Lead Project Manager - Renewable Energy Development

Placements24; Richards Bay; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first environment

Flexible hours

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan with company-m

Professional development

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Project Manager to spearhead ambitious renewable energy projects. This remote role lets you contribute from anywhere in South Africa while guiding planning, execution, and delivery from feasibility through commissioning.

You will lead cross-functional teams, manage regulatory and stakeholder dynamics, and drive on-time, on-budget outcomes for solar, wind, and other sustainable sources. A strategic thinker with strong PM skills is needed.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive project management experience in renewable energy.
• PMP certification is required.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field; Master's preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end renewable energy projects (solar, wind, etc.).
• Develop project plans, budgets and schedules aligned with regulatory requirements.
• Oversee feasibility studies, site assessments and environmental analyses.
• Manage relationships with government bodies, communities, investors, and partners.
• Coordinate with EPC teams for seamless execution.
• Identify and mitigate technical, financial, and regulatory risks.
• Ensure safety, standards, and environmental policy compliance.
• Drive innovation and best practices in PM within renewables.
• Report progress, milestones and financials to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Remote work independence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree preferred

PMP Certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the renewable energy sector, is seeking an accomplished Lead Project Manager to spearhead ambitious new project developments. This role is entirely remote, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere within South Africa. You will be instrumental in driving the planning, execution, and delivery of large-scale renewable energy projects, from initial feasibility studies through to commissioning and handover. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on sustainable energy solutions while working with a passionate and dedicated team. We are committed to fostering a remote-first environment that empowers our employees, encourages innovation, and promotes a healthy work-life balance. Your leadership will be crucial in navigating complex regulatory landscapes, managing diverse stakeholder interests, and ensuring the successful realization of our green energy goals. This position demands a strategic thinker with exceptional project management skills and a deep understanding of the energy industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end project management of renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, and other sustainable sources.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, budgets, and schedules, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee feasibility studies, site assessments, and environmental impact analyses.
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including government bodies, local communities, investors, and technical partners.
• Coordinate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to ensure seamless project execution.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks, including technical, financial, and regulatory challenges.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies.
• Drive innovation and best practices in project management within the renewable energy sector.
• Report on project progress, milestones, and financial performance to senior management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive project management experience, with a significant focus on renewable energy projects (solar, wind).
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of renewable energy technologies, project development cycles, and financial modeling.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with project management software and tools.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex regulatory and permitting processes.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification is required.
• Must be comfortable and effective working in a fully remote, autonomous capacity.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Generous annual leave and paid holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in the renewable energy field.
• The chance to work on impactful projects contributing to a sustainable future.
• A fully remote work environment with flexible hours.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Travel opportunities for site visits and key meetings as needed.