Project Manager - Independent Power Producer (IPP)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with performance bonus

Company car allowance

Medical aid

Provident fund

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead renewable energy IPP developments in South Africa from our Polokwane office. The role blends site work with office coordination to deliver projects on time, within budget and to high safety standards.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in energy project management, strong leadership, and in-depth knowledge of SA energy policies and IPP tendering. Hybrid work with site visits will be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil) or related field; Master’s degree or PMP certification is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in project management within the energy sector, with IPPs/renewables focus.
• Proven track record delivering complex, large-scale energy projects from inception to completion.
• In-depth understanding of project finance, contract negotiation, and risk management in IPP context.
• Knowledge of South African energy policies, regulations, and IPP tendering processes.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Ability to travel and operate in a hybrid work setting, including site work.
• Experience managing budgets exceeding R100 million.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end management of IPP projects (solar, wind, and other generation tech) across SA.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, budgets, schedules, and resources.
• Oversee site selection, permitting, environmental assessments, land acquisition.
• Manage relationships with government agencies, utilities, contractors, suppliers, communities.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, permits, and contracts.
• Lead and motivate project teams to deliver results.
• Manage project risks and mitigation strategies.
• Oversee procurement, tendering, negotiation, and EPC contracts.
• Monitor progress, quality control, and safety compliance.
• Prepare and present status reports to senior management and investors.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Stakeholder management

MS Project

Primavera P6

Risk management

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/PM related field

Master's degree (advantage)

PMP certification (advantage)

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic player in the Independent Power Producer (IPP) market, is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee the development and execution of renewable energy projects across South Africa , based out of our Polokwane, Limpopo office. This role requires a seasoned professional capable of managing all phases of the project lifecycle, from initial conception and feasibility studies through to construction, commissioning, and handover. You will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing large-scale energy projects, strong leadership skills, and extensive knowledge of the South African regulatory and energy landscape. This hybrid role offers a balance of site-based work and office-based coordination, providing a comprehensive project management experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end management of Independent Power Producer (IPP) projects, including renewable energy (solar, wind) and potentially other generation technologies.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, budgets, schedules, and resource allocation.
• Oversee site selection, permitting, environmental assessments, and land acquisition processes.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, utilities, contractors, suppliers, and local communities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, permits, and contractual obligations.
• Lead and motivate project teams, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment.
• Manage project risks, identifying potential issues and developing mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the procurement process, including tendering, negotiation, and contract management with EPC contractors and equipment suppliers.
• Monitor project progress, implement quality control measures, and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management and investors.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil), Project Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or PMP certification is highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in project management within the energy sector, with a strong focus on Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and renewable energy projects.
• Demonstrated success in delivering complex, large-scale energy projects from inception to completion.
• In-depth understanding of project finance, contract negotiation, and risk management in the IPP context.
• Knowledge of South African energy policies, regulations, and the tendering process for IPPs.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Ability to travel as required and effectively manage projects in a hybrid work setting.
• Strong understanding of the technical aspects of renewable energy generation (solar, wind).
• Proven ability to manage budgets exceeding R100 million.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including performance bonuses and a company car allowance.
• Comprehensive medical aid, a generous provident fund, and significant opportunities for career advancement within a leading IPP company are provided.
• This role, based in Polokwane , offers the chance to manage impactful energy projects that contribute to the sustainable development of South Africa .
• Enjoy a dynamic work environment with the flexibility of a hybrid arrangement.