Renewable Energy Project Manager - Solar Farms

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Renewable Energy Project Manager to lead solar PV projects from feasibility to handover in Cape Town, Western Cape. You will drive schedules, budgets, and stakeholder coordination to deliver high-quality solar infrastructure on time and within budget.

The role requires 7+ years in project management with a focus on renewable energy, strong leadership and communication, and familiarity with SA energy regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field; Master's degree or PMP certification is advantageous.
• 7+ years of project management experience, with at least 5 years in renewable energy and preferably solar PV.
• Experience managing large-scale capital projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of solar energy technologies, grid integration, and project financing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with project management software (MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Ability to manage multiple projects under pressure; knowledge of SA energy regulations is a plus.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full lifecycle of renewable energy projects, focusing on solar PV installations.
• Develop detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocation strategies.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders, contractors, and regulators.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and risk analyses for project locations.
• Oversee procurement, vendor selection, contract negotiation, and equipment management.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and permitting requirements.
• Monitor project progress, identify issues, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Manage project finances, track expenditures, and ensure adherence to budget constraints.
• Prepare regular project status reports for senior management and clients.

Skills

Project management

Renewable energy knowledge

Solar PV expertise

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

MS Project

Primavera P6

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related

Master's degree or PMP certification (advantageous)

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in sustainable energy solutions, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Renewable Energy Project Manager to oversee the development and execution of large-scale solar farm projects across Cape Town, Western Cape. This role is critical for driving the company's expansion in renewable energy infrastructure, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all phases of the project lifecycle, from initial feasibility studies and site selection to construction, commissioning, and handover. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the green energy transition in South Africa and work within a company committed to innovation and environmental stewardship in the beautiful Cape Town, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full lifecycle of renewable energy projects, with a primary focus on solar photovoltaic (PV) installations.
• Develop detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocation strategies.
• Coordinate with internal teams, including engineering, procurement, construction, and operations, as well as external stakeholders, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and risk analyses for potential project locations.
• Oversee the procurement process, including vendor selection, contract negotiation, and equipment management.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations, environmental standards, and permitting requirements.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential issues, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure timely and successful project completion.
• Manage project finances, track expenditures, and ensure adherence to budget constraints.
• Prepare regular project status reports for senior management and clients.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil), Project Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or PMP certification is advantageous.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in project management, with at least 5 years specifically within the renewable energy sector, preferably solar PV.
• Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale capital projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of solar energy technologies, grid integration, and project financing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively under pressure.
• Knowledge of South African energy regulations and permitting processes is highly desirable.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town, Western Cape.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, pension fund contributions, paid time off, and significant opportunities for professional growth within the rapidly expanding renewable energy industry. This role is based in Cape Town, Western Cape, a city known for its stunning natural beauty and dynamic business environment.