Electrical Design Engineer - Grid Substations & Transmission

Placements24; Riverton (UT); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional growth opportunities

Hybrid working arrangements

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Electrical Design Engineer specializing in grid substations and transmission systems for projects in Upington, Northern Cape. You will design high‑voltage substations, perform system studies, and develop detailed drawings and specifications to modernize and expand the national grid.

The role requires 5–7 years of relevant experience, proficiency with ETAP/PSS/E/DIgSILENT, and knowledge of SA grid codes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with a Power Systems focus.
• 5–7 years in electrical substations and transmission systems.
• Proficiency with power system analysis software (ETAP, PSS/E, DIgSILENT).
• Strong knowledge of HV equipment, protection relays and control systems.
• Experience with SCADA and telecoms for substations is advantageous.
• Knowledge of SA grid codes and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Design high‑voltage substations with switchgear, transformers, busbars and earthing.
• Create detailed drawings, schematics and specs for substations.
• Perform load flow, short-circuit, transient and arc-flash studies.
• Design protection and control systems for substations and transmission lines.
• Ensure designs meet IEC, IEEE, SANS and utility requirements.
• Coordinate with clients and regulators throughout the project lifecycle.
• Support construction, commissioning and testing phases.
• Review third‑party designs for QA.

Skills

Power systems design

Substation design

Protection coordination

High-voltage equipment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

ETAP

PSS/E

DIgSILENT

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading engineering consultancy focused on energy infrastructure, is seeking an experienced Electrical Design Engineer specializing in grid substations and transmission systems for their operations in Upington, Northern Cape. This role is essential for the design and development of high-voltage substations, transmission lines, and related electrical infrastructure critical to the region's power supply. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of power system design, protection coordination, and relevant standards. You will be responsible for delivering robust, safe, and efficient electrical designs, contributing to the modernization and expansion of the national grid. This position offers a significant opportunity to work on impactful projects and develop your expertise within a reputable firm in a growing sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer high-voltage substations, including switchgear, transformers, busbars, and earthing systems.
• Develop detailed electrical drawings, schematics, and specifications for substation projects.
• Perform power system studies, including load flow, short circuit, transient stability, and arc flash analysis.
• Design and specify protection and control systems for substations and transmission lines.
• Ensure designs comply with national and international standards (e.g., IEC, IEEE, SANS) and utility requirements.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory bodies, and other engineering disciplines throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide technical support during the construction, commissioning, and testing phases.
• Review designs prepared by external parties and ensure quality assurance.
• Stay updated on new technologies and best practices in substation and transmission engineering.
• Contribute to project management activities, including scope definition and technical problem-solving.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in the design of electrical substations and transmission systems.
• Proficiency with power system analysis software (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E, DIgSILENT).
• Strong knowledge of high-voltage equipment, protection relays, and control systems.
• Experience with SCADA and telecommunication systems for substations is advantageous.
• Understanding of South African grid codes and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead design tasks within project teams.
• Registered or eligible for registration with ECSA.
• Hybrid work model with occasional site visits to Upington and surrounding areas.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth, advanced training, and certifications.
• Be part of critical infrastructure development in the Northern Cape.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Generous annual leave and company-provided resources.
• A collaborative and innovation-driven engineering environment.