Lead Electrical Design Engineer - Smart Grids

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Design Engineer specializing in Smart Grids to drive the design and implementation of advanced grid technologies from anywhere in South Africa. You will lead the conception and development of smart grid solutions, overseeing design processes and collaborating with a global team of experts.

If you have a passion for cutting-edge technology and a proven track record in electrical design for modern power systems, this remote position offers an exceptional

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with focus on Power Systems.
• 9+ years in electrical engineering, 5+ years in smart grid.
• Understanding of IEC 61850 and DNP3.
• Experience in distribution automation and AMI.
• Strong cybersecurity for critical infrastructure.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• PE or CEng status highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of smart grid technologies including AMI and distribution automation.
• Develop system architecture, specifications, and detailed design documentation for smart grid projects.
• Perform power system analyses: load flow, fault studies, protection coordination.
• Oversee and mentor a team of electrical engineers and designers.
• Collaborate with project managers, software engineers, and stakeholders to ensure delivery.
• Ensure designs comply with standards and cybersecurity requirements.
• Evaluate hardware and software components for smart grid applications.
• Provide technical leadership from concept to commissioning.
• Stay current with trends in smart grids, IoT, and grid modernization.
• Contribute to best practices and standardized design procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Electrical design

Grid modernization

Project management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Job description

About the Role

Shape the future of energy infrastructure! Our client is seeking a Lead Electrical Design Engineer specializing in Smart Grids to join their innovative, fully remote team. This role is pivotal in the design and implementation of advanced grid technologies that enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of power distribution networks. You will lead the conceptualization and development of smart grid solutions, overseeing design processes and collaborating with a global team of experts. If you have a passion for cutting-edge technology and a proven track record in electrical design for modern power systems, this remote position offers an exceptional opportunity to drive impactful change in the energy sector from anywhere in South Africa . Your leadership will be key to developing next-generation grid solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of smart grid technologies, including advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), distribution automation, and demand response systems.
• Develop system architecture, technical specifications, and detailed design documentation for smart grid projects.
• Perform complex power system analyses related to grid modernization, including load flow, fault studies, and protection coordination.
• Oversee and mentor a team of electrical engineers and designers in the execution of smart grid projects.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, software engineers, and stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant industry standards, cybersecurity requirements, and utility specifications.
• Evaluate and select appropriate hardware and software components for smart grid applications.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance throughout the project lifecycle, from concept to commissioning.
• Stay current with emerging trends and technologies in smart grids, IoT, and grid modernization.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and standardized design procedures for smart grid solutions.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Power Systems or related field.
• A minimum of 9 years of experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years dedicated to smart grid technologies and power distribution systems.
• In-depth understanding of smart grid concepts, components, and communication protocols (e.g., IEC 61850, DNP3).
• Proven experience in designing and implementing distribution automation and AMI solutions.
• Proficiency in power system analysis software and simulation tools.
• Strong knowledge of cybersecurity principles as applied to critical infrastructure.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing engineering teams and projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and collaboration skills, essential for leading remote teams.
• Registered Professional Engineer (PE) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status is highly desirable.

Benefits

• This Lead Engineer role offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement planning, and performance bonuses.
• As a fully remote position, you will enjoy significant flexibility and the ability to work from your chosen location within South Africa.
• Our client fosters a culture of innovation and provides ample opportunities for professional growth, training, and attending industry conferences.
• This role near Randburg, Gauteng allows you to be at the forefront of smart grid development.