Electrical Design Engineer - Renewable Energy Projects

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote contractor role

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Electrical Design Engineer to support renewable energy projects remotely, focusing on East London and broader SA regions.

You will design AC/DC systems, prepare schematics, perform power system studies, and select equipment for solar and wind projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering required.
• 3–5 years of experience in electrical design for renewable energy projects (solar PV, wind).
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical, Revit MEP) and power system analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of grid interconnection requirements for renewable energy facilities.
• Knowledge of power electronics, BESS, and microgrid concepts is a plus.
• Familiarity with South African electrical regulations and standards (SA).
• Excellent analytical and communication skills; ability to work remotely with multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop electrical designs for renewable energy projects including AC/DC systems and grid interconnection.
• Produce detailed electrical drawings and wiring layouts using CAD software.
• Perform power system studies: load flow, short circuit, grounding analyses.
• Specify electrical equipment such as inverters, transformers, switchgear, protection relays.
• Ensure designs comply with IEC, IEEE, SANS and local grid codes.
• Collaborate with project managers, civil engineers, and external stakeholders.
• Provide technical reviews and support during procurement and construction.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Independent working

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

Revit MEP

Power systems analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing developer of renewable energy solutions, is seeking a skilled Electrical Design Engineer to join their project team. This role is remote, with a focus on supporting projects within the East London, Eastern Cape, ZA area and beyond. You will be responsible for the electrical design aspects of utility-scale solar and wind power projects, from conceptual design through to detailed engineering. This includes creating electrical schematics, performing system analysis, selecting equipment, and ensuring designs meet all relevant codes and standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in power systems engineering, particularly within the renewable energy sector, and the ability to work effectively in a remote, collaborative setting. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the clean energy transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop electrical designs for renewable energy projects, including AC/DC systems, grid interconnection, and balance of plant components.
• Prepare detailed electrical drawings, single-line diagrams, schematics, and wiring layouts using CAD software.
• Perform power system studies, including load flow, short circuit, and grounding analysis for project sites.
• Specify electrical equipment such as inverters, transformers, switchgear, and protection relays.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant industry standards (IEC, IEEE, SANS) and local grid codes.
• Collaborate with project managers, civil engineers, and external stakeholders to integrate electrical designs into overall project plans.
• Conduct technical reviews of designs and provide support during the procurement and construction phases.
• Troubleshoot electrical design issues and propose effective solutions.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in renewable energy electrical design.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in electrical design, with a significant focus on renewable energy projects (solar PV, wind).
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, Revit MEP) and power system analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of grid interconnection requirements and challenges for renewable energy facilities.
• Knowledge of power electronics, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and microgrid concepts is a plus.
• Familiarity with relevant South African electrical regulations and standards.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote environment.
• Registration with ECSA as a Professional Engineer or Technologist is advantageous.

Benefits

This remote contractor position offers a competitive remuneration package, providing flexibility and autonomy. You will gain valuable experience working on diverse and impactful renewable energy projects. Our client provides a dynamic and supportive virtual work environment, fostering collaboration and professional growth. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the growth of sustainable energy in South Africa, particularly supporting developments in the Eastern Cape region.