Remote Solar Project Developer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first work

Health benefits

Professional development

Bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a remote Solar Project Developer to drive site identification, feasibility assessments, and land rights across South Africa. This remote-first role requires proactive stakeholder engagement and strong project governance.

You will lead due diligence, negotiate leases, coordinate with EPCs, and prepare proposals for financing. The position offers flexible work from home, health benefits, and opportunities to shape the country's clean energy transition.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in renewable energy project development, preferably solar.
• Proven site acquisition, negotiation, and permitting experience for energy projects.
• Strong knowledge of solar energy technologies, project finance, and SA regulations.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder influence skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects remotely and independently.
• Proficiency in project management tools and virtual collaboration platforms.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for solar development, considering feasibility, grid connection, and land availability.
• Conduct due diligence including environmental assessments, zoning checks, and title searches.
• Engage with landowners, local communities, and authorities to negotiate leases and secure permits.
• Develop project proposals and presentations for internal approvals and external financing.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Stay updated on solar tech advances and policy incentives affecting viability.
• Prepare regular progress reports for senior management with milestones and plans.

Skills

Site acquisition

Negotiation

Business development

Project management

Remote work

GIS tools

Stakeholder engagement

SA regulations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field

Tools

GIS software

MS Project / PM tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding force in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a dedicated Remote Solar Project Developer to join their innovative team. This position is specifically designed for a self-motivated individual who thrives in a remote-first environment. You will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and securing sites for solar energy projects across various regions, with a focus on the South African market. This role requires a proactive approach to business development, stakeholder engagement, and securing land rights and permits for new solar installations. As a remote employee, you will leverage digital collaboration tools and maintain proactive communication to ensure project success. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the growth of clean energy from the comfort of your own location, making a tangible impact on the transition to sustainable power.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for solar farm development, considering technical feasibility, grid connection opportunities, and land availability.
• Conduct thorough due diligence, including environmental assessments, zoning checks, and title searches.
• Engage with landowners, local communities, and government authorities to negotiate land leases and secure necessary permits and approvals.
• Develop compelling project proposals and presentations to secure internal approvals and external financing.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including utility companies, EPC contractors, and investors.
• Analyze market trends, regulatory changes, and competitive landscapes to identify new development opportunities.
• Manage project development timelines and budgets, ensuring projects are brought to fruition efficiently.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, procurement, and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Stay updated on advancements in solar technology and policy incentives that impact project viability.
• Prepare regular progress reports for senior management, highlighting achievements, challenges, and future plans.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience (minimum 5 years) in project development, specifically within the renewable energy sector, preferably solar.
• Demonstrated success in site acquisition, negotiation, and securing permits for energy projects.
• Strong understanding of solar energy technologies, project finance, and relevant South African regulations.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders effectively.
• Self-disciplined and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects remotely and independently.
• Proficiency in project management tools and virtual collaboration platforms.
• Ability to travel as needed for site visits and key meetings (though the role is remote-first).
• Familiarity with GIS tools and land surveying concepts is advantageous.
• A proactive mindset and a passion for driving the growth of renewable energy.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure. As a fully remote position, you will enjoy the flexibility and autonomy of working from home. We provide comprehensive health benefits, support for professional development, and the opportunity to be part of a company at the forefront of the clean energy transition in South Africa.

You’ll have access to cutting-edge tools and technologies, and the chance to shape impactful solar projects from inception to completion, contributing significantly to a sustainable future.