Job Purpose
The Electrical Design Engineer (Jnr Engineer) is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing electrical systems and solutions for projects in accordance with client requirements, industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company specifications. The role includes preparing engineering designs, drawings, calculations, technical reports, and providing technical support throughout the project lifecycle, with focus on renewable energy projects.
Key Responsibilities
Electrical Design and Engineering
- Develop concept and detailed electrical designs related to the renewable energy sector, i.e.
- MV Collector Designs (Cable)
- MV Collector Designs (OHL)
- IPP Substation (Primary Plant Works)
- Earthing Analysis through Software
- Prepare electrical single-line diagrams, schematics, layouts, and detailed engineering drawings.
- Design medium-voltage (MV) and low-voltage (LV) electrical systems.
- Ensure designs comply with applicable national and international standards and regulations.
- Review technical drawings and specifications.
Project Engineering
- Participate in project planning, engineering reviews, and technical meetings.
- Coordinate design activities with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
- Monitor engineering deliverables to ensure compliance with project schedules and budgets.
- Provide technical input during project execution and commissioning.
- Support project managers with technical advice and solutions.
Technical Support and Problem Solving
- Conduct site investigations and assessments when required.
- Identify and resolve technical design issues and engineering challenges.
- Provide engineering support during installation, testing, and commissioning phases.
- Evaluate engineering changes and recommend improvements.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Ensure all engineering designs meet company quality standards.
- Verify compliance with applicable electrical codes, regulations, and client specifications.
- Conduct design reviews and quality checks before approval and issue.
- Maintain accurate engineering records and documentation.
Procurement and Vendor Management
- Prepare technical specifications for electrical equipment and materials.
- Evaluate supplier quotations and technical submissions.
- Liaise with vendors and contractors regarding technical requirements.
- Review equipment datasheets and approve technical documentation.
Research and Development
- Investigate new technologies and engineering solutions.
- Recommend improvements to design processes and methodologies.
- Contribute to standardization and continuous improvement initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree / BEng in Electrical Engineering.
- Registered or eligible for registration with ECSA as a Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) is advantageous.
- Valid driver's license.
Experience
- Minimum 3 to 5 years' experience in electrical design engineering, with focus on renewable energy
- Experience in distribution, renewable energy, or infrastructure projects.
- Experience with electrical design software and engineering calculations.
- Knowledge of relevant South African electrical standards and regulations.
Technical Skills
- Electrical system design and analysis.
- Cable sizing and routing design.
- Earthing and lightning protection design.
- PLSCAdd design software.
- CDEGS / XGSLab or Similar for Earthing Analysis software.
- Microsoft Office Suite.
Key Competencies
- Analytical Thinking
- Attention to Detail
- Problem Solving
- Technical Expertise
- Planning and Organizing
- Communication Skills
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Innovation
- Results Orientation
- Client Focus
Working Conditions
- Office-based engineering design work with occasional site visits.
- Travel to project sites and client locations as required.
- May be required to work additional hours to meet project deadlines.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Accuracy and quality of engineering designs.
- Compliance with engineering standards and specifications.
- On-time completion of engineering deliverables.
- Reduction of design errors and rework.
- Successful project execution and commissioning support.
- Client satisfaction and stakeholder feedback.
- Continuous improvement and innovation contributions.