Electrical Distribution Engineer - Utilities

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Company vehicle or travel allowance

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Electrical Distribution Engineer to design, plan, operate and maintain the Bloemfontein distribution network, ensuring reliable power supply and regulatory compliance.

You will analyze performance, lead network upgrades, coordinate with planning and operations, and stay abreast of smart grid tech, SCADA and protection schemes. Pr.Eng is desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering is required.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in electrical power distribution systems engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of distribution network design, operation and protection principles.
• Experience with distribution network analysis software (PowerFactory, CYME).
• Familiarity with SA regulations and standards for electrical utilities.
• Understanding of SCADA systems in distribution networks.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and plan upgrades and extensions to the electrical distribution network (medium and low voltage).
• Analyze load data, performance metrics, and fault records to identify improvements and investments.
• Develop technical specifications for new equipment and infrastructure projects.
• Ensure compliance with electrical codes and utility regulations.
• Oversee execution of distribution network projects with internal teams and external contractors.
• Investigate and resolve complex issues related to power quality and network stability.
• Develop strategies for network optimization, loss reduction and asset management.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new connections and infrastructure developments.
• Collaborate with planning, operations and protection engineers to ensure system integrity.
• Prepare technical reports, justifications and recommendations for management.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PowerFactory

CYME

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major utility provider serving the Bloemfontein region, is actively seeking a skilled Electrical Distribution Engineer to join their network operations team. This critical role involves the design, planning, operation, and maintenance of the electrical distribution network, ensuring a reliable and efficient power supply to customers. You will be responsible for analyzing network performance, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing solutions to enhance grid stability and capacity. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of distribution system principles, regulatory requirements, and modern grid technologies. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on essential infrastructure and advance your career within a stable and respected organization. Join a team dedicated to powering the Free State province.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and plan upgrades and extensions to the electrical distribution network (medium and low voltage).
• Analyze network load data, performance metrics, and fault records to identify areas for improvement and investment.
• Develop technical specifications for new equipment and infrastructure projects.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant electrical codes, standards (e.g., SANS), and utility regulations.
• Oversee the execution of distribution network projects, coordinating with internal teams and external contractors.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical issues related to power quality, outages, and network stability.
• Develop and implement strategies for network optimization, loss reduction, and asset management.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new connection requests and infrastructure developments.
• Collaborate with planning, operations, and protection engineers to ensure system integrity.
• Prepare technical reports, justifications, and recommendations for management.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in smart grid, distributed generation, and network automation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in electrical power distribution systems engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of distribution network design, operation, and protection principles.
• Experience with distribution network analysis software (e.g., PowerFactory, CYME).
• Familiarity with relevant South African regulations and standards for electrical utilities.
• Understanding of SCADA systems and their application in distribution networks.
• Proven ability to manage projects and coordinate with stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple priorities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund.
• Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Stable and secure employment with a leading utility company in Bloemfontein.
• Challenging work on essential infrastructure projects.
• Company-provided vehicle or travel allowance.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave benefits.
• Contribution to the reliable power supply of the region.