Lead Electrical Design Engineer - Renewable Energy

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

International travel for training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Design Engineer in Cape Town, Western Cape, to oversee large-scale solar and wind projects from concept to completion. You will lead the electrical design efforts, collaborate with civil, project management, and procurement teams, and ensure performance and compliance.

Ideal candidate has 10+ years in electrical engineering with 5+ years in renewable energy project design, strong leadership, and proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical, PSS/E, ETAP, and

Qualifications

• B.Sc. or B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant electrical engineering experience, with at least 5 years in renewable energy project design.
• Proven leadership with experience managing engineering teams and projects.
• Proficiency in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, PSS/E, ETAP, Helioscope).
• Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design for utility-scale solar and wind projects.
• Develop detailed electrical system designs including single-line diagrams, schematics, and equipment specs.
• Perform power system studies such as load flow, fault analysis, and harmonic distortion.
• Oversee the electrical design team, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Coordinate with consultants, vendors, and regulators for compliance and approvals in Cape Town.
• Review drawings, calculations, and documentation prepared by the team.
• Develop and implement quality control procedures for electrical designs and installations.
• Perform site visits for design verification, construction support, and commissioning assistance.
• Stay current with advancements in renewable energy technologies and standards.

Skills

Leadership

Renewable energy experience

Project management

Electrical design proficiency

Communication

Education

B.Sc. or B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

PSS/E

ETAP

Helioscope

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent firm in the renewable energy sector, is actively seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Electrical Design Engineer for their operations in Cape Town , Western Cape . This is a pivotal role for an individual passionate about sustainable energy solutions and experienced in leading design projects from conception to completion. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the electrical design aspects of large-scale solar and wind projects, ensuring optimal performance and compliance. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including civil engineers, project managers, and procurement specialists, to deliver cutting-edge renewable energy infrastructure. This is a fantastic opportunity for a seasoned engineer to make a significant contribution to the green energy transition within the vibrant economic hub of Cape Town , driving innovation and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for utility-scale renewable energy projects (solar PV, wind farms).
• Develop detailed electrical system designs, including single-line diagrams, schematics, and equipment specifications for inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cabling.
• Conduct and oversee power system studies, such as load flow, fault analysis, and harmonic distortion, to ensure system stability and reliability.
• Manage the electrical design team, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Coordinate with external consultants, vendors, and regulatory bodies to ensure design compliance and obtain necessary approvals for projects in Cape Town .
• Review and approve electrical drawings, calculations, and technical documentation prepared by the team.
• Develop and implement quality control procedures for electrical designs and installations.
• Perform site visits for design verification, construction supervision support, and commissioning assistance.
• Stay current with advancements in renewable energy technologies, electrical engineering standards, and best practices.
• Contribute to project planning, budgeting, and risk assessment related to electrical design elements.

Requirements

• B.Sc. or B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering from a recognized institution.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years focused on renewable energy project design (solar or wind).
• Demonstrated experience in a lead or supervisory role managing engineering teams and projects.
• Proficiency in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, PSS/E, ETAP, Helioscope).
• Strong understanding of AC/DC systems, power electronics, grid interconnection requirements, and protection schemes.
• Excellent knowledge of relevant national and international standards and codes for renewable energy systems.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to Cape Town , Western Cape .

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, a comprehensive health insurance plan, and a generous retirement fund contribution.
• Opportunities for international travel for training and conferences may be available.

You will be part of a forward-thinking company contributing significantly to the growth of renewable energy in South Africa. We also provide a supportive work environment that fosters innovation and personal growth, based in beautiful Cape Town .