Lead Electrical Design Engineer - Renewables

Placements24; Stellenbosch Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,300,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Design Engineer for our client in Paarl, Western Cape, to lead electrical design for utility-scale solar PV and battery storage projects. You will oversee the full design lifecycle, from concept to commissioning, and mentor a team of engineers and drafters.

The role requires a Bachelors in Electrical Engineering, 7+ years in electrical design with renewables, strong knowledge of AC/DC systems, grid interconnection, and relevant software (AutoCAD

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in electrical design; 5+ years in renewable energy (solar PV, storage).
• Experience leading design teams and managing deliverables.
• Knowledge of AC/DC systems, grid interconnection, protection schemes.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP, PSS/E.
• Experience with MV/HV systems.
• Pr Eng registration desirable with ECSA.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of renewable energy projects, including solar PV and energy storage.
• Develop and review single-line diagrams, schematics, and wiring layouts.
• Specify equipment such as inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cabling.
• Perform electrical studies (load flow, short circuit, protection coordination).
• Ensure designs comply with IEC/IEEE codes and client specs.
• Mentor and manage a design team of engineers and drafters.
• Provide technical support during procurement, construction, and commissioning.
• Collaborate with project managers, civil engineers, procurement, and construction teams.
• Stay current with design best practices and renewable energy technologies.
• Review design documentation from third-party consultants or contractors.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Pr. Eng registration desirable with ECSA

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

ETAP

PSS/E

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent developer of renewable energy projects, is seeking an experienced Lead Electrical Design Engineer for their Paarl, Western Cape office. This role is crucial for leading the electrical design aspects of utility-scale solar PV and battery storage projects. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire design lifecycle, from conceptualization and detailed engineering to supporting construction and commissioning. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical engineering, specifically within the renewable energy sector, with proven experience in managing design teams and complex projects. This is a key position within a growing organization committed to driving the transition to sustainable energy solutions in South Africa. You will play a vital role in shaping the future of clean energy infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of renewable energy projects, including solar farms and energy storage systems.
• Develop and review electrical single-line diagrams, schematics, and wiring layouts.
• Specify electrical equipment, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cabling.
• Conduct electrical studies, such as load flow, short circuit, and protection coordination.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant national and international electrical codes, standards (e.g., IEC, IEEE), and client specifications.
• Manage and mentor a team of electrical design engineers and drafters, ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, civil engineers, procurement, and construction teams.
• Provide technical support during the procurement, construction, and commissioning phases of projects in Paarl.
• Stay current with the latest technological advancements and design best practices in the renewable energy field.
• Review and approve design documentation submitted by third-party consultants or contractors.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in electrical design engineering, with at least 5 years dedicated to renewable energy projects (solar PV, battery storage).
• Proven experience in leading electrical design teams and managing project deliverables.
• In-depth knowledge of AC/DC systems, power electronics, grid interconnection standards, and protection schemes.
• Proficiency with electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP, PSS/E).
• Experience with medium and high-voltage systems.
• Strong understanding of safety principles and risk management in electrical design.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and comfortable working in Paarl.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings plan.
• Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Be part of impactful projects contributing to a sustainable energy future.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment within the Western Cape region.
• Potential for international project exposure.