Director - Site Development

Thea Energy•Kearny, NJ

About The Position

Thea Energy is seeking an experienced, strategic, and highly motivated Director - Site Development to architect and lead the site selection, incentives, and development strategy for our first-of-a-kind fusion energy projects. In this role, you will define the technical and resource-based criteria for our future sites, lead negotiations for state and local incentive packages, and navigate complex regulatory and permitting frameworks. You will serve as the primary liaison to government bodies and local communities, building the foundational relationships and stakeholder trust required to bring commercial fusion online. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in capital-intensive infrastructure or deep-tech project development, excels in high-stakes negotiations, and thrives in a fast-paced, highly autonomous environment. Thea Energy’s dynamic team is made up of self-motivated individuals with an excitement for solving complex problems.

Requirements

10+ years of relevant work experience driving site selection, first of a kind construction project development, or government affairs within deep tech, energy, hardware, or aerospace.
Proven track record of successfully negotiating and securing complex state and local incentive packages or non-dilutive government funding.
Comfort interfacing with legal and regulatory frameworks; able to effectively partner with counsel to navigate zoning ordinances, term sheets, and incentive contracts.
Experience with complex and capital intensive infrastructure development cycles.
Highly structured and process-driven, with a speed and execution mindset and the ability to manage competing priorities across internal teams and external stakeholders.
Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills, particularly in public-facing or sensitive negotiation settings.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment.
Bachelor's degree or greater in a relevant technical, legal, or policy field.

Responsibilities

Define and manage technical and resource-based site selection criteria.
Identify, evaluate, and lead negotiations for state and local incentive packages, tax credits, and infrastructure grants.
Serve as the primary liaison with state and local governments to navigate regulatory frameworks and permitting processes.
Lead local stakeholder outreach to build community relationships and secure the local stakeholder trust required for a first-of-a-kind fusion energy project.
Proactively identify and manage risks related to land use, zoning, and environmental impact assessments.
Align the siting process with technical requirements and company stakeholders to ensure site readiness and compatibility.
Establish and maintain schedule and cost baselines for siting, incentives, land acquisition, and construction phases.