Principal Electrical Engineer - Power Infrastructure

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 49,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Development budget and certifications

Company vehicle or travel allowance

Annual performance bonuses

Prime Randburg office location

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer in Randburg to lead the design and delivery of high‑voltage substations, transmission, and distribution projects. You will provide expert technical leadership, mentor engineers, and ensure design integrity, safety, and efficiency across large-scale projects.

The role requires a Master’s in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems), Pr.Eng. with ECSA, and 12+ years of relevant experience, including substations up to 400 kV.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems).
• Pr.Eng. registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• ≥12 years of progressive experience in electrical engineering.
• Extensive experience in designing substations up to 400 kV.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering of high-voltage substations, transmission, and distribution systems.
• Develop detailed engineering specifications, drawings, and calculations.
• Perform advanced power system analysis, including load flow, fault studies, and transient stability.
• Oversee the selection and specification of high-voltage electrical equipment (transformers, switchgear, protection relays).
• Ensure designs comply with national and international electrical engineering standards and codes.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers and designers.
• Review and approve engineering designs and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with project managers, construction teams, and clients to ensure successful project delivery.
• Conduct technical site investigations and support commissioning activities.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in power engineering.

Skills

Leadership

Power systems analysis

Communication

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering - Power Systems

Pr.Eng. registration with ECSA

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected leader in power infrastructure development, is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer with extensive experience to join their flagship engineering division in Randburg, Gauteng . This senior role is pivotal in the design, planning, and execution of large-scale electrical infrastructure projects, including substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks. You will provide expert technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and ensure the highest standards of design integrity, safety, and efficiency are met. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of power system analysis, high-voltage equipment, protection systems, and regulatory compliance within the energy sector. This is an office-based position in Randburg , offering direct engagement with project teams and significant hands-on involvement. We are looking for a visionary engineer with exceptional problem-solving abilities, a commitment to innovation, and a proven ability to manage complex technical challenges. Your expertise will be crucial in delivering critical energy infrastructure projects that support the economic growth and development of the region. This is an outstanding opportunity to lead challenging projects and make a lasting impact on South Africa's energy future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering of high-voltage substations, transmission, and distribution systems.
• Develop detailed engineering specifications, drawings, and calculations.
• Perform advanced power system analysis, including load flow, fault studies, and transient stability.
• Oversee the selection and specification of high-voltage electrical equipment (transformers, switchgear, protection relays).
• Ensure designs comply with national and international electrical engineering standards and codes.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers and designers.
• Review and approve engineering designs and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with project managers, construction teams, and clients to ensure successful project delivery.
• Conduct technical site investigations and support commissioning activities.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in power engineering.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with a strong focus on power infrastructure.
• Extensive experience in the design of substations (up to 400kV) and transmission/distribution networks.
• In-depth knowledge of power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, PowerFactory).
• Expertise in protection and control systems for high-voltage applications.
• Strong understanding of electrical codes, standards (e.g., IEC, SANS), and safety regulations.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with project management principles is advantageous.

Benefits

• A highly competitive annual salary package of up to ZAR .
• Opportunity to lead major, transformative power infrastructure projects.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Generous professional development budget and support for certifications.
• Prime office location in Randburg .
• Dynamic and challenging work environment.
• Annual performance bonuses.
• Company-provided vehicle or travel allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement.