Lead Solar Project Developer

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full remote work

Home office setup

Health insurance

Generous vacation

Bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Solar Project Developer to spearhead the identification, acquisition, and development of solar projects globally from a home office. You will own the full lifecycle from site assessment to offtake agreements, working with internal teams and external partners in a remote setting.

The role requires a senior professional with the ability to manage stakeholders, navigate permitting and finance, and deliver projects to financial close across markets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in solar project development.
• Proven track record of bringing solar projects to financial close.
• Knowledge of solar technology, project finance, power markets, and regulatory environments.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate sites for utility-scale and distributed solar projects.
• Manage end-to-end project development including permitting and interconnection.
• Negotiate and secure PPAs, land leases, and EPC contracts.
• Build relationships with landowners, authorities, utilities and stakeholders.
• Develop plans, budgets, timelines, and manage project risks.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Solar Project Developer to spearhead the identification, acquisition, and development of solar energy projects across various markets. This is a senior, remote-based position where you will take ownership of the entire project lifecycle, from initial site assessment and permitting to securing offtake agreements and managing stakeholder relationships. You will be instrumental in expanding our client's solar portfolio, working autonomously and collaborating with internal and external teams through digital platforms. This role is ideal for a motivated professional passionate about driving the growth of solar energy and contributing to a sustainable future, all from the convenience of their home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential sites for utility-scale and distributed solar projects, including due diligence and feasibility studies.
• Manage the end-to-end solar project development process, including permitting, zoning, interconnection, and environmental reviews.
• Negotiate and secure key project agreements, such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), land leases, and EPC contracts.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landowners, local authorities, utilities, and other project stakeholders.
• Develop detailed project plans, budgets, and timelines, and manage project risks effectively to ensure successful execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in solar project development or a similar role in the renewable energy industry.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and bringing solar projects to financial close.
• In-depth knowledge of solar technology , project finance, power markets, and regulatory environments.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with experience managing remote teams and stakeholders.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and significant bonus potential tied to project success.
• Full remote work flexibility with provided home office setup and support.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous vacation policy and opportunities for continued professional growth.
• Be at the forefront of the solar energy revolution with a dedicated and forward-thinking company.