Remote Solar Project Developer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary with uncapped-

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Home office stipend

Professional development opportunities

Remote-friendly culture

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Remote Solar Project Developer to identify, evaluate, and secure solar projects across multiple territories, with emphasis on markets near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role involves landowner outreach, regulatory navigation, and early-stage development, all from a fully remote setup.

The candidate should have a solid solar/finance background, strong stakeholder relations, and the ability to manage timelines and budgets independently.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.
• At least 4 years in renewable energy project development.
• Experience originating solar projects from concept to ready-to-build.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate solar project sites.
• Conduct feasibility studies including resource assessment and regulatory review.
• Build relationships with landowners, authorities, and communities.
• Negotiate leases, PPAs, and project agreements.
• Develop financial models to assess viability and attract investment.
• Collaborate with EPC teams to progress projects.
• Monitor market trends, policy changes, and competition.
• Manage development timelines and budgets.
• Prepare pipeline status reports and milestones.
• Represent the company at industry events.

Skills

Project development

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Financial modeling

Remote work

Regulatory awareness

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

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

Tools

Excel

Salesforce

GIS tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the global renewable energy market, is seeking an ambitious and results-oriented Remote Solar Project Developer. This fully remote position offers the unique opportunity to identify, evaluate, and secure new solar energy projects across various territories, with a focus on strategic markets that may include regions near **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. You will play a critical role in expanding our client's project pipeline by initiating contact with landowners, understanding local regulations, and managing the early-stage development process. The ideal candidate will have a keen understanding of solar technology, project finance, and a proven ability to build strong relationships. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated individual to make a significant impact in the clean energy transition while enjoying the flexibility of a remote work arrangement. We are committed to fostering a sustainable future and believe in empowering our team members to drive this mission forward. Your entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to identifying viable opportunities will be highly valued. The company provides excellent support for its remote workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential sites for solar energy projects.
• Conduct initial feasibility studies, including resource assessment, grid interconnection analysis, and regulatory review.
• Build and maintain relationships with landowners, local authorities, and community stakeholders.
• Negotiate and secure land leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and other critical project agreements.
• Develop project proposals and financial models to assess project viability and attract investment.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to ensure seamless project progression.
• Stay informed about market trends, policy changes, and competitive landscapes in the solar energy sector.
• Manage project development timelines and budgets effectively.
• Prepare regular reports on project pipeline status and development milestones.
• Represent the company at industry events and networking opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in project development, specifically within the renewable energy or solar industry.
• Demonstrated success in originating and developing solar projects from concept to ready-to-build stage.
• Strong understanding of solar technology, project finance, PPA structures, and permitting processes.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities effectively, and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in relevant software for project analysis and management (e.g., Excel, Salesforce, GIS tools).
• Knowledge of South African energy market dynamics and regulatory framework is a significant advantage.
• Willingness to travel as needed for site visits and key meetings, potentially in regions surrounding **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**.
• Self-starter with a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary with uncapped commission/bonus potential tied to project success.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off and flexible working hours.
• Professional development opportunities and industry conference attendance.
• Full remote work arrangement with a stipend for home office expenses.
• Opportunity to work on impactful projects that contribute to a sustainable future.
• Direct influence on project pipeline growth and company strategy.
• Supportive virtual team environment and regular check-ins.
• Cutting-edge tools and technologies to facilitate remote work efficiency.