Senior Solar Farm Project Developer

Placements24; Richards Bay; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement planning

Generous PTO

Remote work

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Solar Farm Project Developer for a fully remote role. You will identify sites, perform due diligence, secure land rights, and drive projects from initiation to financial close, working with investors and lenders.

Responsibilities include feasibility studies, permitting, regulatory navigation, and collaboration with EPC partners to deliver utility-scale solar. A strong background in project finance and remote work is essential.

Qualifications

• 6+ years in renewable energy project development, especially utility-scale solar.
• Strong financial modeling and project finance experience.
• In-depth knowledge of land acquisition, permitting, and interconnection.
• Proven track record in originating and bringing projects to close.
• Ability to work remotely and manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Identify and secure sites for utility-scale solar PV.
• Conduct feasibility studies (environmental, geotechnical, grid).
• Negotiate leases and land rights.
• Develop budgets and financial models.
• Obtain permits and regulatory approvals.
• Coordinate with EPC partners throughout lifecycle.
• Engage with communities, government, utilities.
• Manage investor and lender relationships during financing and PPA.

Skills

Financial modeling

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Project management

Independent work

Communication

Renewable energy knowledge

Education

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

Master's degree (plus)

Tools

MS Office

Project planning tools

Financial modelling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading developer in the renewable energy space, is seeking a seasoned Senior Solar Farm Project Developer to join their expanding operations. This is a fully remote position, empowering you to manage and advance solar projects from initiation through to financial close, regardless of your physical location. You will be responsible for identifying promising sites, conducting thorough due diligence, securing land rights, and navigating the complex regulatory landscape to bring utility-scale solar projects to fruition. This role is critical to our mission of accelerating the transition to clean energy. As a remote-first professional, you will leverage your expertise to build relationships with stakeholders, manage consultants, and contribute significantly to our project pipeline. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for renewable energy development and possess a proven track record, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and secure sites for utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) projects.
• Conduct comprehensive site feasibility studies, including environmental, geotechnical, and grid interconnection assessments.
• Negotiate and secure land leases, purchase options, and other necessary agreements.
• Develop and manage project budgets and financial models for solar farm developments.
• Lead the process of obtaining all necessary permits, licenses, and regulatory approvals.
• Coordinate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partners throughout the project lifecycle.
• Engage with local communities, government agencies, and utilities to build support and facilitate project progress.
• Manage relationships with investors, lenders, and off-takers during the financing and PPA negotiation stages.
• Stay abreast of market trends, policy changes, and technological advancements in the solar industry.
• Contribute to strategic business development initiatives and pipeline growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, Finance, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a strong emphasis on utility-scale solar projects.
• Proven success in originating, developing, and bringing solar projects to financial close.
• In-depth knowledge of land acquisition, permitting, environmental reviews, and interconnection processes.
• Strong financial modeling and analytical skills, with experience in project finance.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Familiarity with South African renewable energy policies, regulations, and market dynamics.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in project management software and standard office productivity tools.
• A passion for renewable energy and driving sustainable development.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a strong base salary and significant performance-based bonuses tied to project success. We provide comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning options, and a generous paid time off policy. As a fully remote role, you will enjoy the flexibility to design your work environment and schedule. We invest in our employees' growth through ongoing professional development opportunities, including workshops and conference attendance. Join a mission-driven organization that is making a tangible difference in the fight against climate change, with the autonomy and support to excel in your role.