Junior Electrical Engineer - Power Distribution

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Structured training program

Professional registration support (Pr.

Medical aid

Retirement savings

Paid time off

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a Junior Electrical Engineer to join the Power Distribution team in Bloemfontein. This hybrid role targets recent graduates or engineers with 1–2 years of experience, focusing on design, operation, and maintenance of distribution networks.

You will work under experienced engineers, with opportunities for hands-on project exposure, training, and mentorship to accelerate growth within the utility sector.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering required.
• 0-2 years of experience in power systems or electrical distribution engineering.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; good communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and planning of electrical distribution networks (MV and LV).
• Perform load flow, short circuit, and voltage drop calculations using relevant software.
• Support development of protection schemes and settings for distribution equipment.
• Conduct site inspections and assist in commissioning distribution assets.
• Investigate network performance issues and assist in fault analysis.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and drawings.
• Collaborate with senior engineers on project execution and asset management.
• Learn and apply industry standards and safety procedures.
• Participate in standby duties and respond to network emergencies as required.
• Support maintenance and operational teams with technical expertise.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Teamwork

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

DigSilent PowerFactory

ETAP

Job description

About the Role Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking an enthusiastic and driven Junior Electrical Engineer to join their Power Distribution team, operating with a hybrid model from Bloemfontein, Free State . This entry-level position offers an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or an engineer with 1-2 years of experience to gain hands‑on expertise in the design, operation, and maintenance of electrical distribution networks. You will work under the guidance of experienced engineers, assisting with projects related to network planning, load analysis, protection coordination, and fault investigations. This role involves both office-based design work and occasional field visits to substations and distribution lines. The ideal candidate will possess a solid theoretical foundation in electrical engineering principles, a keen analytical mind, and a strong desire to learn and grow within the utility sector. We are committed to providing comprehensive training and mentorship to help you develop into a competent and valuable member of our team. This is a chance to contribute to the reliable delivery of electricity to communities and build a successful career in a vital industry. Your contributions will be instrumental in maintaining and improving our distribution infrastructure. We encourage a proactive and diligent approach to all tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and planning of electrical distribution networks (MV and LV).
• Perform load flow, short circuit, and voltage drop calculations using relevant software.
• Support the development of protection schemes and settings for distribution equipment.
• Conduct site inspections and assist in the commissioning of distribution assets.
• Investigate network performance issues and assist in fault analysis.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and drawings.
• Collaborate with senior engineers on project execution and asset management.
• Learn and apply relevant industry standards and safety procedures.
• Participate in standby duties and respond to network emergencies as required.
• Support the maintenance and operational teams with technical expertise.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• 0-2 years of experience in power systems or electrical distribution engineering.
• Basic understanding of power distribution principles, equipment, and network configurations.
• Familiarity with power system analysis tools (e.g., DigSilent PowerFactory, ETAP) is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for site work.
• Valid driver's license.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

• Competitive starting salary with regular performance assessments.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Structured training program and mentorship from experienced engineers.
• Opportunities for professional development and gaining professional registration (Pr.Eng/Pr.Tech.Eng).
• Exposure to key aspects of the power utility industry.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings contributions.
• Paid time off in accordance with company policy.