Project Developer (Engineering)

The Project Developer is responsible for the greenfield project development of Wind, Solar, and BESS projects in South Africa. The role will also involve the due diligence and evaluation of developed projects that the company might want to acquire.

The main purpose of the job is to be responsible for the origination of land, negotiation of land leases, and overall development and permitting of the greenfield portfolio. Ensuring projects are developed to standards and meet their development timelines to ensure a robust and valuable portfolio.

Job Description

1. Origination of land and projects.
2. Negotiation of land leases with prospective landowners.
3. Identify and secure land, grid connection, and complete all permitting necessary for project development.
4. Lead and manage 1GW green developments including allocated consultants.
5. Manage all local project stakeholders, from offtaker to grid operator, governmental bodies, service providers, and contractors.
6. Generate and manage project development budgets, schedules, and deliverables for assigned projects.
7. Lead the environmental permitting of Wind and Solar Hybrid greenfield projects with a strong focus on Wind development.
8. Manage the due diligence process for all projects for acquisition and sale.
9. Interface with all project functional areas: Engineering, Project, Finance, Accounting, Legal, and external stakeholders.
10. Lead, develop, and mentor the local development team.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or Environmental Sciences.
2. Minimum of 5 years relevant industry experience in Wind and Solar project development in South Africa.
3. Familiarity with the South African public tendering processes and the development of large-scale renewable energy projects and the permitting and approval process.
4. Proven project management skills for full project life-cycle development.
5. Prior experience in the development of utility-scale renewable energy projects.
6. Knowledge in understanding and interpreting Wind analysis & PV system reports.
7. Proficiency in understanding and reading technical specifications, design documents, and drawings.
8. Understanding of the project and corporate structure of large renewable energy projects.
9. In-depth knowledge of the South African energy market, Wind farm design & development, and the key role players.
10. Experience in the Eskom grid connection approval process.
11. Working knowledge and understanding of power purchase agreements, interconnection agreements, and EPC contract terms and conditions is preferable, but not required.
12. Needs to be self-driven and have the ability to work remotely and with different cultures.
13. Collaborative: you will work closely with the development teams and external parties.
14. Being able to provide and request information throughout the development process will be essential.
15. Proficiency in English is mandatory, both written and verbal.