Head of Engineering - Renewable Energy (EPCM)

Pty; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company in Cape Town seeks a Head of Engineering to lead the engineering team, manage budgets, and drive innovation. Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, at least 9 years of experience, and strong leadership skills. The role involves overseeing engineering projects, representing the company at industry events, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum 9 years' relevant engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Background in solar power, manufacturing, or engineering environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and modelling of energy storage and micro-grid solutions.
• Represent the company at industry conferences and events.
• Clearly communicate company and departmental goals to all engineering staff.
• Participate in management and executive meetings, contributing to strategic decision-making.
• Supervise all phases of engineering projects, ensuring timely and successful delivery.

Skills

Strong communication, interpersonal, and management skills

Proficient in Helioscope, PVSyst, PV Sol, AutoCAD, MS Word, Excel, and MS Projects

Excellent attention to detail, deadline-driven, and solutions-oriented

Strong analytical and innovative approach

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (BEng)

Professional registration (Pr Eng with ECSA)

Postgraduate qualification in engineering or solar energy

Job description

Introduction

The Head of Engineering is responsible for leading the engineering team, managing departmental budgets, driving product and process improvements, and providing strategic guidance to senior management. This position ensures technical excellence, continuous innovation, and operational efficiency across all engineering functions.

Duties & Responsibilities

Technology & Innovation

• Lead the design and modelling of energy storage and micro-grid solutions.

• Plan and implement new applications or modifications to enhance product and system performance.

• Ensure all designs are completed to specification and align with industry standards.

Market Engagement & Industry Awareness

• Represent the company at industry conferences and events.

• Build and maintain strong networks with relevant stakeholders.

• Monitor industry trends, regulatory changes, and competitor activity.

• Advise senior leadership on emerging developments and strategic opportunities.

Team Management

• Clearly communicate company and departmental goals to all engineering staff.

• Delegate tasks appropriately, considering individual strengths and career aspirations.

• Oversee staff training and the installation of new equipment.

• Implement and monitor quality control processes on all engineering systems and products.

• Develop and document effective maintenance and testing procedures.

Leadership & Strategic Input

• Participate in management and executive meetings, contributing to strategic decision-making.

• Conduct regular performance appraisals and provide constructive feedback to team members.

• Foster a culture of continuous professional development and proactive problem solving.

Project & Energy Engineering

• Supervise all phases of engineering projects, ensuring timely and successful delivery.

• Approve engineering designs and departmental budgets.

• Accurately calculate project costs, resources, and timelines.

• Analyse customer requirements and recommend appropriate technical solutions.

• Evaluate and maintain compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations.

• Prepare detailed technical reports and ensure timely submission.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (BEng) required.

  • Professional registration (Pr Eng with ECSA) strongly preferred.

  • Postgraduate qualification in engineering or solar energy advantageous.

• Experience:

  • Minimum 9 years’ relevant engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

  • Background in solar power, manufacturing, or engineering environments.

• Skills & Knowledge:

  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and management skills.

  • Proficient in Helioscope, PVSyst, PV Sol, AutoCAD, MS Word, Excel, and MS Projects.

  • Excellent attention to detail, deadline-driven, and solutions-oriented.

  • Strong analytical and innovative approach.

Key Attributes

• High level of professionalism and integrity.

• Meticulous and attentive to detail.

• Analytical and able to think critically.

• Deadline and solutions-focused.

• Committed to continuous improvement and team development.