Project Manager - Solar Farm Development

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee the development and construction of solar farms in George, Western Cape. You will drive projects from site assessment and permitting through to financial close and start of construction, coordinating with internal teams and external partners.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years of project management experience, with at least 4 years in renewable energy (solar PV), and strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or a related field.
• PMP certification is a strong asset.
• Minimum of 7 years of project management experience, with at least 4 years in renewable energy, preferably solar PV.
• Experience managing complex infrastructure projects from initiation to closure.
• Strong understanding of solar farm development processes, including site assessment, interconnection, permitting, and construction.
• Proficiency in project management software (MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively.

Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of solar farm development and construction projects, from conception to completion.
• Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with land acquisition teams, permitting specialists, and environmental consultants.
• Oversee the selection and management of EPC contractors.
• Ensure compliance with local, provincial, and national regulations and permitting requirements.
• Lead risk assessment and mitigation strategies for all projects.
• Facilitate communication among investors, utilities, and local communities.
• Monitor progress and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare regular project status reports for senior management and stakeholders.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or related field

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding developer of utility-scale solar energy projects, is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee the development and construction of new solar farms in and around George, Western Cape. This critical role requires a seasoned professional with a strong background in project management, specifically within the renewable energy infrastructure sector. You will be responsible for driving projects from initial site assessment and permitting through to financial close and commencement of construction. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership, organizational, and negotiation skills, with a proven ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and deliver projects on time and within budget. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact on the growth of clean energy in South Africa, working on high-profile projects in a beautiful region. You will be the lynchpin connecting various internal departments and external partners, ensuring seamless project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of solar farm development and construction projects, from conception to completion.
• Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with land acquisition teams, permitting specialists, and environmental consultants.
• Oversee the selection and management of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors.
• Ensure compliance with all local, provincial, and national regulations and permitting requirements.
• Lead risk assessment and mitigation strategies for all projects.
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among all project stakeholders, including investors, utilities, and local communities.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare regular project status reports for senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or a related field.
• PMP certification is a strong asset.
• Minimum of 7 years of project management experience, with at least 4 years specifically in the renewable energy sector, preferably solar PV.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex infrastructure projects from initiation to closure.
• Strong understanding of solar farm development processes, including site assessment, interconnection, permitting, and construction.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• Experience working in George, Western Cape, or similar regions, is advantageous.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate diverse project teams.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement contributions. This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth within a leading renewable energy company and the chance to contribute to a sustainable future in George, Western Cape.