Project Manager

Smart4 Energy; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 750 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading sustainable energy partner based in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Project Manager to oversee Wheeling and captive energy projects. The role involves managing project execution, compliance with regulations, and maintaining high standards of quality. Candidates should have a Bachelor's in Engineering and substantial experience in construction or renewable energy project management. This position offers the opportunity to work within a dynamic team focused on delivering clean energy solutions.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in managerial roles for construction/EPC projects.
• Proven experience in Wheeling Projects and Utility Approval Processes.
• Familiarity with South African regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of Wheeling and captive energy projects.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and technical standards.
• Support Business Development team during commercial negotiations.

Skills

Project Management

Wheeling Projects

Risk Assessment

Construction Negotiation

Client Relationship Management

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Project Management certifications (PMP, Prince2)

Job description

Project Manager - Wheeling (Solar PV & C&I)

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

About the Role

A leading sustainable energy partner for businesses, serving commercial and industrial customers in the Middle East and Africa. The company’s clean energy solutions enable businesses to reduce energy costs, improve power reliability and lower carbon emissions.

The Senior Project Manager – Wheeling will lead the planning, execution, and successful delivery of Wheeling and captive energy projects in South Africa. This role serves as the primary point of accountability for project organization, schedule adherence, budget management, and contractor oversight. The Senior Project Manager will ensure projects comply with regulatory requirements, technical standards, and operational policies, while maintaining high standards of HSE, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Support the Business Development (BD) team during commercial negotiations, providing technical, financial, and construction-related inputs.
• Source quotations for IC-approved projects, review proposals, negotiate, and finalize EPC contracts with optimal terms.
• Collaborate with BD and Legal teams in negotiating PPA (Power Purchase Agreements) and Lease Agreements.
• Define project scopes, objectives, and deliverables, ensuring technical feasibility and compliance with local regulations.
• Conduct operational risk assessments (ORA) and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Ensure timely allocation of resources and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Evaluate potential subcontractors and provide input for project financial planning, including cashflow projections.
• Review and align electrical, mechanical, and civil quality plans with the Technical Team; oversee inspection and test procedures.
• Ensure compliance with South African regulations and obtain all necessary permits and licenses from authorities (e.g., NERSA, distribution companies).
• Lead EPC contract execution, coordinating internal teams and third-party contractors.
• Implement project management tools and techniques to monitor scope, schedule, costs, and performance.
• Identify, assess, and manage changes to project scope, schedule, and budget, ensuring timely approvals.
• Collaborate closely with the Technical Team on design review, structural calculations, and quality plan implementation.
• Monitor and report progress on construction, budget, and HSE compliance.
• Facilitate HSE adherence on-site and support internal audits.
• Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including progress reports, inspection records, and risk registers.
• Oversee commissioning activities and ensure submission of the complete commissioning package from EPC contractors.
• Finalize construction documentation and hand over projects to Asset Management and Operations & Maintenance (O&M) teams.
• Conduct post-project evaluation, including performance analysis and identification of lessons learned.
• Monitor and report on customer satisfaction and address any post-handover concerns.

Education & Experience (Essential):

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum 8 years’ experience in managerial roles for construction/EPC projects.
• Proven experience in Wheeling Projects and Utility Approval Processes.
• Experience in Captive Energy or PV Power Plant projects.
• Familiarity with South African regulations and multinational, matrixed working environments.
• Awareness of cultural differences and varying legal/regulatory environments.
• Project Management certifications (PMP, Prince2, or equivalent) preferred.
• Previous experience in renewable energy project management, particularly PV solar preferred.