Lead Electrical Design Engineer (Power Distribution)

Placements24; London Borough of Newham; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Challenging projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Design Engineer in East London to lead the design of power distribution projects up to 132kV. The role involves mentoring engineers, coordinating multiple workstreams, and ensuring delivery to time and budget.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems) with Pr. Eng. registration and 9+ years’ experience in power distribution design. Hybrid working options are available for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with power systems focus.
• Pr. Eng. registration required.
• At least 9 years in electrical power distribution design and engineering.
• Proven experience leading design teams and delivering complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design of power distribution projects up to 132kV, including substations and protection systems.
• Develop detailed designs, schematics, layouts and specs using industry software.
• Perform power system analysis: load flow, short circuit, protection coordination.
• Manage technical execution to meet budget and schedule.
• Provide technical guidance and supervision to engineers and drafters.
• Review and approve designs, calculations and documentation.
• Coordinate with clients, contractors, suppliers, and regulators.
• Ensure compliance with national/international codes and standards (SANS, NRS, IEC).
• Troubleshoot design, construction, and commissioning issues.
• Contribute to new design standards and methodologies.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Stakeholder management

Communication

Team management

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Pr. Eng. registration

Tools

ETAP

PSS/E

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading consulting engineering firm that plays a crucial role in developing and upgrading electricity distribution networks, is looking for an experienced Lead Electrical Design Engineer to join their team in East London . This senior position will involve leading the design and development of electrical distribution systems, including substations, overhead lines, and underground networks, for various energy projects. You will be responsible for technical design, project coordination, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality engineering solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of power distribution principles, network analysis, and project management, with a commitment to innovation in the energy sector. This is an excellent opportunity to influence critical infrastructure development in the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of power distribution projects, including substations (up to 132kV), switchgear, transformers, and protection systems.
• Develop detailed electrical designs, schematics, layout drawings, and specifications using industry-standard software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP).
• Perform power system analysis, including load flow, short circuit studies, and protection coordination studies.
• Manage the technical aspects of project execution, ensuring designs meet project requirements, budget, and schedule.
• Provide technical guidance and supervision to a team of electrical engineers and drafters.
• Review and approve designs, calculations, and technical documentation prepared by the team.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, suppliers, and regulatory authorities to ensure smooth project progress and compliance.
• Ensure designs adhere to relevant national and international electrical codes, standards, and best practices (e.g., SANS, NRS, IEC).
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues encountered during the design, construction, and commissioning phases.
• Contribute to the development of new design standards and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is essential.
• A minimum of 9 years of experience in electrical power distribution system design and engineering.
• Proven experience in leading design teams and managing the technical delivery of complex electrical infrastructure projects.
• Extensive knowledge of power distribution equipment, protection schemes, and network analysis techniques.
• Proficiency in power system analysis software such as ETAP, PSS/E, or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of project management principles and practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to mentor and develop junior engineering staff.
• Familiarity with environmental and safety regulations pertaining to electrical infrastructure.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to East London , with potential for hybrid working arrangements.

Benefits

• A leading salary commensurate with expertise and leadership responsibilities.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, pension fund, and performance bonuses.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry forums.
• Exposure to challenging and impactful projects in the energy distribution sector.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment in East London .
• Potential for flexible working hours and a hybrid work model.
• Chance to shape the future of power infrastructure in the region.