Senior Solar Farm Operations Lead – Upington

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

Training and development programs

Career advancement opportunities

Performance-based incentive plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Solar Farm Operations Manager to oversee multiple solar farms in Upington, Northern Cape. The role blends on-site oversight with remote coordination to maximize energy generation, reliability, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.

You will lead a team of technicians, manage budgets, and liaise with grid operators and regulators. A strong background in PV tech, SCADA, and HSE practices is essential for success in this leadership position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering (or related technical field)
• 7+ years in renewable energy with 4+ years in solar farm operations management
• Experience managing large-scale solar PV installations
• Strong understanding of solar PV technology, inverters, transformers, and SCADA systems
• Proven leadership and team management skills
• Excellent knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations in energy
• Proficiency in using O&M management software and monitoring tools
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to travel to solar farm sites within Upington and beyond

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day O&M of multiple solar farm sites
• Develop and implement strategies to maximize energy output and efficiency
• Lead technicians and support staff with coaching and performance reviews
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and contractual obligations
• Monitor plant performance using SCADA and address deviations promptly
• Plan and coordinate scheduled maintenance, repairs and troubleshooting
• Manage spare parts inventory, procurement and vendor relationships
• Develop and manage operational budgets and resource allocation
• Conduct site inspections and audits for safety and excellence
• Liaise with grid operators, regulators, and project developers

Skills

Leadership

Team management

SCADA systems

Problem solving

Communication

HSE knowledge

Analytical skills

Travel readiness

Vendor relationships

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Related technical field

Tools

SCADA software

O&M management software

Monitoring tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Solar Farm Operations Manager to oversee multiple solar farms in Upington, Northern Cape. The role blends on-site oversight with remote coordination to maximize energy generation, reliability, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.

You will lead a team of technicians, manage budgets, and liaise with grid operators and regulators. A strong background in PV tech, SCADA, and HSE practices is essential for success in this leadership position.