Senior Renewable Energy Project Developer

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement fund

International travel

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Renewable Energy Project Developer for our client in Benoni, Gauteng. The role leads the full development lifecycle for solar, wind and other technologies, from feasibility to PPAs and land rights.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in SA renewables, strong financial modelling, and deep regulatory knowledge. Hybrid work model, with collaboration across engineering, finance, and legal teams to deliver impactful projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field.
• Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum 8 years of renewable energy project development experience in SA.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate new renewable energy project opportunities (solar, wind, etc.).
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and resource analyses.
• Secure land rights, permits, and approvals for development.
• Negotiate and finalize PPAs and key contracts.
• Develop detailed project plans, budgets, and timelines.
• Coordinate with EPC partners and regulators.
• Engage stakeholders including investors and off-takers.
• Monitor market and policy changes affecting projects.

Skills

Project development

PPA negotiation

Financial modeling

Stakeholder management

SA market knowledge

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Finance/Business

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the renewable energy landscape, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Renewable Energy Project Developer to join their growing team in Benoni, Gauteng. This critical role will involve identifying, evaluating, and securing new renewable energy project opportunities, including solar, wind, and potentially other emerging technologies. You will be responsible for the full project development lifecycle, from initial site assessment and feasibility studies through to securing permits, land rights, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the South African energy market, regulatory frameworks, and financing mechanisms for renewable projects. This position operates on a hybrid model, combining essential in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. You will work closely with engineering, finance, and legal teams to bring complex renewable energy projects to fruition. We are looking for a strategic thinker with excellent negotiation and communication skills, a proven track record in project development, and a passion for driving the transition to sustainable energy. Your expertise will be instrumental in expanding our client's renewable energy portfolio within Gauteng and beyond. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of energy in South Africa and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess new renewable energy project development opportunities (solar, wind, etc.).
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and preliminary resource analysis.
• Secure land rights, permits, and all necessary approvals for project development.
• Negotiate and finalize Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and other key contracts.
• Develop detailed project plans, budgets, and timelines.
• Coordinate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partners.
• Liaise with government agencies, regulators, and local communities.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including investors and off-takers.
• Stay abreast of market trends, policy changes, and technological advancements in the renewable energy sector.
• Prepare investment proposals and secure project financing.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a strong focus on the South African market.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and financing utility-scale renewable energy projects.
• In-depth knowledge of renewable energy technologies, market dynamics, and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with PPA negotiation, land acquisition, and permitting processes.
• Strong financial modeling and project finance skills.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid environment.
• Proficiency in project management software.
• A passion for sustainable energy solutions.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary of up to ZAR .
• Performance-based bonuses and success fees on project closings.
• Hybrid work model providing excellent work-life balance.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and international travel.
• Work on high-impact projects in the rapidly growing renewable energy sector in Benoni.
• Collaborative and dynamic team environment.
• Generous annual leave.
• Potential for career advancement within a leading energy company.