Lead Solar Project Developer

Placements24; Waukee (IA); On-site; USD 73,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and incentive plan

Medical coverage

Retirement fund contribution

Professional growth and training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Solar Project Developer to drive large-scale solar initiatives from site acquisition through permitting, financial modeling, and stakeholder engagement in Paarl, Western Cape.

You will lead cross-functional teams, navigate local regulations, and secure project finance while shaping the region's renewable energy transition. This is a senior, strategic role with strong leadership expectations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or related field required.
• Minimum of 8 years of proven experience in renewable energy project development, with a significant focus on solar PV.
• Demonstrated success in originating, developing, and closing solar projects in the South African market.
• In-depth knowledge of solar technology, site assessment, and project finance.
• Strong understanding of South African energy regulations, permitting processes, and grid connection requirements.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for solar power development, considering technical, environmental, and economic factors.
• Conduct detailed market research and financial analysis to evaluate project feasibility and profitability.
• Develop and execute comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Lead the negotiation and execution of land leases, PPAs, and other crucial contracts.
• Manage the permitting and regulatory approval process, ensuring compliance with all local and national requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landowners, local communities, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to ensure seamless project development and execution.
• Secure project financing through engagement with financial institutions and investors.
• Prepare compelling project proposals and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor project progress and proactively address any challenges or risks that may arise.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or related field

Master's degree (advantage)

Job description

About the Role Our client, a pioneering force in sustainable energy solutions, is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Lead Solar Project Developer to spearhead new initiatives in Paarl, Western Cape. This senior position involves identifying, evaluating, and securing opportunities for large-scale solar power projects. You will be responsible for managing the entire project lifecycle, from initial site acquisition and permitting to financial modeling and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with extensive experience in solar project development, a strong understanding of South African energy policy, and a passion for driving the clean energy transition. This role is critical to expanding our client's footprint and delivering impactful solar solutions across the region.

We are looking for a proactive leader who can navigate complex challenges and deliver successful outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for solar power development, considering technical, environmental, and economic factors.
• Conduct detailed market research and financial analysis to evaluate project feasibility and profitability.
• Develop and execute comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Lead the negotiation and execution of land leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and other crucial contracts.
• Manage the permitting and regulatory approval process, ensuring compliance with all local and national requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landowners, local communities, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to ensure seamless project development and execution.
• Secure project financing through engagement with financial institutions and investors.
• Prepare compelling project proposals and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor project progress and proactively address any challenges or risks that may arise.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or a related field; Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of proven experience in renewable energy project development, with a significant focus on solar PV.
• Demonstrated success in originating, developing, and closing solar projects in the South African market.
• In-depth knowledge of solar technology, site assessment, and project finance.
• Strong understanding of South African energy regulations, permitting processes, and grid connection requirements.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and diverse teams in the Paarl, Western Cape area.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and project evaluation tools.
• Strong network within the South African energy industry is highly desirable.
• Willingness to travel within the Western Cape and other relevant regions as needed.

Benefits

• This role comes with a highly competitive salary and a generous performance-based incentive program.
• Our client provides comprehensive medical coverage, a substantial contribution to a retirement fund, and ample opportunities for professional growth and training in the burgeoning renewable energy sector.
• We cultivate a forward-thinking and collaborative work environment in Paarl, Western Cape, prioritizing employee development and work-life balance.

You'll be part of a team making a real difference in the transition to sustainable energy.