Lead Project Manager - Renewable Energy Projects

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Training opportunities

Innovative projects

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape seeks a Lead Project Manager to drive large-scale renewable energy projects (solar and wind) from feasibility through commissioning. You will lead cross-disciplinary teams, manage EPC contracts, and ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and on-time delivery.

The role requires a deg in engineering, 10+ years PM experience including renewables, and strong leadership. Travel within the Western Cape is expected; a master's or PMP/PRINCE2 is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical discipline.
• Master's degree or PMP/PRINCE2 certification highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in project management, with at least 5 years in renewable energy.
• Proven experience managing projects in George or broader Western Cape.
• Experience managing EPC contracts.
• Strong understanding of renewable energy technologies, grid connection requirements, and environmental impact assessments.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and financial modelling.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full project lifecycle for renewable energy installations, from feasibility studies to handover.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, including scope, scheduling, budgeting, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.
• Lead and mentor project teams, including engineers and environmental specialists.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, permits, and environmental standards.
• Manage relationships with landowners, regulators, and technology suppliers.
• Negotiate and manage EPC contracts, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Monitor progress and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare and present project status reports and financial updates to senior management.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in project execution.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Renewable energy

MS Project

Primavera

Contract management

Negotiation

Financial modelling

Education

Engineering degree

Masters or PMP/PRINCE2 desirable

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering force in the renewable energy sector, seeking an accomplished Lead Project Manager to spearhead their ambitious projects in the George , Western Cape area. This role is critical for driving the successful execution of solar and wind farm development initiatives. You will be responsible for the end-to-end management of complex projects, ensuring they meet stringent technical, environmental, and financial objectives. This is a unique chance to contribute to sustainable energy solutions and play a key role in the green transition within South Africa. The position requires a blend of technical understanding, strategic planning, and exceptional leadership capabilities to navigate the complexities of the renewable energy landscape in George .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the full project lifecycle for renewable energy installations, from feasibility studies and site selection to construction, commissioning, and handover.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, including scope definition, scheduling, budgeting, resource allocation, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Lead and mentor project teams, including engineers, environmental specialists, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and local regulations, permits, and environmental standards specific to the Western Cape .
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including landowners, community representatives, regulatory bodies, and technology suppliers.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers and service providers, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Implement robust monitoring and control systems to track project progress, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare and present comprehensive project status reports, financial updates, and risk assessments to senior management.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in project execution methodologies within the renewable energy field.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil), or a related technical discipline.
• A Master's degree or PMP/PRINCE2 certification is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in project management, with at least 5 years specifically in the renewable energy sector (solar, wind, etc.).
• Proven experience managing projects in the George or broader Western Cape region is a strong advantage.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) contracts.
• Strong understanding of renewable energy technologies, grid connection requirements, and environmental impact assessments.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and financial modelling.
• Ability to travel within the Western Cape as needed.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Annual bonus based on project performance and company success.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Professional development opportunities and training in cutting-edge renewable energy technologies.
• Exposure to innovative projects shaping South Africa's energy future.
• Work in the beautiful and growing region of George .