Senior Solar Power Project Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Solar Power Project Manager to lead large-scale solar projects across South Africa from Johannesburg, Gauteng. You will drive the project lifecycle from conception to commissioning, ensuring on-time delivery within budget and high quality standards.

You will coordinate engineering, procurement, construction, legal and finance teams, manage stakeholder relationships, assess risks, and report to senior management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field is required.
• Minimum 7 years in project management with solar/renewable energy exposure.
• Master’s degree is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead all phases of solar project development and execution.
• Develop detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and resources.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams across engineering, procurement, construction, legal and finance.
• Manage external stakeholders including clients, suppliers and regulators.
• Identify and mitigate project risks; ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor progress and present status reports to senior management.
• Drive continuous improvement of PM processes.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Team coordination

Risk management

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering / related field

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading innovator in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Solar Power Project Manager to oversee the successful execution of large-scale solar projects across South Africa. This pivotal role is based in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, Gauteng . You will be instrumental in driving project lifecycle from conception through to completion, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the sustainable energy landscape in the region and to contribute to a greener future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all phases of solar power project development and execution, including planning, design, procurement, construction, and commissioning.
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocation strategies.
• Oversee and coordinate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, procurement, construction, legal, and finance.
• Manage relationships with external stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, contractors, regulatory bodies, and community representatives.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks, ensuring proactive problem-solving and decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations, environmental standards, and contractual obligations.
• Monitor project progress, identify deviations from plan, and implement corrective actions as necessary.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of project management processes and methodologies within the organization.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil), Project Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in project management, with at least 5 years specifically focused on solar power or renewable energy projects.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale, complex projects from initiation to closure.
• Strong understanding of solar technology, project finance, grid connection requirements, and relevant South African energy regulations.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6) and a strong command of project management methodologies (e.g., PMI, PRINCE2).
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Willingness to travel within Gauteng and occasionally to other project sites as required.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing industry.
• Be part of a forward-thinking company committed to sustainability and innovation.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.