Graduate in Training: Project Development

Pele Energy Group; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading renewable energy company in South Africa is offering a Graduate Internship Programme (GIT) for recent graduates aiming to build a career in the renewable energy sector. The 24-month programme provides hands-on experience across key business functions, mentorship from senior professionals, and opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. Ideal candidates should have a relevant degree and strong analytical and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Completed (or in final year of) a BSc, BEng, or related Honours degree.
• Ability to understand geographical maps and environmental studies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Participate in strategic projects that align with company goals.
• Collaborate with department heads on strategic initiatives.
• Manage smaller projects and engage in cross-functional teams.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Education

BSc or BEng in Engineering or related Honours degree

BSc or BSc Hons in Environmental Sciences, Geography, or Geology

Job description

Overview

The GIT Programme is a 24-month development journey designed for recent graduates who are passionate about building a career in South Africa’s renewable energy sector. This immersive experience offers a structured, fast-paced learning environment across key business functions including.

Graduates will gain hands-on exposure to real projects, develop both technical and soft skills, and actively contribute to Pele’s strategic goals. Through mentorship, coaching, and collaboration with seasoned professionals, GITs will play a vital role in supporting departmental objectives and driving continuous improvement.

At Pele, we don’t just build energy infrastructure, but we build future leaders. The GIT Programme is your launchpad into a purpose-driven career where innovation, impact, and community upliftment are at the heart of everything we do.

Requirements

Strategic Learning and Development :

• Participate in a comprehensive learning and development program that is aligned with the company’s long-term vision and operational goals.
• Engage in high-impact projects with cross-departmental exposure, learning the strategic priorities and goals of the company while developing core competencies in business leadership, operations, and project management.
• Receive mentorship and coaching from senior leaders to accelerate personal and professional growth in preparation for future leadership roles within the company.

Business Strategy Execution :

• Collaborate closely with department heads to assist in the execution of strategic initiatives that align with the company’s overarching business objectives.
• Contribute to the development of strategic plans by analysing market trends, identifying growth opportunities, and suggesting ways to optimize operational processes.
• Apply analytical skills to assess key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide actionable insights to improve business outcomes.

Cross-Functional Engagement and Exposure :

• Rotate through key functions within the organization (e.g., Investment and Funding Group, Energy Operations, Project Development, Business Development and Asset Management) to build a comprehensive understanding of how the different teams collaborate to achieve the company’s mission.
• Contribute to strategic decision-making by understanding departmental interdependencies and identifying opportunities for synergy across teams.
• Engage in cross-functional projects that require collaboration with leaders and colleagues from different backgrounds to ensure alignment with the company’s vision and objectives.

Innovative Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement :

• Identify and propose innovative solutions for optimizing workflows, enhancing customer experiences, or improving efficiency across teams.
• Assist in implementing business process improvements to drive cost reduction, resource optimization, and enhance overall business performance.
• Collaborate with senior managers to support the deployment of new technologies, processes, and systems that contribute to the organization’s long-term strategic growth.

Leadership and Ownership :

• Take ownership of assigned projects and initiatives, ensuring high-quality execution within the established time frame and budget.
• Develop leadership skills by managing smaller initiatives, making decisions, and interacting with cross-functional teams, preparing for roles of increasing responsibility.
• Lead small teams or collaborate with peers on key business initiatives, demonstrating accountability and providing strategic direction where needed.

Data-Driven Reporting and Analysis :

• Use data analytics tools and business intelligence platforms to track, measure, and report on the effectiveness of business strategies, identifying areas of improvement.
• Regularly update senior leadership with performance metrics, insights from analysis, and recommend corrective actions to improve results.
• Document and communicate key learnings, challenges, and solutions to contribute to the company’s knowledge base and support continuous learning within the organization.

Relationship Building and Networking :

• Foster strong relationships with colleagues across different functions to create a collaborative and open work environment.
• Leverage networking opportunities within the company to understand different career paths, opportunities, and leadership styles.
• Participate in networking events, leadership training sessions, and collaborative platforms that will contribute to building your professional network within and outside the organization.

Long-Term Career Growth and Success :

• Demonstrate personal initiative and motivation to grow within the company’s ecosystem, contributing to both the short- and long-term success of the business.
• Actively participate in career development discussions and work closely with mentors to chart a clear path for career progression in alignment with the company’s leadership pipeline.
• After successfully completing the training program, transition into a full-time, permanent role in a department that matches your skill set, experience, and career aspirations.
• Maintain accurate records of training progress, project outcomes, and personal development achievements.
• Prepare reports for supervisors or managers summarizing key learning outcomes and contributions.
• To be considered for the GIT Programme, applicants must meet the following :
• Completed (or in final year of) a BSc, BEng, or related Honours degree in :
• Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Industrial)
• Computer Science

Skills :

• To be considered for the GIT Programme, applicants must meet the following :
• BSc and / or BSc Hons in Environmental Sciences, Geography, Geology
• Ability to understand geographical maps, environmental studies, and related documentation
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Preferred Skills (Optional) :
• Relevant internships or project experience.
• Basic knowledge of [industry-specific tools or software].
• Fluency in additional languages (if applicable).
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.

Personal Attributes :

• Motivated, self-starter with a willingness to learn.
• Adaptable to new challenges and environments.
• Strong time management and multitasking abilities.

Competencies :

Leadership Capabilities :

• Participative Leadership
• Planning & Organizing
• Monitoring & Measuring

Cognitive Capabilities :

• Analysis & Attention to detail
• Problem Solving
• Critical thinking

Interpersonal Capabilities :

• Assertive
• Methodical
• Drive & Action Oriented
• Flexibility
• Excellence & Quality Orientation