Electrical Distribution Systems Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits

Professional development

Diverse projects

Stable work environment

Career growth

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Stellenbosch, Western Cape seeks an experienced Electrical Distribution Systems Engineer to plan, design, operate, and maintain electrical distribution networks. You will ensure safe, reliable delivery of electricity, manage assets, and oversee capital projects.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in distribution systems, strong knowledge of network design and protection schemes, and experience with CYME/ETAP.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in electrical distribution systems engineering.
• Strong knowledge of distribution network design, operation, and maintenance principles.
• Experience with distribution system analysis software such as CYME or ETAP Distribution.
• Understanding of distribution protection schemes including relays and fuses.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and their application in distribution networks.
• Knowledge of relevant SANS standards and utility best practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical distribution system upgrades and extensions (overhead and underground lines, substations, equipment).
• Perform load forecasting and network analysis to ensure capacity and reliability.
• Develop and implement distribution protection strategies and coordination studies.
• Manage lifecycle of distribution assets, including health assessments and replacement planning.
• Oversee capital improvement projects from feasibility to commissioning.
• Ensure compliance with electrical codes, standards and regulatory requirements.
• Investigate power quality issues and implement performance improvements.
• Respond to and manage system emergencies and outages.
• Collaborate with regulatory bodies, customers, and internal departments.

Skills

Distribution system design

Protection schemes

SCADA familiarity

Load forecasting

Project management

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

CYME

ETAP Distribution

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking an experienced Electrical Distribution Systems Engineer to be based in the scenic town of Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This vital role focuses on the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of electrical distribution networks. You will be responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient delivery of electricity to customers, managing network assets, and overseeing capital improvement projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of distribution system components, protection schemes, load management, and regulatory compliance. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned engineer to contribute to the critical infrastructure supporting a vibrant community and growing region. Our client is committed to maintaining a robust and modern electrical network. The role requires a proactive and analytical engineer dedicated to excellence in power distribution engineering within Stellenbosch.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical distribution system upgrades and extensions, including overhead and underground lines, substations, and associated equipment.
• Perform load forecasting and network analysis to ensure system capacity and reliability.
• Develop and implement distribution system protection strategies and coordination studies.
• Manage the lifecycle of distribution assets, including asset health assessments and replacement planning.
• Oversee the execution of capital improvement projects, from feasibility studies through to commissioning.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant electrical codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Investigate power quality issues and implement solutions to improve system performance.
• Respond to and manage system emergencies and outages.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, customers, and internal departments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in electrical distribution systems engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of distribution network design, operation, and maintenance principles.
• Experience with distribution system analysis software (e.g., CYME, ETAP Distribution).
• Understanding of distribution protection schemes, including relays and fuses.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and their application in distribution networks.
• Knowledge of relevant SANS standards and utility best practices.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging distribution system projects.
• A stable and supportive work environment.
• Contribution to the reliability and advancement of essential infrastructure.
• Potential for career growth within the organization.