Renewable Energy Project Developer

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Renewable Energy Project Developer to identify, evaluate, and secure solar and wind opportunities in the Welkom area. The role encompasses site assessments, feasibility studies, permits, PPAs, and project financing, with a focus on delivering value across the full development lifecycle.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in renewable energy project development, strong project finance knowledge, and excellent negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (Engineering, Business, Environmental Science) is required.
• Strong track record in renewable energy project development (solar/wind) is essential.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and analysis tools; experience with PPAs and project finance is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess sites for new solar and wind projects, including feasibility studies.
• Develop relationships with landowners, authorities and stakeholders.
• Lead negotiation and execution of land leases, option agreements and contracts.
• Prepare project proposals, business cases and financial models.

Skills

Project development

Financial modelling

Negotiation

Stakeholder engagement

PPA understanding

Renewable energy market knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Environmental Science

Tools

Financial modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding renewable energy company, is looking for a motivated and results-oriented Renewable Energy Project Developer to join their team in Welkom, Free State . This role is central to identifying, evaluating, and securing new opportunities for solar and wind energy projects within the region. You will be responsible for the full lifecycle of project development, from initial site assessment and feasibility studies to securing permits, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and financing. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of renewable energy technologies, market dynamics, and project finance, coupled with excellent negotiation and business development skills. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the growth of clean energy infrastructure in Welkom and drive impactful projects within the Free State province. The hybrid work model allows for effective collaboration with the team while maintaining flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for new solar and wind energy projects, conducting feasibility studies and preliminary site evaluations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with landowners, local authorities, and community stakeholders.
• Lead the negotiation and execution of land leases, option agreements, and other relevant contracts.
• Prepare comprehensive project proposals, business cases, and financial models.
• Secure necessary permits, licenses, and regulatory approvals for project development.
• Negotiate and finalize Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with off-takers.
• Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, finance, legal) and external consultants throughout the development process.
• Stay informed about market trends, policy changes, and technological advancements in the renewable energy sector.
• Manage project development budgets and timelines effectively.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and growth initiatives of the company's renewable energy portfolio.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in renewable energy project development, preferably in solar or wind.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and bringing renewable energy projects to financial close.
• Strong understanding of project finance, PPAs and regulatory frameworks in South Africa.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and analysis software.
• Ability to conduct thorough site assessments and feasibility studies.
• Experience with permitting processes and stakeholder engagement.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Willingness to travel within the Free State region and occasionally beyond as required for project development activities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a lucrative performance-based bonus structure tied to project success. Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and generous annual leave. Employees will have the opportunity to work on exciting and impactful projects that contribute to a sustainable future in Welkom . The hybrid work arrangement provides a balance between collaborative office work and the flexibility of remote work. We offer professional development opportunities and encourage continuous learning in the dynamic field of renewable energy. Join a team that is passionate about making a difference in the Free State .