Senior Renewables Project Developer

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus structure

Medical aid

Retirement savings

Performance incentives

Advanced training

Participation in industry events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Renewables Project Developer in Soweto, Gauteng. You will identify, evaluate, and secure solar and wind opportunities, lead stakeholder engagement, and drive projects from concept to financial close.

The role requires 7+ years in renewables, strong financial modeling, and experience with PPAs and land leases. Hybrid work arrangements are available to support regional collaboration and site visits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, Finance or related field.
• Master's degree or professional qualification is a plus.
• Minimum 7 years of renewable energy project development experience with a track record of financial close.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess renewable energy sites (solar, wind).
• Conduct feasibility studies including resource, grid, and environmental impact.
• Develop detailed project plans, financial models, and business cases for investment.
• Lead negotiations for land leases, PPAs, and project contracts.
• Manage relationships with landowners, communities, government agencies and stakeholders.
• Navigate permitting processes and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with EPC teams to define project requirements.
• Secure financing and manage financial close for new projects.
• Monitor market trends and policy changes in renewables.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Financial modeling

Negotiation

Project management

Communication

Team leadership

Travel willingness

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Environmental Science/Business/Finance

Master's degree or professional qualification

Tools

Excel/Financial modeling tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent developer and operator in the renewable Energy sector, is seeking a seasoned and results-oriented Senior Renewables Project Developer . This position is based in the Soweto, Gauteng, ZA area, with hybrid work arrangements available. You will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and securing new renewable energy project opportunities, primarily focusing on solar and wind power. This role involves extensive stakeholder engagement, site assessment, financial modeling, and navigating complex regulatory environments to bring projects from conception to financial close. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of renewable energy technologies, project finance, and development processes. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute significantly to South Africa's clean energy transition and to build a career with a leading company in a rapidly growing industry. You will be at the forefront of developing impactful sustainable energy solutions for the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for renewable energy projects (solar, wind).
• Conduct preliminary feasibility studies, including resource assessments, grid connection viability, and environmental impact.
• Develop detailed project plans, financial models, and business cases to secure internal and external investment.
• Lead negotiations for land leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and other key project contracts.
• Manage relationships with landowners, local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Navigate permitting processes and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and environmental standards.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to define project requirements.
• Secure financing and manage the financial close process for new projects.
• Monitor market trends, policy changes, and competitor activities within the renewable energy sector.
• Contribute to the strategic growth of the company's project pipeline.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, Finance, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant professional qualification is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a strong track record of successfully bringing projects to financial close.
• Demonstrated experience in site assessment, feasibility studies, and financial modeling for renewable energy projects.
• In-depth knowledge of solar PV and/or wind energy technologies.
• Familiarity with power purchase agreements (PPAs), land lease agreements, and other project contracts.
• Strong understanding of South African energy policy, regulations, and grid connection procedures.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in project management software and financial modeling tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Willingness to travel within the region for site visits and stakeholder meetings.

Benefits

• competitive salary and bonus structure
• medical aid
• retirement savings
• performance incentives
• advanced training
• participation in industry events

The company culture is dynamic, collaborative, and committed to sustainability. This role provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of renewable energy in Soweto and beyond, contributing directly to a greener future. Career growth prospects within the organization are excellent, allowing you to expand your expertise and influence.