Senior Solar Farm Development Lead

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Medical benefits

Annual leave

Career growth

Project exposure

Team workshops

Collaborative culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Solar Farm Development Manager in Centurion, Gauteng, to spearhead origination, assessment and development of utility-scale solar projects, including site identification, land rights, permitting, and stakeholder engagement.

You will work with cross-functional teams, manage budgets, secure land leases, PPAs, and financing, ensuring compliance and timely delivery in SA's growing solar market.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, or Urban Planning.
• 6+ years in renewable energy project development, with emphasis on solar PV.
• Proven track record securing sites, land rights, and navigating permitting.
• Strong knowledge of solar tech, project finance, and power markets.
• Able to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience building diverse stakeholder relationships.
• GIS software and project management tools proficiency a plus.
• Knowledge of SA energy regulations and permitting procedures.
• Team player who can also work independently.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential sites for solar farm development, considering solar resource, grid access, land availability, and environmental constraints.
• Lead the process of securing land leases, options, or purchase agreements.
• Manage and coordinate the full scope of project development activities, including environmental impact assessments, zoning, permitting, and interconnection studies.
• Develop and maintain relationships with landowners, local authorities, community groups, and other key stakeholders.
• Prepare project development budgets and track expenses.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to ensure projects are technically sound and cost-effective.
• Secure necessary project financing and work with financial institutions.
• Oversee the negotiation of power purchase agreements (PPAs) and other key project contracts.
• Provide market intelligence and strategic input on solar development opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies throughout the development process.

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Solar Farm Development Manager in Centurion, Gauteng, to spearhead origination, assessment and development of utility-scale solar projects, including site identification, land rights, permitting, and stakeholder engagement.

You will work with cross-functional teams, manage budgets, secure land leases, PPAs, and financing, ensuring compliance and timely delivery in SA's growing solar market.