Electrical Engineer - Power Distribution & Grid Integration

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an Electrical Engineer for a utility provider in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role focuses on planning, design, and implementation of electrical distribution networks with emphasis on grid integration of renewable energy sources.

You will work on protection schemes, SCADA, and network studies, while contributing to asset management and regulatory compliance in a hybrid work setting. A Pr Eng or equivalent is preferred and extensive experience is required.

Qualifications

• BEng/BSc in Electrical Engineering required.
• Minimum 7 years in electrical power distribution engineering.
• Experience with grid integration of renewables is highly advantageous.
• Professional registration with ECSA as Pr Eng or equivalent preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer electrical distribution systems including substations, overhead lines and cables.
• Conduct power flow, short circuit, and stability studies for distribution networks.
• Develop protection coordination strategies for the grid.
• Integrate distributed generation (e.g., solar PV) into the network.
• Manage capital projects related to network upgrades and extensions.
• Provide technical support to field operations and customer service.
• Prepare technical reports and project documentation.

Skills

Power systems analysis

Protection coordination

Renewable energy integration

SCADA systems

Project management

Education

BEng/BSc Electrical Engineering

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

DigSilent PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key utility provider in the Western Cape, is seeking a dedicated Electrical Engineer specializing in Power Distribution and Grid Integration to join their team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role is crucial for the planning, design, and implementation of electrical distribution networks, ensuring reliable power supply and seamless integration of new energy sources. You will be involved in network studies, asset management, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of distribution system operations, protection schemes, and modern grid technologies. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding career path, contributing to the stability and modernization of the region's electricity infrastructure. The hybrid work model allows for a balance between collaborative office work and focused remote tasks, based in the scenic Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer electrical distribution systems, including substations, overhead lines, and underground cables.
• Conduct power flow, short circuit, and stability studies for distribution networks.
• Develop and implement protection coordination strategies for the grid.
• Evaluate and integrate distributed generation (e.g., solar PV) into the existing network.
• Manage capital projects related to network upgrades and extensions.
• Perform technical assessments of electrical equipment and assets.
• Ensure designs and operations comply with SANS, NRS, and other relevant South African standards.
• Provide technical support to field operations and customer service departments.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and industry best practices in power distribution and grid modernization.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and project documentation.

Requirements

• BEng/BSc in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in electrical power distribution engineering.
• Proven experience with power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, DigSilent PowerFactory).
• Strong knowledge of distribution network design, protection systems, and SCADA.
• Experience with grid integration of renewable energy sources is a significant advantage.
• Professional registration with ECSA as a Pr Eng or similar is highly preferred.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in both team and independent settings.
• Familiarity with asset management principles for power utilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and annual performance bonuses.
• Access to professional development programs, training, and opportunities to attend industry conferences.
• A flexible hybrid work arrangement promotes work-life balance.
• You will be part of a vital organization responsible for powering communities in the beautiful region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape.