Utility Scale Solar Project Developer

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Travel expense reimbursement

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks an experienced Utility Scale Solar Project Developer to lead the expansion of a renewable portfolio in Soweto and beyond. You will identify, secure, and advance large-scale solar projects from concept through financial close, including site acquisition, permitting, and interconnection.

You will collaborate with landholders, utilities and regulators, build strong investor relationships, and deliver robust project economics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in solar project development, specifically utility-scale.
• Proven track record of bringing solar projects through development to financial close.
• Knowledge of solar technology, site assessment, permitting regulations, and interconnection processes.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential sites for utility-scale solar projects, including resource, grid access, and permitting feasibility.
• Lead land acquisition and leasing, negotiating terms with property owners.
• Manage permitting and zoning processes at local, regional, and national levels.
• Coordinate with utilities to secure interconnection agreements and grid integration requirements.
• Develop project economic models and support fundraising for project financing.
• Build and maintain relationships with investors, government officials, and community groups.

Skills

Solar project development

Site assessment

Permitting & interconnection

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Communication

Travel flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and motivated Utility Scale Solar Project Developer to drive the expansion of their solar portfolio in the Soweto region and beyond. This role is crucial for identifying, securing, and advancing large-scale solar projects from initial concept through to financial close. You will be responsible for site acquisition, permitting, interconnection processes, and stakeholder engagement, working closely with landholders, utilities, and regulatory bodies. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of the solar development lifecycle, excellent negotiation skills, and a passion for advancing renewable energy infrastructure in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential sites for utility-scale solar projects, including assessing resource availability, grid access, and permitting feasibility.
• Lead the land acquisition and leasing process, negotiating terms and conditions with property owners.
• Manage the complex permitting and zoning process at local, regional, and national levels.
• Coordinate with utility companies to secure interconnection agreements and manage grid integration requirements.
• Develop project economic models and support fundraising efforts for project financing.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, government officials, and community groups.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in solar project development , specifically with utility-scale projects.
• Proven track record of successfully bringing solar projects through the development pipeline to financial close.
• In-depth knowledge of solar technology, site assessment, permitting regulations, and interconnection processes.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to travel as needed for site visits and meetings within the Soweto area and surrounding regions.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary with a significant performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Car allowance and travel expense reimbursement.
• Extensive opportunities for professional growth and career advancement in the renewable energy industry .
• Direct impact on expanding clean energy infrastructure and contributing to a sustainable future.