Solar Farm Project Manager

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus tied to project success

Medical and life insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Generous leave allowance

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Solar Farm Project Manager to oversee utility-scale solar projects around George. The role covers planning, permitting, construction, commissioning and handover, ensuring on-time delivery within budget and high safety standards.

You will lead cross-functional teams, manage schedules and costs, and liaison with regulators to support renewable energy expansion in the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• PMP or similar certification is highly desirable.
• 8+ years of project management experience, with at least 5 years in renewable energy or solar.
• Demonstrated experience delivering large-scale solar projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of solar technologies, electrical systems, and civil engineering aspects.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (MS Project, Primavera).

Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of solar farm projects from site selection to commissioning.
• Develop and maintain detailed schedules, budgets, and resource plans.
• Coordinate with internal teams, contractors, suppliers, and regulators.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental standards, and contracts.
• Mitigate risks and implement effective solutions to challenges.
• Regularly report progress, performance, and financial status to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Project management

Stakeholder management

Risk management

Team coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned and results-oriented Solar Farm Project Manager to oversee the development and execution of utility-scale solar projects in and around George. This critical role involves managing all aspects of project lifecycle, from initial planning and permitting to construction, commissioning, and handover. You will be responsible for ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest safety and quality standards. Joining our client means contributing to a significant expansion in renewable energy infrastructure within the Western Cape, working within a company that values innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of solar farm projects, including site selection, design, procurement, construction, and commissioning.
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, budgets, and resource plans.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external contractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental standards, and contractual obligations.
• Mitigate project risks and implement effective solutions to overcome challenges.
• Regularly report on project progress, performance, and financial status to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• PMP or similar certification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of project management experience, with at least 5 years specifically in the renewable energy or solar industry.
• Demonstrated experience managing large-scale solar projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of solar technologies, electrical systems, and civil engineering aspects of solar farm development.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with annual bonuses tied to project success.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous leave allowance and paid public holidays.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance provided for site visits.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing renewable energy company.