Legal Counsel - Energy & Infrastructure Projects

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybride; ZAR 646 000 - 1 199 000; Temps partiel

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Legal Counsel on a contractual basis near Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, to advise on energy and infrastructure projects, including development, financing, construction and operation.

The role requires drafting and negotiating EPC, O&M, PPAs and financing docs, with strong project-finance and construction-law expertise, and regulatory insight (NERSA). Remote working flexibility is offered within SA.

Qualifications

• Admitted as attorney with minimum 7 years post-admission experience in energy and infrastructure projects.
• Experience drafting and negotiating EPC, O&M, PPAs and financing documents.
• Strong understanding of project finance, construction law and regulatory frameworks (NERSA).
• Renewable energy project experience is highly preferred.

Responsabilités

• Provide comprehensive legal advice across development, financing, construction and operation phases.
• Draft, review and negotiate project agreements including EPC, O&M and PPAs.
• Advise on regulatory compliance, permitting and environmental matters.
• Support project financing activities with lenders and financial institutions.
• Manage legal aspects of tenders and procurement for projects.
• Conduct due diligence on sites and counterparties.
• Assist in dispute resolution and claims management for project execution.
• Stay updated on energy sector policies and market trends in SA.

Connaissances

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Drafting contracts

Project finance

Formation

Admitted Attorney

High Court of SA

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Legal Counsel to join their team on a contractual basis, focusing on energy and infrastructure projects. This role, based in the vicinity of Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , will involve providing expert legal advice on the development, financing, construction, and operation of large-scale renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind farms. You will be responsible for drafting and negotiating complex project agreements, including EPC contracts, O&M agreements, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and financing documents. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of project finance, construction law, and regulatory frameworks within the energy sector. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that are shaping the future of energy in South Africa. You will collaborate with internal project teams, external counsel, and government stakeholders in the Nelspruit region. This contract position offers significant intellectual challenge and the chance to contribute to critical infrastructure development.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive legal advice on all phases of energy and infrastructure projects, from development to operation.
• Draft, review, and negotiate key project documentation, including EPC contracts, O&M agreements, PPAs, land leases, and financing agreements.
• Advise on regulatory compliance, permitting, and environmental matters related to project development.
• Support project financing activities, including liaising with lenders and financial institutions.
• Manage legal aspects of project tenders and procurement processes.
• Conduct legal due diligence on project sites and counter-parties.
• Assist in dispute resolution and claims management related to project execution.
• Stay updated on energy sector policies, regulations, and market trends in South Africa.
• Liaise effectively with internal stakeholders, external counsel, and government agencies in the Mpumalanga province.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 7 years post-admission experience, with a significant focus on energy and infrastructure project development and finance.
• Demonstrated experience in drafting and negotiating complex project agreements (EPC, O&M, PPAs).
• Strong understanding of project finance, construction law, and relevant regulatory frameworks (e.g., NERSA regulations).
• Experience with renewable energy projects is highly preferred.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and drafting skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a high-pressure environment.
• Strong commercial acumen and pragmatic approach to legal problem-solving.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a project team.

Benefits

This contract role offers a highly competitive daily or hourly rate, commensurate with experience and expertise in energy project law. The role is structured as a contractor position, providing flexibility. While the primary location is near Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , this role offers significant remote working flexibility, allowing candidates to work from various locations within South Africa. Opportunities to work on significant, impactful projects within the renewable energy sector are abundant. This is a chance to gain extensive experience in a rapidly growing and critical industry. The project duration is anticipated to be substantial, offering stable engagement for the right candidate. You will collaborate with a team of dedicated professionals committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions.