Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Project Developer

at Scatec Solar

🏢 About Scatec Solar

Scatec Solar is a leading independent power producer with a strong track record of delivering large-scale solar projects globally, including over 600 MW installed. The company focuses on affordable, sustainable solar power and has a collaborative, cross-functional work environment. Working here offers the chance to contribute to Africa's energy transition with a team that values innovation and local impact.

About This Role

As Senior Project Developer, you will lead greenfield renewable energy projects from pre-feasibility to financial close, managing all development workstreams such as site screening, land acquisition, permitting, and grid processes. Your work directly enables the construction of utility-scale solar and storage projects, making a tangible impact on South Africa's renewable energy landscape.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing environmental study reports, meeting with landowners to negotiate access agreements, and coordinating with the grid team on connection timelines. You'll also prepare progress updates for the investment committee and troubleshoot permitting delays with external consultants.

🎯 Who Scatec Solar Is Looking For

  • 8-12+ years of experience in renewable energy project development, with specific expertise in utility-scale solar PV, wind, or battery storage in South Africa.
  • Deep knowledge of South African regulatory and permitting processes, including Environmental Impact Assessments, Water Use Licences, and grid connection procedures.
  • Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams (engineering, legal, finance) and external stakeholders (landowners, regulators, communities) to de-risk projects.
  • A relevant degree in Environmental Management, Engineering, or a related field, with a track record of successfully bringing projects to financial close.

📝 Tips for Applying to Scatec Solar

1

Highlight specific South African projects you've developed, detailing your role in permitting, land acquisition, and grid connection.

2

Demonstrate familiarity with Scatec's project portfolio, such as their solar plants in South Africa, and mention how your experience aligns with their development model.

3

Quantify your achievements: e.g., 'Led permitting for a 100 MW solar project that achieved financial close in 18 months.'

4

Tailor your CV to emphasize cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management, not just technical skills.

5

Include a cover letter that directly addresses the job description's key workstreams (site screening, EIA, grid processes).

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your experience with South African renewable energy regulations and permitting, especially EIA and Water Use Licence applications.', 'Proven ability to manage project timelines and budgets from pre-feasibility to financial close.', 'Specific examples of stakeholder engagement (landowners, communities, government) and how you mitigated risks.', "Alignment with Scatec's mission to deliver affordable solar power and your passion for sustainable energy in Africa."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review Scatec's current projects in South Africa (e.g., Kenhardt, Upington) to understand their development approach and scale.
  • Study the South African Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) and recent bid rounds.
  • Understand Scatec's corporate structure and values, especially their focus on sustainability and local partnerships.
  • Look into recent news about Scatec's expansion into battery storage and hybrid projects.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through a project you developed from greenfield to financial close – what were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?
2 How do you approach land acquisition and community engagement in South Africa? Describe a difficult negotiation.
3 What is your experience with grid connection processes for utility-scale projects in South Africa?
4 How do you coordinate with engineering, legal, and finance teams to de-risk a project?
5 Tell us about a time a project faced regulatory delays – how did you manage the situation?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic CV without tailoring to South African renewable energy experience and regulations.
  • Failing to mention specific permitting or grid connection experience – this is critical for the role.
  • Overemphasizing technical engineering skills while neglecting stakeholder management and project de-risking.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Scatec Solar!