Director: Solar Engineering - Utility-scale

Smart4Energy is seeking a Director: Solar Engineering in Cape Town, South Africa, to lead the technical development of utility-scale solar PV projects. This leadership role requires expertise in solar engineering, team management, project delivery, and compliance with industry standards. The candidate will oversee engineering processes, mentor engineers, engage with stakeholders, and ensure project quality throughout the lifecycle of solar PV projects.
A leading renewable energy developer and Independent Power Producer is seeking an experienced Director: Solar Engineering to lead the technical development, optimisation, and delivery of large‑scale solar PV projects across South Africa. This is a high‑impact leadership role for a seasoned solar engineering professional with deep utility‑scale expertise and a passion for building and guiding high‑performance engineering teams.

Role Overview

The Director: Solar Engineering will take ownership of the end‑to‑end technical lifecycle of solar PV projects, from early development and bid support through detailed design, construction, commissioning, and operational support.

Reporting to the Head of Engineering, this role works closely with senior leaders across wind, battery energy storage (BESS), development, procurement, construction, and asset management teams. The position offers strong influence across a rapidly expanding renewable energy portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Leadership & Team Development

Lead and manage the Solar Engineering team within the broader Engineering functionBuild a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvementDefine performance expectations, develop capability plans, and mentor engineers at all levelsImprove workflows and engineering processes to enhance efficiency and delivery qualityTechnical Oversight & Project Delivery

Oversee all engineering aspects of utility‑scale solar PV projectsSupport project development, bidding, financial close, construction, and commissioningLead internal engineering workstreams and manage external engineering consultants as requiredDevelop and review long‑term energy yield forecasts using tools such as PVSystDrive system optimisation, layout design, and technical risk mitigationCommercial & Stakeholder Engagement

Support procurement processes including RFPs, Employer's Requirements, and technical schedulesLead technical due diligence and negotiations with OEMs, EPCs, and BoP contractorsInterface with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure aligned, buildable designsQuality, Compliance & Continuous Improvement

Ensure compliance with Eskom standards, grid codes, SANS and IEC standardsLead internal and external design reviews and respond to site‑based technical queriesDrive standardisation of technical documentation, design templates, and training materialCapture lessons learned and embed continuous improvement into engineering practicesOperational & Asset Support

Provide technical input to Operations & Maintenance and Asset Management teamsRecommend technical enhancements or design changes across the asset lifecycleRequirements & Experience

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical or Electro‑Mechanical Engineering (preferred)10+ years' experience in utility‑scale solar PV system design and deliveryStrong experience across EPC, split contracts, HV systems, and Balance of PlantExposure to hybrid plants and/or Battery Energy Storage Systems is advantageousProficiency in AutoCAD, PVSyst, PVCase, RatedPower, GIS tools, and modelling softwareDemonstrated experience building and leading high‑performing engineering teamsStrong working knowledge of South African grid codes, Eskom, NERSA, SANS and IEC standardsProfessional registration (PrEng) or equivalent certifications advantageousKey Attributes

Strategic thinker with strong implementation focusTechnically rigorous with excellent attention to detailNatural leader and mentorAdaptable and resilient in a fast‑paced project environmentPassionate about renewable energy and long‑term infrastructure development