Lead Solar Project Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus

Medical aid and provident fund

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Solar Project Engineer in Cape Town to drive utility-scale and commercial PV projects from concept to commissioning. You will lead a team of engineers and site personnel, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to exacting standards.

This role requires deep solar PV expertise, strong project management, and the ability to tackle complex technical challenges while contributing to a growing renewable energy portfolio in the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering; Master's preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in solar PV project engineering and management.
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale solar projects from concept to completion.
• In-depth knowledge of solar PV technologies, system design principles, and grid integration.
• Proficiency with CAD software, PVSyst, and other relevant engineering tools.
• Strong project management methodologies and leadership, communication skills.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or equivalent accreditation desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design, engineering, and execution of solar PV projects, ensuring compliance with codes and standards in Western Cape.
• Mentor a team of project engineers, designers, and site personnel, promoting safety and quality.
• Develop project plans, schedules, budgets and track progress against milestones.
• Oversee procurement of major equipment (modules, inverters, mounting structures).
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for new and existing installations.
• Coordinate with clients, contractors, regulators, and utilities to progress projects.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Solar PV systems

CAD

PVSyst

Communication

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree advantageous

Professional accreditation (Pr Eng) desirable

Tools

CAD software

PVSyst

Engineering tools/PM tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the South African energy market, is looking for an accomplished Lead Solar Project Engineer to be based in Cape Town . This critical role will oversee the entire lifecycle of utility-scale and commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) projects, from initial conception through to construction and commissioning. You will be responsible for leading a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This position requires a deep technical understanding of solar PV systems, strong project management skills, and the ability to navigate complex technical challenges. The successful candidate will contribute to expanding our client's renewable energy portfolio and reinforcing their commitment to sustainable power generation in the Western Cape and beyond. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned engineer to take on significant responsibility and drive impactful projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design, engineering, and execution of solar PV projects, ensuring compliance with all relevant codes, standards, and regulations in Western Cape .
• Manage and mentor a team of project engineers, designers, and site personnel, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Develop detailed project plans, schedules, and budgets, and track progress against these milestones.
• Oversee the selection and procurement of major equipment, including PV modules, inverters, and mounting structures.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and performance analyses for new and existing solar installations.
• Liaise with stakeholders, including clients, contractors, regulatory bodies, and utility companies, to ensure smooth project progression.
• Troubleshoot technical issues that arise during the design, construction, and operation phases of solar projects.
• Ensure all projects meet performance specifications and environmental requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in solar PV project engineering and management.
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale solar projects from concept to completion.
• In-depth knowledge of solar PV technologies, system design principles, and grid integration.
• Proficiency with CAD software, PVSyst, and other relevant engineering tools.
• Strong understanding of project management methodologies and tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively under pressure.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or equivalent professional accreditation is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, a performance-based bonus scheme, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a provident fund, and ample paid time off. Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and career progression within a leading renewable energy company are standard. The role is based in the vibrant city of Cape Town , offering a dynamic work environment and the chance to be part of a company shaping the future of energy.