Project Manager – Off-Grid Solar PV and BESS

Project Manager – Off-Grid Solar PV and BESS Join to apply for the Project Manager – Off-Grid Solar PV and BESS role at Allied Talent Partners Allied Talent Partners (ATP), a Three Cairns Group initiative, is a mission-driven, not-for-profit talent marketplace focused on solving the human capital bottlenecks slowing down sustainable development efforts in emerging economies, with an initial focus on Africa. ATP connects vetted, experienced, context-relevant professionals to high-impact opportunities in energy access and sustainable development – strengthening local capacity and fuelling economic vitality. We specialize in fixed-term, deliverable-driven engagements – from interim leadership and generalist projects to niche technical expertise – handling project scoping, talent vetting and matching, contracting, payroll, and compliance so that our clients can focus on impact. Department Project Finance Location South Africa – Limpopo (regular site presence required). Periodic travel to Pretoria. High-Level Overview Client is an Africa-focused renewable energy developer and independent power producer delivering clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy solutions for industrial and public-sector clients. The organisation develops, finances, and operates grid-tied and off-grid solar and storage systems across Southern Africa, with a strong focus on water, agriculture, and mining value chains. Role and Responsibilities Develop and maintain the detailed project execution plan, schedule, and resource allocation. Coordinate all design, procurement, construction, and commissioning activities to ensure alignment with scope, cost, and quality parameters. Track and forecast progress using earned value and performance measurement tools, flagging deviations proactively. Report key milestones, risks, and performance metrics to the Project Director. Act as the NEC Project Manager representative (if delegated) or internal lead executing all NEC contract processes. Manage early warnings, compensation events, and change notifications in line with contract requirements. Maintain accurate records of instructions, communications, and contractual events. Support the Project Director in negotiation of variations, claims, and commercial resolutions. Maintain and implement the project risk register, driving proactive mitigation of identified risks. Enforce adherence to the client's Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) and OHS management plans. Coordinate QA/QC systems to ensure compliance with SANS/IEC and project technical standards. Escalate major deviations or incidents to the Project Director and Steering Committee promptly. Track project cost performance and cash flow against the approved budget. Validate and process contractor progress payments, claims, and change orders. Prepare monthly financial forecasts and variance analyses for review with the Project Director. Support financial governance and audit readiness across all project workstreams. Manage operational-level coordination with the end‑user and alignment on daily project matters. Liaise with contractors, consultants, and local authorities for permits, inspections, and site readiness. Support the Project Director with stakeholder communication, community relations, and issue resolution. Manage site meetings, records, and follow‑up actions to ensure transparent coordination. Prepare weekly and monthly progress reports, dashboards, and risk logs for the Project Director. Maintain up-to-date documentation – drawings, submittals, test reports, and quality dossiers. Provide accurate inputs for Steering Committee and Executive reporting. Capture lessons learned and ensure full documentation close‑out post‑commissioning. Requirements 5–10 years’ experience managing EPC or infrastructure projects, including at least 3 years in solar PV or renewable energy. Demonstrated ability to coordinate multi-disciplinary teams, contractors, and consultants. Strong understanding of NEC contract administration, project controls, and cost management. Experience delivering projects in complex environments with multiple stakeholders and regulatory interfaces. Technical Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or Industrial). Professional registration (PrEng or PMP/Prince2) preferred. Proficiency in project planning tools (MS Project, Primavera) and cost-control systems. Working knowledge of HSE, quality, and environmental management systems. Familiarity with solar PV, BESS, and hybrid power system integration. Other Skills Organised and Structured: Manages complexity through disciplined processes. Accountable: Takes full ownership of delivery within assigned scope. Collaborative: Works transparently with PD, engineering, commercial, and site teams. Detail‑Oriented: Maintains documentation accuracy and control discipline. Proactive Problem Solver: Identifies risks early and drives resolution. Calm Under Pressure: Maintains composure and focus in dynamic site conditions. Candidates with experience under NEC frameworks and multi‑site coordination will be prioritised. Local or regional (Southern Africa) candidates preferred. Working Arrangement Location: Limpopo – Regular site presence required. Travel: Periodic travel to end-user’s head office (Pretoria) and for coordination and stakeholder meetings as needed. Terms of Agreement Start Date: Immediate / November 2025. Contracting Period: 24 months (project-based), aligned with construction and commissioning timelines. Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level Employment Type Contract Job Function Project Management and Information Technology Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Allied Talent Partners by 2x. #J-18808-Ljbffr