the company’s California offices (Dallas, Costa Mesa, Visalia, Bakersfield) and to our bioenergy projects located on dairy farms and agricultural properties to interview, gather information and learn first-hand how projects operate. The Development Engineer may lift items up to twenty-five pounds during the normal course of business. Some travel to field locations may occur where the Development Engineer may be required to wear protective equipment.