Senior Project Manager Lead – Johannesburg at Datafin Recruitment

ENVIRONMENT:

• Be part of something powerful! A fast-growing Solar Consultancy is on the hunt for a dynamic and experienced Senior Project Manager to take the lead on cutting-edge solar PV projects across South Africa.
• In this high-impact role, you’ll act as the Principal Agent/Owner’s Engineer, driving projects across all sectors from concept to completion.
• You’ll play a key role in both early-stage development and feasibility, shaping the future of renewable energy in the region.
• To thrive in this role, you’ll need a technical qualification (BSc Eng, BTech, or PMP Certification) and at least 5 years of hands-on experience in project or construction management within the engineering, renewable energy, or built environment sectors. If you’re ready to lead with purpose, this is your moment.
• This role is based in Johannesburg with national travel expected.

DUTIES:

• Lead the full solar PV project lifecycle, from feasibility through to construction and commissioning
• Manage multiple solar PV projects acting as Principal Agent / Owner’s Engineer
• Coordinate project meetings, milestone tracking, and contractor claims
• Conduct site visits for feasibility assessments and construction quality checks
• Support the commercial team with feasibility assessments, including site inspections, layout reviews, and Capex modelling.
• Review detailed designs, drawings, datasheets, and calculations
• Ensure compliance with project specs, local standards, and contractual obligations
• Liaise with client-side professionals (QSs, architects, engineers)
• Participate in contract negotiations and supplier due diligence
• Lead EPC tendering, evaluation, and supplier selection
• Track key project deliverables and update internal systems
• Produce technical and construction progress reports
• Capture and document lessons learned and best practices

REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Requirements:

Essential:

• Technical qualification: BSc Eng, B Tech, or PMP Certification
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in project management or construction management within the engineering, renewable energy, or built environment sectors
• Confident presenter and stakeholder manager

Preferred / Advantageous:

• Solar PV engineering or EPC experience, especially in the C&I market
• Electrical qualification or Wireman’s License
• Experience with JBCC Minor Works or Principal Building Agreements
• Familiarity with PV system components (electrical & mechanical)
• Solar PV design or draughting experience
• Google Workspace proficiency
• Experience in consultancy, Lenders TA, Owner’s Engineering, or Construction Monitoring

ATTRIBUTES:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Detail-oriented, proactive, and self-managing
• Able to operate independently while collaborating with internal teams
• Adaptable to the rapidly evolving landscape of renewable energy in South Africa
• A great communicator with a passion for clean energy solutions