Electrical Design Engineer - Solar PV Systems

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Electrical Design Engineer focused on solar PV systems for our Soweto, Gauteng office. You will design and optimize electrical layouts for residential, commercial, and industrial solar installations, producing detailed drawings and component specs to ensure safe energy generation.

The ideal candidate holds a National Diploma or B.Eng in Electrical Engineering with at least 3 years in electrical design, particularly solar PV.

Qualifications

• National Diploma or B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering.
• At least 3 years in electrical design, preferably solar PV.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, PVSyst.
• Familiar with SA regulations for distributed generation.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical systems for solar PV installations, including sizing and connections.
• Create CAD drawings, schematics, and single-line diagrams.
• Select PV components such as panels, inverters, mounting structures, and BOS.
• Perform electrical calculations: energy estimates, cable sizing, protection.
• Ensure designs comply with SANS, IEC, and safety standards.
• Coordinate with clients, project managers, and installation teams.
• Support tender reviews and proposals for solar projects.
• Provide technical support during installation and commissioning.
• Stay updated on solar PV tech and best practices.
• Contribute to design process improvements.

Skills

Electrical design

AutoCAD

PVSyst

Grid connection standards

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

National Diploma or B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

PVSyst

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing firm specializing in renewable energy solutions, is seeking a motivated Electrical Design Engineer with a focus on Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems for their **Soweto, Gauteng** office. This role is critical in designing and optimizing solar power installations for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. You will be responsible for creating detailed electrical designs, single-line diagrams, and component specifications that ensure efficient and safe energy generation. The ideal candidate will have a passion for renewable energy and a solid understanding of electrical principles as applied to solar PV technology. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the expansion of clean energy within **South Africa** and build a career in a burgeoning industry. We are looking for a detail-oriented engineer ready to make a tangible impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Design electrical systems for solar PV installations, including system sizing, string configurations, and AC/DC connections.
• Produce detailed electrical drawings, schematics, and single-line diagrams using CAD software.
• Select appropriate solar PV components such as solar panels, inverters, mounting structures, and balance of system components.
• Perform electrical calculations, including energy production estimates, cable sizing, and protection requirements.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant electrical codes, standards (e.g., SANS, IEC), and safety regulations.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and installation teams to ensure design intent is met.
• Assist in the technical review of proposals and tender documents for solar projects.
• Provide technical support during the installation and commissioning phases of solar PV systems.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in solar PV technology and industry best practices.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and standards within the company.

Requirements

• National Diploma or B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in electrical design, with specific experience in solar PV systems highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of electrical principles and their application to solar energy systems.
• Proficiency in using electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, PVSyst).
• Familiarity with South African electrical regulations and grid connection standards for distributed generation.
• Knowledge of inverter technology, battery storage systems, and grid interconnection is advantageous.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment in **Soweto**.
• Eager to learn and adapt in the dynamic renewable energy sector.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and opportunities for performance-based increases.
• Exposure to a variety of solar PV projects across different scales.
• Opportunity to contribute to the growth of renewable energy in **South Africa**.
• Training and professional development in solar technology.
• A collaborative and supportive team culture.
• Work in the vibrant **Soweto** area.