Project Manager - Solar Farm Development

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary + bonus

Medical insurance

Retirement fund

Leave allowance

Company car

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead large-scale solar farm projects in Centurion, Gauteng. The role requires overseeing all phases from feasibility to commissioning, with a hybrid work setup to balance on-site oversight in Centurion.

Ideal candidates have 8+ years in renewables project management, strong knowledge of solar PV systems, and PMP or equivalent certification. A Bachelor's in Engineering is required; a Master's is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil) or related field.
• 8+ years in project management with renewable energy experience.
• Experience managing budgets above R100 million.
• Strong knowledge of solar PV technology and construction methods.
• PM certification (PMP) preferred; English fluency required.

Responsibilities

• Manage full lifecycle of solar farm projects from site selection to commissioning.
• Develop detailed plans: scope, budget, schedule, resources.
• Identify and mitigate risks; coordinate with stakeholders.
• Oversee procurement, ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Provide regular progress and financial reports to senior management.
• Ensure on-time, on-budget delivery with high quality.
• Build relationships with investors, landowners, regulators.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Budgeting

Risk management

MS Project

Primavera P6

PMP

English

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Master's degree

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent developer in the renewable energy sector, is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee the development and execution of large-scale solar farm projects. This role, based in Centurion, Gauteng , requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record in managing complex infrastructure projects from conception through to completion. You will be responsible for all facets of project management, including planning, budgeting, scheduling, stakeholder engagement, and risk mitigation. This is a critical position that will contribute directly to expanding clean energy capacity. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the renewable energy market, project finance, and construction management. The role operates under a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for flexibility while ensuring essential on-site presence for project oversight in the Centurion area.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the entire lifecycle of solar farm projects, from site selection and feasibility studies to construction and commissioning.
• Develop and execute detailed project plans, including scope, budget, schedule, and resource allocation.
• Identify, assess, and manage project risks, implementing mitigation strategies as needed.
• Coordinate and liaise with internal teams, external consultants, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Secure necessary permits, licenses, and approvals from relevant government bodies and stakeholders.
• Oversee the procurement process for equipment and services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Monitor project progress, performance, and financial status, providing regular reports to senior management.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, landowners, and community representatives.
• Drive continuous improvement in project execution methodologies and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil), Project Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in project management, with a significant portion dedicated to renewable energy projects, preferably solar.
• Demonstrated success in managing projects with budgets exceeding R100 million.
• In-depth knowledge of solar PV technology, project development processes, and construction methodologies.
• Strong understanding of contract negotiation, risk management, and financial modeling.
• Proven ability to manage multiple stakeholders and build consensus.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Experience with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
• PMP or equivalent project management certification is highly preferred.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of other South African languages is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure linked to project success.
• Comprehensive medical insurance and retirement fund.
• Generous leave allowance and professional development opportunities.
• Company car or travel allowance.
• Exposure to cutting-edge renewable energy projects in Gauteng .
• Opportunity to work with a highly motivated and experienced team.
• A strategic role contributing to South Africa's energy transition.