Renewable Land Agent / Landman - Solar & BESS – (Field-Based) in Chicago, Illinois at Purple Land Management

We are seeking experienced Renewable Land Agents / Landmen to act as the primary field representatives for site acquisition and land outreach supporting utility-scale solar projects and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Operating across Western PJM and MISO-South territories, you will manage site control acquisition across assigned Areas of Interest (AOIs) within specific utility footprints.

• Chicago, IL / Grand Rapids, MI and surrounding areas (ComEd & AEP Territories)

• Fort Wayne, IN / Dayton, OH and surrounding areas (AEP & Western Ohio Territories)

• Baton Rouge, LA and surrounding areas (MISO-South / Entergy TX Territory)

• Origination & Site Control: Lead targeted field outreach campaigns to identify and secure viable acreage via options to lease or options to purchase for utility-scale solar and BESS deployment.

• Contract Negotiation: Draft and negotiate complex option agreements, long-term leases, purchase options, and surface use/easement agreements with private landowners and agricultural corporations.

• Feasibility & Curative Work: Evaluate surface title risks, local zoning laws, environmental constraints, and utility infrastructure proximity; clear severe encumbrances to ensure project viability.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate directly with internal GIS, legal, and project development teams to meet rolling development milestones.

• Experience: Field landman experience with a proven history of closing large-acreage options and leases for utility solar or energy infrastructure.

• Market Knowledge: Deep familiarity with the specific regional power pool (PJM or MISO) and the corresponding regional utility frameworks (ComEd, AEP, or Entergy).

• Core Competencies: Advanced field negotiation tactics, contract drafting, surface title curative experience, and exceptional landowner relationship management.

• Logistics: Must reside in or be willing to work within the designated metropolitan hub and surrounding regional area, with daily travel to local field sites and county courthouses. Reliable transportation suitable for field travel is required.