Senior Counsel Project Finance & Commercial

Energy Vault·Remote(Westlake Village, CA)
Finance
Excel

WFA Digital Insight

As the demand for renewable energy specialists grows by 25% annually, companies like Energy Vault are at the forefront of this shift. With a strong need for skilled project finance professionals, this role stands out for its complexity and impact. Candidates should be aware that the current market requires a deep understanding of project finance, commercial law, and excellent problem-solving skills. Energy Vault's commitment to innovation and sustainability makes this an attractive opportunity for those passionate about making a difference. Before applying, candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their expertise in managing multiple transactions and navigating intricate legal structures.

Job Description

About the Role

The Senior Counsel Project Finance & Commercial role at Energy Vault is a high-profile position that requires substantial project finance experience to lead the financing of renewable energy, battery storage, and data center infrastructure projects. This role is pivotal in supporting the company's mission to deliver reliable, flexible power that supports the evolving needs of modern grids, communities, and large energy users. As a Senior Counsel, you will be part of a dynamic team that values innovation, commitment, and authenticity.

Day-to-day, you will manage multiple live transactions simultaneously, operate with a high degree of independence, and engage commercially with lenders, investors, and internal business teams. Your ability to communicate clearly, keep all deals on track, and solve problems pragmatically will be essential in this fast-paced environment. The role reports to the legal team and will work closely with various stakeholders across the organization.

Given the global nature of Energy Vault's operations, with headquarters in Westlake Village, California, and Lugano, Switzerland, and regional development across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, this role offers a unique opportunity to engage in international project finance and commercial law.

What You Will Do

  • Lead end-to-end legal structuring and negotiation of project finance transactions, including construction loans, term debt, tax equity, back-leverage facilities, and permanent financing for battery storage, renewable energy, and data center projects.
  • Draft and negotiate credit agreements, security packages, depositary and accounts agreements, consent and assignment agreements, and all related financing documents with lenders, tax equity investors, and institutional counterparties.
  • Advise on financing structures for build-own-operate (BOO) assets, including collateral structures, security interests, and intercreditor arrangements.
  • Manage lender due diligence processes and coordinate with lenders' counsel through financial close.
  • Advise on IRA tax credit structures, including investment tax credits (ITC) and production tax credits (PTC), domestic content requirements, energy communities, and Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) compliance as it relates to financing eligibility and tax credit qualification.
  • Support refinancings, amendments, waivers, and ongoing lender compliance matters post-close.
  • Simultaneously manage multiple transactions at varying stages of execution without loss of quality or attention to detail.
  • Provide commercial support, including familiarity with EPC contracts, equipment procurement agreements, PPAs, and interconnection agreements.

What We Are Looking For

  • Substantial project finance experience, preferably in a legal or financial institution.
  • Strong understanding of commercial law, particularly in the context of project finance and energy infrastructure.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to manage complex legal structures.
  • Experience in managing multiple transactions and prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage with various stakeholders.
  • Proficiency in Excel and experience with financial modeling.
  • A law degree from a reputable institution and admission to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction.
  • At least 5 years of experience in a similar role, preferably in the energy or infrastructure sector.

Nice to Have

  • Experience with data center infrastructure projects and financing.
  • Knowledge of tax equity structures and renewable energy financing.
  • Familiarity with international project finance and commercial law.
  • Certification in project finance or a related field.

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to work with a global energy storage and power infrastructure company.
  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
  • Professional development and growth opportunities.
  • Flexible working arrangements, including remote work options.
  • Access to cutting-edge technologies and innovative projects.

How to Stand Out

  • Ensure you have a strong understanding of project finance principles and commercial law before applying.
  • Highlight your experience in managing multiple transactions and navigating complex legal structures in your application.
  • Be prepared to discuss your problem-solving skills and how you handle pressure in a fast-paced environment during the interview.
  • Familiarize yourself with Energy Vault's mission, values, and current projects to demonstrate your interest and knowledge.
  • Prepare examples of your negotiation and communication skills, particularly in engaging with various stakeholders.
  • Consider creating a portfolio or examples of your work in project finance and commercial law to stand out as a candidate.

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