Junior Project Developer

Senior Project Developer

Location: Gqeberha

Are you ready to play a key role in shaping the future of renewable energy in Sub-Saharan Africa? We have partnered with a leading independent power producer that develops, finances, builds, owns, and operates renewable energy generation facilities across the region. As they expand their footprint, they are seeking a Project Developer to join their team.

Your Role:

As a Project Developer, you will be at the forefront of securing the necessary land rights, authorizations, permits, and licenses to enable the legal development and operation of Wind, Solar PV, and BESS projects. Your expertise will be crucial in driving projects from inception to execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Identification & Evaluation: Identify and assess new renewable energy opportunities, conduct desktop risk analyses, evaluate potential land parcels, and negotiate land lease agreements.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Negotiations: Lead and facilitate negotiations to secure essential agreements, including land leases, servitudes, environmental impact assessments, regulatory approvals, and electrical connection contracts.
• Permitting & Compliance: Apply for and secure necessary permits, licenses, and authorizations while ensuring full compliance with local and national regulations.
• Financial Oversight: Manage internal development costs and external consultant fees in line with project budgets.
• Risk Mitigation & Strategy Development: Develop strategies to minimize project risks and ensure timely permitting and licensing approvals.
• Due Diligence & Project Coordination: Lead due diligence efforts, assess permitting requirements, and develop project timelines to ensure efficient financial closure.
• Regulatory & Procurement Participation: Support participation in Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programs (REIPPPP) and private offtaker RFPs, with a focus on land and environmental aspects.
• Financial Close & Compliance: Assist the Project Director during financial closing, addressing lender queries, and ensuring adherence to IFC Performance Standards.
• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong partnerships with consultants, advisors, regulatory bodies, landowners, and joint venture partners while keeping internal stakeholders informed.

What We’re Looking For:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, Commerce, or a related field (BTech, BSc, BCom preferred).
• 3 - 5 years of hands-on experience in renewable energy project development in South Africa.
• Proven track record in securing land rights, permits, and licenses for Wind, Solar PV, or BESS projects.
• Strong negotiation, stakeholder management, and regulatory compliance skills.
• Experience navigating REIPPPP and private energy procurement processes is a plus.