Electrical Design Engineer - Renewable Energy

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, South Africa is seeking an experienced Electrical Design Engineer to join our growing renewable energy team. You will design electrical systems for solar PV plants and BESS, develop schematics and control logic, and perform load flow, short-circuit, and grounding analyses to meet interconnection standards.

You will specify equipment, prepare BOM and documentation, liaise with clients and grid operators, and assist with site assessments, procurement, and commissioning in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 4–6 years in electrical design, with at least 2 years in renewables (solar PV or BESS).
• Proficiency with CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit) and ETAP/PSS/E.
• Knowledge of South African regulations and grid connection standards.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer electrical systems for solar PV and BESS projects.
• Develop single-line diagrams, wiring diagrams, and control logic.
• Perform load flow, short-circuit, and grounding analyses.
• Specify equipment and prepare BOM and project documentation.
• Coordinate with clients, grid operators, and stakeholders to meet interconnection standards.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies; support procurement, installation and commissioning.

Skills

Power systems engineering

Renewable energy domain

Analytical problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

ETAP

PSS/E

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering company in the renewable energy sector, is seeking an experienced Electrical Design Engineer to join their growing team based in Paarl, Western Cape . This role focuses on the electrical design aspects of solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS) for utility-scale and distributed generation projects. You will be responsible for developing innovative and efficient electrical designs, ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and regulations. This hybrid position allows for a balance of on-site design work, site visits, and remote collaboration, offering flexibility to the successful candidate. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in power systems engineering, specifically within the renewable energy domain. You will work closely with project development, construction, and operations teams to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the sustainable energy transition and build a career in a dynamic and rapidly expanding industry within the Paarl, Western Cape area. We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented engineer who is passionate about clean energy.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer electrical systems for solar PV plants and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
• Develop single-line diagrams, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control logic.
• Perform load flow analysis, short circuit calculations, and grounding design for renewable energy projects.
• Select and specify electrical equipment, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, cables, and protection devices.
• Prepare technical specifications, Bill of Materials (BOM), and project documentation.
• Liaise with clients, grid operators, and other stakeholders to ensure design requirements and grid interconnection standards are met.
• Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies for potential projects.
• Support the procurement, installation, and commissioning phases of projects, providing technical guidance.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant South African and international electrical codes and standards.
• Stay updated on the latest technologies and trends in the renewable energy sector.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in electrical design, with at least 2 years focused on renewable energy projects (solar PV and/or BESS).
• Proficiency with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and electrical design tools (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E).
• Solid understanding of power electronics, grid interconnection requirements, and power system protection principles.
• Experience with battery energy storage systems is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of relevant South African regulations and standards for electrical installations and grid connection.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, managing time between office and remote tasks.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) or ECSA registration is a strong advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. This hybrid role provides excellent flexibility for work-life balance. You will have opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement within the rapidly growing renewable energy sector in the Paarl, Western Cape region. Join a passionate and innovative team dedicated to driving the clean energy transition in South Africa.