Senior Project Manager - Renewable Energy

Pty; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A renewable energy infrastructure firm is seeking a skilled Project Manager to manage and deliver renewable energy projects across South Africa. This role requires proven experience in project execution, particularly in Wind, Solar PV, and Battery Energy Storage Systems. The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree and 3 to 5 years in project management, preferably in renewable energy, as well as strong leadership and communication skills. The candidate must be willing to travel and have the legal right to work in South Africa.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of practical project management experience, with at least 3 years in renewable energy.
• Proven track record in delivering utility-scale wind, solar PV, and/or BESS projects.
• Strong understanding of South African REIPPPP processes and permitting.

Responsibilities

• Lead full project execution from feasibility through to handover.
• Develop and manage project plans, timelines, and budgets.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to ensure project success.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Contract management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Project Management

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

Introduction

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Project Manager with proven experience in the planning, execution, and delivery of renewable energy infrastructure projects, specifically Wind, Solar PV, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

The successful candidate will manage projects and/or provide project management support through all phases, from development to commissioning, ensuring delivery on time, within scope, and within budget, while maintaining strict safety and quality standards.

This role forms part of the construction management team, supporting the successful planning, execution, construction, and delivery of renewable energy projects across South Africa.

Duties & Responsibilities

Project Management

• Lead and/or assist Senior Project Managers with full project execution from feasibility through to handover.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets.
• Coordinate with EPC contractors, OEMs, consultants, and internal teams.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within planned constraints.
• Implement effective project tracking, controls, and reporting mechanisms.

Construction Oversight & Reporting

• Oversee site construction activities together with site-based teams to ensure alignment with technical requirements, schedules, and safety standards.
• Conduct regular site visits and chair site-based project meetings.
• Report on project performance — forecast vs actuals — across progress, risks, budgets, quality, HSSE, and other key execution metrics.

Stakeholder Management

• Engage with stakeholders such as clients, landowners, communities, and regulatory bodies.
• Prepare and deliver progress reports to senior management and relevant stakeholders.

Risk & Compliance

• Identify project risks and develop mitigation measures.
• Implement risk management plans to support successful delivery.
• Ensure compliance with South African environmental, health & safety, and energy regulations.
• Monitor and evaluate performance against quality and compliance standards.

Team Collaboration

• Work with and coordinate multidisciplinary project teams including engineers, planners, cost controllers, contractors, and subcontractors.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with organisational objectives.
• Support team development, growth, and performance on assigned projects.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Project Management, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of practical project management experience, with at least 3 years in renewable energy.
• Proven involvement in delivering utility‑scale wind, solar PV, and/or BESS projects — either as a Project Manager or part of a core project team.
• Strong understanding of South African REIPPPP processes, grid code requirements, and permitting.

Preferred

• PMP or PRINCE2 certification.
• Experience working with international EPCs or IPPs.
• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).

Skills

• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• High attention to detail and strong problem‑solving skills.
• Contract and financial management capability (FIDIC exposure beneficial).
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Other Requirements

• Willingness to travel to remote project sites throughout South Africa.
• Valid driver’s licence.
• Legal right to work in South Africa.

Additional Information