In-House Counsel - Energy & Infrastructure Projects

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first work environment

Competitive salary package

Professional development support

Home office stipend

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced In-House Counsel to support our client’s energy and infrastructure projects in South Africa. This remote-first role focuses on project development, financing, and robust contract negotiation across EPC, O&M, and PPAs.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years post-qualification experience, strong project finance and energy regulatory background, and the ability to work independently from Richards Bay or another remote SA location.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with minimum 8 years post-qualification experience in project finance or energy law.
• Proven ability to draft and negotiate complex EPC, O&M and PPA contracts.
• Strong regulatory and environmental law knowledge relevant to SA energy sector.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate EPC, O&M, and PPAs for large-scale energy projects.
• Provide legal guidance on project development, financing and implementation.
• Advise on regulatory compliance and manage disputes including arbitration.

Skills

Project finance experience

Contract drafting

Regulatory compliance

Dispute resolution

Remote work readiness

Education

Admitted Attorney, SA High Court

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the energy and infrastructure sector, is seeking a highly skilled and proactive In-House Counsel to join their dynamic and fully remote legal department. This role is critical for supporting the development, financing, and execution of large-scale energy projects across South Africa and potentially sub-Saharan Africa. You will provide comprehensive legal advice on contract drafting and negotiation (EPC, O&M, PPA agreements), regulatory compliance, risk management, and dispute resolution. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project finance, construction law, and energy-specific regulations. This is a unique opportunity to work on impactful projects that shape the future of energy and infrastructure, offering significant professional growth and autonomy within a remote-first working model. We are committed to providing a supportive virtual environment, enabling you to contribute effectively from anywhere. Your expertise will be vital in navigating the complexities of project development and ensuring the legal integrity of our ambitious ventures.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial contracts, including Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) agreements, Operation & Maintenance (O&M) agreements, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
• Provide legal counsel on all aspects of project development, financing, and implementation.
• Advise on regulatory compliance related to the energy sector, including environmental laws and permits.
• Conduct legal due diligence for new project opportunities.
• Manage and resolve project-related disputes, including litigation and arbitration.
• Advise on corporate structuring and governance for project entities.
• Liaise with external counsel, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Assess and mitigate legal risks associated with project development and operations.
• Stay informed about changes in energy policy, regulations, and market trends.
• Support the legal team in ad-hoc projects and initiatives related to corporate legal matters.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 8 years of post-qualification experience.
• Significant experience in project finance, infrastructure development, or energy law.
• Proven expertise in drafting and negotiating complex commercial contracts relevant to the energy sector.
• Strong understanding of relevant South African energy regulations and environmental laws.
• Experience with dispute resolution, including arbitration and litigation, is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work effectively from a remote location in or near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Proficiency in relevant legal software and remote collaboration tools.

Benefits

• Fully remote work arrangement, offering significant flexibility.
• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential profit-sharing.
• Contribution towards home office setup and technology.
• Opportunity to work on impactful and pioneering energy projects.
• Professional development opportunities and support for further education.
• Collaborative and innovative virtual work environment.
• Generous annual leave and paid time off.
• Wellness programs and employee assistance services.
• Direct impact on sustainable energy development in the region.