Electrical Design Engineer - Renewable Energy Projects

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 64,000 - 96,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Electrical Design Engineer for a solar PV-focused role based in Queenstown. You will design electrical systems, produce drawings, and ensure compliance with standards for renewable energy projects.

The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and at least four years in electrical design for PV projects, with strong AutoCAD skills and familiarity with BESS and grid interconnection norms. This on-site role offers growth in a dynamic energy team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in electrical design for solar PV projects.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar CAD software for electrical drafting.
• Experience with electrical design software and power system analysis tools is advantageous.
• Familiarity with battery energy storage systems (BESS) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical systems for solar PV power plants, including single-line diagrams, wiring layouts, and component specifications.
• Perform electrical calculations for load flow, short circuits, and protection coordination.
• Select equipment such as inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cabling.
• Ensure designs comply with national and international electrical codes and standards (IEC, SANS).
• Collaborate with civil engineers, project managers, and site teams to integrate electrical designs into project plans.
• Prepare technical documentation, including BOMs and construction drawings.
• Support procurement by providing technical specifications for electrical equipment.
• Assist in commissioning and testing to energize projects.

Skills

Electrical design

Solar PV

AutoCAD

Power system analysis

Grid interconnection standards

BESS familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Power system analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing renewable energy developer, is seeking an innovative Electrical Design Engineer to join their expanding operations based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This role is crucial for the design and engineering of electrical systems for solar photovoltaic (PV) and other renewable energy projects. You will be responsible for creating detailed electrical designs, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and supporting project development from feasibility through to construction. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of PV system design principles and a passion for sustainable energy solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the green energy transition in Queenstown and the wider Eastern Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Design electrical systems for solar PV power plants, including single-line diagrams, wiring layouts, and component specifications.
• Perform electrical calculations for load flow, short circuits, and protection coordination.
• Select appropriate electrical equipment such as inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cabling.
• Ensure all designs comply with national and international electrical codes and standards (e.g., IEC, SANS).
• Collaborate with civil engineers, project managers, and site teams to integrate electrical designs into overall project plans.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and construction drawings.
• Support the procurement process by providing technical specifications for electrical equipment.
• Assist in the commissioning and testing phases of projects to ensure successful energization.
• Stay updated on best practices and new technologies in the renewable energy sector.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in electrical design, with a specific focus on solar PV projects.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar CAD software for electrical drafting.
• Experience with electrical design software and power system analysis tools is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of electrical codes, safety regulations, and grid interconnection standards.
• Familiarity with battery energy storage systems (BESS) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.