Project development recruitment for the energy sector
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Building the foundations of Australia’s clean energy future
At Enertia Talent, we know that every renewable energy or infrastructure project begins long before the first sod is turned. The project development stage is where ideas become viable, risks are mitigated, approvals are secured, and stakeholders are engaged. Success at this stage determines whether a project advances to delivery or stalls indefinitely.
Our Project Development recruitment practice is dedicated to connecting organisations with the professionals who make progress possible. From land acquisition specialists and environmental planners to community engagement leaders and project developers, we find the people who can bring vision into reality.
Whether you are an organisation seeking to assemble a high-performing development team or a candidate ready to contribute to the next wave of renewable projects, we provide the expertise, networks, and insight to ensure the right fit.
Why project development roles matter in energy and renewables
The global shift toward net zero is driving billions of dollars of investment into renewable energy and infrastructure. In Australia, Renewable Energy Zones (REZs), transmission and distribution network upgrades, and large-scale wind, solar, and storage projects are creating unprecedented demand for skilled development professionals.
The project development phase is where strategic ambition meets on-the-ground reality. Skilled professionals in this space are responsible for:
- Securing land access and tenure to enable future construction.
- Managing planning approvals and permitting in line with regulatory frameworks.
- Undertaking environmental and cultural assessments to ensure compliance and sustainability.
- Engaging with communities, landholders, and stakeholders to build trust and obtain social licence.
- Evaluating commercial feasibility through financial modelling and risk analysis.
- Designing early project concepts that can withstand scrutiny and attract investment.
- Navigating the grid connection process to secure capacity, meet technical requirements, and progress toward
project delivery.
Without the right development talent, even the most promising project can fail to advance. With the right team in place, projects move smoothly through approvals, gain investor confidence, and proceed to delivery.
At Enertia Talent, we specialise in providing the individuals who make that difference.
Our project development recruitment expertise
We recruit across the full lifecycle of project development, with expertise in placing professionals such as:
- Project Developers and Development Managers: leading early-stage project planning, feasibility, and approvals.
- Land Access and Property Specialists: securing agreements with landowners and negotiating tenure.
- Environmental and Planning Consultants: managing environmental impact assessments, planning approvals, and permitting.
- Community Engagement Managers: building trust and relationships with local communities and stakeholders.
- Regulatory and Policy Advisors: navigating state and federal frameworks to ensure compliance and approvals.
- Commercial Analysts and Financial Modellers: evaluating project feasibility and preparing investment cases.
- Health, Safety, and Risk Advisors (early phase): ensuring development concepts integrate safety and compliance.
Recent placements include:
- Land Manager – Renewables Developer
- Director, Connection Services – Transmission Infrastructure
- Portfolio Manager, Energy Suppliers – Transmission Infrastructure
- Senior Development Manager – Renewables Developer
- Technical Coordinator – Transmission Infrastructure
- Origination Manager – Renewables Developer
- Senior Property Officer – DNSP
These placements illustrate our capability to support technical, leadership, and operational requirements across the sector.
How we approach project development
We know that recruiting in project development is about more than ticking technical boxes. It is about finding people who can bring together competing interests, navigate complex approvals, and chart a path forward with confidence.
Discovery
We begin by understanding your project pipeline, development challenges, and organisational goals. This includes discussing regulatory environments, landholder considerations, and stakeholder expectations to define the profile of the professional you need.
Market mapping
Our consultants use a combination of industry intelligence, targeted search, and established networks within renewables and infrastructure. Because many development professionals are not actively applying for roles, our ability to identify and approach passive candidates is critical.
Engagement
We act as your brand ambassador, presenting your opportunity with authenticity and clarity. This ensures candidates are engaged not just by the role but by the chance to contribute to a project that aligns with their values and expertise.
Selection
Our assessment process evaluates technical capability, stakeholder management, and cultural alignment. We conduct behavioural interviews, reference checks, and where appropriate psychometric testing to ensure candidates are resilient, adaptable, and aligned with your project vision.
Partnership
Project development is a long journey, and so is our commitment. We provide clear communication throughout the process and continue to support both client and candidate well beyond placement, ensuring the relationship delivers results.
Our track record and case studies
Enertia Talent has been instrumental in sourcing development talent for some of Australia’s most significant renewable and infrastructure projects.
In our work with ACEREZ, the consortium responsible for the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (CWO REZ), we placed land managers, regulatory specialists, and project development professionals who enabled the organisation to progress through early mobilisation. These hires provided the expertise needed to secure approvals, establish frameworks, and prepare for operational readiness as a licensed Transmission Network Service Provider.
Across our wider client base, we have supported wind and solar developers, transmission businesses, and government-backed infrastructure programs. From engaging Land Access Specialists to appointing Community Engagement Managers, our placements have directly contributed to projects that will power Australia’s transition to clean energy.
Why partner with Enertia Talent?
Clients choose Enertia Talent for project development recruitment because we provide:
Specialist sector knowledge: We understand the unique requirements of project development in energy and renewables.
Deep candidate networks: Our consultants are exceptionally well connected across planning, land, environmental, and stakeholder disciplines.
Speed and accuracy: Our tools and networks allow us to deliver the right candidates quickly, saving time in critical early project phases.
Commitment to cultural alignment: We consider how a candidate’s values and approach will fit with both your organisation and your stakeholders.
Post-placement care: Our relationship does not end at the appointment. We continue to support onboarding and integration to ensure success.
Trusted brand representation:
We present your organisation authentically, ensuring candidates see your role as both credible and compelling.
For candidates considering their next role in project development
We understand that changing roles is a significant decision. Discretion, trust, and long-term career advice are essential.
If you are a professional in land management, planning, environmental approvals, stakeholder engagement, or development management, the energy transition is creating more opportunities than ever before.
At Enertia Talent, we work confidentially with candidates to connect them to projects that matter. We provide insights into market opportunities, offer advice on positioning your skills, and guide you through the recruitment process.
We recognise that project development professionals often care deeply about the communities and environments in which they work. That is why we focus on aligning you with organisations where your expertise and values can have a real impact.
FAQs
Find answers to your questions about timesheet submission and payment schedules.
What types of project development roles do you recruit?
We recruit across land access, planning, environmental, stakeholder engagement, regulatory, commercial analysis, and project development management.
Which industries and subsectors do you cover?
Our focus is on renewable energy, transmission, distribution, and related infrastructure projects. We also support government and private sector programs driving Australia’s clean energy transition.
How long does recruitment take?
Most project development roles can be filled within 4 to 8 weeks, depending on complexity and availability of talent. For senior or niche roles, timelines may extend, but we set clear expectations at the outset.
Do you recruit for both permanent and contract roles?
Yes. We place professionals in permanent, fixed-term contract, and interim roles depending on project needs.
How do you support candidates during transition?
We provide regular communication, onboarding support, and ongoing check-ins to ensure candidates integrate successfully and deliver value quickly.
Still have questions?
We're here to assist you further. Reach out to the Enertia Talent team today..
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