Principal Electrical Design Engineer - Renewable Energy

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 103,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Bonus opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Design Engineer to lead remote design initiatives for large-scale solar and wind projects. This role focuses on system architecture, grid interconnection, and high‑level power electronics, with mentorship responsibilities across a distributed team.

The ideal candidate will have 12+ years in electrical design for renewables, proficiency with PSS/E/ETAP/DIgSILENT, and a Pr. Eng would be preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with specialization in Power Systems or Renewable Energy.
• Proven experience in electrical design for large renewable projects.
• Knowledge of grid interconnection standards and power system protection principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design of renewable energy projects including system architecture and integration strategy.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and equipment specifications for solar and wind plants.
• Perform power system studies: load flow, short circuit, harmonic analysis, transient stability.
• Ensure designs comply with grid codes, international standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers and designers.
• Collaborate with project management, procurement, and construction teams for project execution.
• Evaluate electrical equipment such as transformers, switchgear, inverters, and cables.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design issues during development and construction phases.
• Contribute to design standards, tools, and process improvements.
• Stay abreast of latest renewable energy technologies and grid integration challenges.

Skills

Power Systems

Grid Interconnection

Renewable Energy

Leadership

Mentorship

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems / Renewable Energy)

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the renewable energy sector, is seeking an exceptional Principal Electrical Design Engineer to lead critical design initiatives from a remote position. This role is pivotal in conceptualizing and developing the electrical systems for large-scale solar and wind farm projects across South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in grid integration, power conversion technologies, and high-voltage AC/DC systems. You will be responsible for providing technical leadership, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the optimal performance and reliability of our renewable energy solutions. This is a fully remote role, demanding self-discipline, excellent communication, and a proactive approach to collaboration within a distributed team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of complex renewable energy projects, including system architecture, component selection, and integration strategy.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and equipment specifications for solar and wind power plants.
• Perform power system studies, including load flow, short circuit, harmonic analysis, and transient stability analysis.
• Ensure designs comply with grid codes, international standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers and designers.
• Collaborate with project management, procurement, and construction teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Evaluate and select electrical equipment such as transformers, switchgear, inverters, and cables.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical design issues encountered during project development and construction phases.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design standards, tools, and processes within the organization.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in renewable energy technologies and grid integration challenges.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems or Renewable Energy.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with at least 7 years focused on renewable energy projects.
• Proven track record in designing and integrating large-scale solar PV and/or wind energy systems.
• Extensive knowledge of power electronics, grid interconnection standards, and power system protection principles.
• Proficiency in power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, DIgSILENT PowerFactory).
• Experience with SCADA and control systems for renewable energy plants.
• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple high-priority projects in a remote setting.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) with ECSA is strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry-leading salary package, a comprehensive benefits suite including private medical aid, an excellent retirement fund, and significant bonus opportunities tied to project success and company performance.
• We champion professional growth through subsidized advanced training, conference participation, and opportunities to publish research.
• This fully remote position offers unparalleled flexibility and autonomy.
• Additional benefits include generous annual leave, wellness programs, and the chance to be part of groundbreaking projects that are shaping a sustainable future.
• Make a significant impact from anywhere in the country.