Geothermal Energy Project Manager

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Retirement annuity

Hybrid working

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Geothermal Energy Project Manager to oversee full lifecycle geothermal developments in Rustenburg, North West. You will manage feasibility through handover, coordinate site surveys, drilling, and plant construction, ensuring EHS compliance and budget adherence.

You will lead cross-functional teams, manage contractors and stakeholders, and drive project efficiency while aligning with South African regulatory frameworks and investor reporting requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Geological, Mechanical, or Electrical preferred) or Earth Sciences.
• Master's degree or MBA is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in project management within the energy sector, with at least 5 years focused on geothermal projects.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale capital projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of geothermal resource assessment, drilling technologies, and power plant operations.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Excellent financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and contract management.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate diverse teams.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of South African regulatory frameworks relevant to the energy sector.

Responsibilities

• Full lifecycle project management for geothermal energy developments, from feasibility studies to operational handover.
• Develop detailed project plans, budgets, and schedules, and manage resource allocation effectively.
• Oversee site assessments, geological surveys, drilling operations, and reservoir engineering aspects.
• Manage the design, procurement, and construction of geothermal power plants and associated infrastructure.
• Ensure strict adherence to all environmental, health, and safety regulations and permits.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external contractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies proactively.
• Manage stakeholder communication and reporting to senior management and investors.
• Drive continuous improvement in project execution and operational efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Negotiation

Financial acumen

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Geological/Mechanical/Electrical) or Earth Sciences

Master's degree or MBA advantageous

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering company in sustainable energy solutions, is actively seeking a dynamic and experienced Geothermal Energy Project Manager to oversee significant development projects in Rustenburg, North West. This role is critical for the successful planning, execution, and delivery of geothermal energy initiatives, from exploration and drilling to plant construction and operation. You will be responsible for managing all phases of the project lifecycle, ensuring objectives are met on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, extensive knowledge of geothermal energy technologies, and a proven ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects in the energy sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Full lifecycle project management for geothermal energy developments, from feasibility studies to operational handover.
• Develop detailed project plans, budgets, and schedules, and manage resource allocation effectively.
• Oversee site assessments, geological surveys, drilling operations, and reservoir engineering aspects.
• Manage the design, procurement, and construction of geothermal power plants and associated infrastructure.
• Ensure strict adherence to all environmental, health, and safety regulations and permits.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external contractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies proactively.
• Manage stakeholder communication and reporting to senior management and investors.
• Drive continuous improvement in project execution and operational efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Geological, Mechanical, or Electrical preferred), Earth Sciences, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or MBA is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in project management within the energy sector, with at least 5 years specifically focused on geothermal projects.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale capital projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of geothermal resource assessment, drilling technologies, and power plant operations.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Excellent financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and contract management.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate diverse teams.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of South African regulatory frameworks relevant to the energy sector.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and a generous performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical insurance, life cover, and retirement annuity.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement in a growing renewable energy field.
• Exposure to innovative geothermal technologies and large-scale project development.
• The chance to contribute meaningfully to South Africa's energy transition in the Rustenburg area.
• Generous leave allowance and professional development support.
• Potential for flexible working arrangements on a hybrid basis.