Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 128,000 - 214,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Career growth

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer for a hybrid role based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will design, implement, and maintain protective relaying schemes for transmission and distribution networks to ensure grid reliability.

You will lead fault analyses, configure relays, oversee commissioning, mentor junior engineers, and ensure compliance with IEC/IEEE standards while collaborating with project teams on capital delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related.
• Minimum 7 years in power systems protection engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of protective relaying principles and relay applications.
• Experience with protection simulation software and relay testing equipment.
• Substation design and HV equipment knowledge is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and review protection philosophies and schemes for transmission and distribution networks.
• Design, specify, and configure protective relays and equipment for substations and power plants.
• Perform fault analysis, load flow studies, and arc flash hazard assessments.
• Oversee testing, commissioning, and maintenance of protection systems.
• Collaborate with project engineers and field technicians for system integration.
• Investigate disturbances and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Stay updated on protection technology, standards, and best practices.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior protection engineers.
• Ensure compliance with IEC/IEEE standards and utility requirements.
• Manage protection engineering aspects of capital projects (delivery and budget).

Skills

Power systems protection

Protection philosophy development

Fault analysis

Relay testing

Hybrid collaboration

Mentorship

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

ETAP

PSS/E

ASPEN OneLiner

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the energy transmission and distribution sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer to join their team in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. This vital role involves the design, implementation, and maintenance of protective relaying schemes for power systems, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the grid. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for effective collaboration within the office and flexibility for remote work. You will be responsible for analyzing system faults, developing protection philosophies, and overseeing the commissioning of protection systems for substations and transmission lines. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to grid stability and resilience in a critical region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and review protection philosophies and schemes for transmission and distribution networks.
• Design, specify, and configure protective relays and associated equipment for substations and power plants.
• Perform detailed fault analysis, load flow studies, and arc flash hazard assessments.
• Oversee the testing, commissioning, and maintenance of protection systems.
• Collaborate with project engineers, field technicians, and other stakeholders to ensure successful integration of protection systems.
• Investigate and analyze system disturbances and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in protection technology, standards, and best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior protection engineers.
• Ensure compliance with relevant national and international standards (e.g., IEC, IEEE) and utility requirements.
• Manage protection engineering aspects of capital projects, ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in power systems protection engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of protective relaying principles, types of relays, and their application.
• Proficiency with protection simulation software (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E, ASPEN OneLiner) and relay testing equipment.
• Experience with substation design and high-voltage equipment is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of power system dynamics, fault calculations, and transient stability.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**.
• Professional registration with ECSA is desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and excellent opportunities for professional development and career growth. The hybrid work arrangement promotes work-life balance. Join a stable and reputable organization that plays a critical role in maintaining South Africa's energy infrastructure.