Head of Project Engineering – Solar PV and BESS – Cape Town

AltGen; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 1 000 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Head of Project Engineering to spearhead innovative Solar PV and BESS projects. In this pivotal role, you will lead a dynamic team, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards while overseeing the design and commissioning phases. Your expertise in electrical design engineering and grid connection will be essential for driving the company’s growth and adopting cutting-edge technologies. Join a forward-thinking firm that values collaboration and innovation, where your contributions will significantly impact renewable energy initiatives and shape a sustainable future.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in Electrical Design Engineering with a focus on renewable energy.
• Expertise in MV design and grid connection compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing engineering team and manage project design oversight.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and maintain quality control.

Skills

Team Motivation

Decision Making Under Pressure

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Engineering Software

Job description

Head of Project Engineering – Solar PV and BESS – Cape Town

We’re hiring an experienced Head of Project Engineering to lead a team in a leading IPP that specializes in Solar PV and BESS.

This role requires someone with strong Solar PV or BESS project leadership experience. You will play a key role in the company’s expansion by leading and managing the project design team and overseeing all aspects of the design and commissioning phases. Expertise in electrical design engineering and experience in grid connection is crucial, as you’ll be responsible for ensuring projects meet all regulatory and grid code compliance requirements. You will also be essential in developing long-term engineering strategies to support the company’s growth plans, including scaling design capabilities and adopting emerging technologies.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in Electrical Design Engineering, with a focus on renewable energy projects (Solar PV and BESS) in the C&I sector
• Expertise in MV design and grid connection, including grid impact studies and ensuring grid code compliance
• Proven experience in leading and managing engineering teams on renewable energy projects
• Demonstrated understanding of project management principles, specifically in the Solar PV and BESS C&I sectors
• Proficiency in relevant engineering software and tools

Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Management:

• Build and lead a high-performing engineering team
• Foster a collaborative, results-oriented, and motivated team environment aligned with the business's values
• Provide technical mentorship, particularly in electrical design engineering, while maintaining a working knowledge of mechanical systems

Project Design Oversight:

• Oversee all design aspects of projects from system configuration and planning through generation of drawing packs, commissioning checklists, permissions and required signoffs
• Ensure projects adhere to relevant regulations, safety standards, and environmental guidelines
• Implement and maintain rigorous quality control procedures for engineering deliverables
• Lead the development and implementation of engineering processes, systems, and procedures to ensure efficiency, quality, and safety across all projects
• Oversee and ensure compliance with grid connection requirements, including grid impact studies and grid code compliance

Technical Expertise:

• Demonstrate strong knowledge and experience in Medium Voltage (MV) design
• Familiar with EMT studies and power flow assessments

Stakeholder Management:

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers, Head of Construction, clients and other stakeholders to ensure seamless project delivery
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities

Financial and Resource Management:

• Contribute to project budget development and ensure engineering activities are delivered within budget
• Optimise resource allocation within the engineering team to maximise efficiency
• Oversee procurement of electrical and mechanical components, collaborating with the Procurement & Logistics Officer

Reporting:

• Prepare and deliver regular reports on engineering progress, risks, and issues to senior management
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project documentation related to engineering activities

Skills

• Ability to motivate the team to achieve project deadlines
• Able to make decisions under pressure with a high attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills