Lead Solar Farm Operations Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement annuity

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Solar Farm Operations Manager to oversee multiple utility-scale solar assets in Limpopo, based in Polokwane. You will drive safe, efficient, and profitable operations, lead a technical team, and manage maintenance, performance monitoring, and stakeholder relations.

Ideal candidates have 8+ years in O&M of large PV plants, strong leadership, and deep understanding of PV technology, SCADA, and CMMS systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level or higher in electrical/mechanical/renewable energy fields.
• Minimum 8 years in O&M of large solar PV plants.
• Proven leadership or management of operations teams and assets.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational management of multiple solar plants for performance and energy yield.
• Develop and implement maintenance strategies (preventive, predictive, corrective).
• Lead site technicians, supervisors, and admin staff with a safety-first culture.
• Monitor performance via SCADA and other tools; resolve issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with HSE regulations and company policies.
• Manage contracts with service providers including maintenance and security.
• Prepare budgets, track expenses, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Coordinate with grid operators on scheduling and dispatch.
• Conduct regular site inspections and asset reviews for leadership.
• Prepare performance reports and asset management reviews.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

SCADA knowledge

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Renewable Energy degree

Master's degree or PMP (advantage)

Tools

CMMS

SCADA systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent developer and operator of utility-scale solar power projects, is seeking an experienced Lead Solar Farm Operations Manager to oversee their assets in the Limpopo province, with a base in Polokwane . This leadership role is responsible for ensuring the efficient, safe, and profitable operation of multiple solar farms. You will manage all aspects of day-to-day operations, including performance monitoring, maintenance coordination, site security, and stakeholder relations. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in operations management within the renewable energy sector, particularly solar PV, coupled with strong leadership and technical skills. This is a critical role in maximizing energy production and asset value for our client's significant investments.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the comprehensive operational management of multiple solar power plants, ensuring optimal performance and energy yield.
• Develop and implement robust maintenance strategies (preventive, corrective, predictive) for solar farm components (PV modules, inverters, transformers, trackers).
• Manage and lead a team of site technicians, supervisors, and administrative staff, fostering a culture of safety and performance.
• Monitor plant performance using SCADA systems and other monitoring tools, identifying and resolving issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.
• Manage contracts with third-party service providers, including maintenance contractors and security personnel.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, track expenses, and identify cost‑saving opportunities.
• Coordinate with grid operators and utility companies on operational matters, including scheduling and dispatch.
• Conduct regular site inspections and audits to ensure operational integrity and compliance.
• Prepare regular performance reports, operational analyses, and asset management reviews for senior leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or PMP certification is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in the operations and maintenance (O&M) of large-scale solar PV power plants.
• Proven experience in a leadership or management role, overseeing operational teams and assets.
• In-depth knowledge of solar PV technology, including module performance, inverter functionality, tracking systems, and grid connection requirements.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems, performance monitoring software, and CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).
• Strong understanding of HSE principles and practices in an industrial/energy environment.
• Excellent budgeting, financial management, and contract negotiation skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to travel frequently within the Limpopo province and occasionally to other regions.
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of local languages spoken in Limpopo is a plus.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary package and performance‑based annual bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement annuity, and life insurance benefits.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for site travels.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in solar asset management.
• A leadership position within a key player in South Africa's renewable energy expansion.
• Exposure to cutting‑edge solar technologies and operational best practices.
• A challenging yet rewarding work environment in the dynamic Polokwane region.