Utility Scale Project Developer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Travel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced and driven Utility Scale Project Developer to identify, evaluate, and advance large-scale renewable energy projects in the Soweto region and surrounding areas. You will manage the entire lifecycle from site identification through to permits, financing, and interconnection agreements.

The role requires a minimum of 5 years in renewable energy project development with utility-scale focus, strong negotiation skills, and deep knowledge of PPAs and regulatory

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of renewable energy project development experience, utility-scale focus.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects from origination through to financial close.
• Strong understanding of PPA structures, project finance, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify and secure sites for utility-scale solar and wind projects.
• Conduct feasibility studies including resource, environmental, and grid interconnection analysis.
• Manage permitting and entitlement in line with regulations.
• Develop relationships with landowners, stakeholders, and local government.
• Negotiate PPAs and financing arrangements.
• Collaborate with EPC partners to ensure viability.

Skills

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Project management

PPA structures

Regulatory frameworks

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Utility Scale Project Developer to identify, evaluate, and advance large-scale renewable energy projects in the Soweto region and surrounding areas. This critical role involves managing the entire project lifecycle from initial site identification and feasibility studies through to securing permits, financing, and interconnection agreements. You will be instrumental in expanding our renewable energy portfolio, working closely with landholders, government agencies, and utility partners. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the renewable energy market, strong negotiation skills, and a proven track record of successfully developing complex projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and secure suitable sites for utility-scale solar and wind energy projects.
• Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies, including resource assessment, environmental impact, and grid interconnection analysis.
• Manage the permitting and entitlement process, ensuring compliance with all local, regional, and national regulations.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with land owners, community stakeholders, and local government officials.
• Negotiate and secure key project agreements, including Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and financing arrangements.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partners to ensure project viability and success.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in renewable energy project development , with a focus on utility-scale projects.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects from origination through to financial close.
• Strong understanding of PPA structures, project finance, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working within the South African energy market and familiarity with regulations in areas like Soweto .

Benefits

• Highly competitive base salary and significant performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Car allowance and travel expenses.
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership within a fast-growing sector.
• A challenging and rewarding role driving the transition to clean energy.