Electrical Grid Integration Specialist

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

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Electrical Grid Integration Specialist for its client in Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on ensuring stable integration of renewable energy and other power sources into the regional grid, with emphasis on grid stability and power quality.

You will analyze grid performance, develop interconnection studies, and ensure compliance with grid codes and regulations. Collaboration with developers, IPPs, and internal engineering teams is essential to support South

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with Power Systems specialization.
• At least 6 years of power systems experience focusing on grid integration and renewables.
• Proven experience with grid interconnection studies using PSS/E, ETAP, PowerFactory, or similar.
• PE registration (Pr. Eng.) with ECSA is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Analyze impact of new generation on grid stability, reliability, and power quality.
• Develop and review interconnection studies: load flow, short circuit, and transient stability.
• Define technical requirements for interconnection equipment and systems.
• Ensure compliance with grid codes, standards, and policies.
• Collaborate with IPPs, developers and internal teams.
• Provide guidance on protection, control, and automation for grid integration.
• Troubleshoot grid stability and power quality disturbances.
• Stay informed on evolving grid integration technologies and regulatory changes.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Participate in planning studies for future generation and load growth.

Skills

Power systems

Grid integration

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent utility company serving the Northern Cape region, is seeking an Electrical Grid Integration Specialist for their operations in Upington, Northern Cape . This role is critical in ensuring the stable and reliable integration of various power sources, including renewable energy projects, into the existing electrical grid. You will be responsible for analyzing grid performance, developing interconnection strategies, and ensuring compliance with all relevant grid codes and regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of power systems engineering, with a specific focus on grid stability, power quality, and the technical challenges associated with integrating distributed generation. You will work closely with internal engineering teams, external developers, and regulatory bodies to facilitate the seamless connection of new power generation facilities. This position requires strong analytical skills, a meticulous approach to technical challenges, and the ability to contribute effectively to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the regional power grid. Your expertise will be vital in supporting the growing renewable energy landscape in the area.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze the impact of new generation facilities (especially renewables) on the stability, reliability, and power quality of the electrical grid.
• Develop and review grid interconnection studies, including load flow, short circuit, and transient stability analyses.
• Define technical requirements and specifications for grid interconnection equipment and systems.
• Ensure all interconnection projects comply with national and international grid codes, standards, and utility policies.
• Collaborate with renewable energy developers, Independent Power Producers (IPPs), and internal teams throughout the interconnection process.
• Provide expert technical guidance on power system protection, control, and automation related to grid integration.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to grid stability and power quality disturbances.
• Stay abreast of evolving grid integration technologies, market trends, and regulatory changes.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for stakeholders.
• Participate in planning and system expansion studies to accommodate future generation and load growth.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in power systems engineering, with a significant focus on grid integration and renewable energy.
• Proven experience conducting grid interconnection studies using software like PSS/E, ETAP, PowerFactory, or similar.
• In-depth knowledge of grid codes, utility interconnection standards, and power system protection principles.
• Strong understanding of power electronics, distributed generation technologies, and energy storage systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in technical report writing and data analysis.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Experience working within a utility or regulatory environment is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and further training.
• Be part of critical projects shaping the future of energy in the region.
• A stable and reputable organization with a commitment to energy reliability.
• Generous annual leave and other employee benefits.