Lead Electrical Design Engineer - Smart Grids

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work from anywhere in SA

Competitive salary and bonus

Professional development opportunities

Comprehensive health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Design Engineer to drive smart grid projects from a remote location in South Africa. You will conceptualize, design, and implement advanced electrical systems for distribution automation, DER integration, and energy storage, guiding project teams and collaborating with utilities.

The role demands a master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering and 10+ years in power systems with strong leadership, cybersecurity awareness, and experience with PSS/E, ETAP, and

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Power Systems or Smart Grids.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in electrical power systems engineering with smart grid focus.
• Experience designing distribution automation, microgrids, or DER integration projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex electrical systems for smart grid applications.
• Develop strategies for integrating distributed energy resources (DERs) and energy storage.
• Design distribution automation and control schemes, including SCADA and communications.
• Perform advanced power system analysis: stability, load flow, fault studies.
• Specify and select key components for smart grid deployments (meters, reclosers, automation).
• Ensure designs comply with standards and cybersecurity requirements.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers.
• Collaborate with utilities, technology providers, and regulators.
• Oversee testing, commissioning, and validation of smart grid systems.

Skills

Power systems

Smart grids

DER integration

Leadership

Project management

SCADA

Cybersecurity

Analytical thinking

Communication

Remote work

Education

Master's/PhD in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems/Smart Grids)

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

CYME

SCADA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of modernizing energy infrastructure and is seeking a highly experienced Lead Electrical Design Engineer to spearhead their initiatives in smart grid technologies. This is a fully remote position, offering you the opportunity to work from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for the conceptualization, design, and implementation of advanced electrical systems for smart grids, including distribution automation, renewable energy integration, and energy storage solutions. Your expertise will guide project development and ensure the successful deployment of innovative grid technologies. We embrace a remote-first culture, fostering collaboration and leveraging technology to achieve outstanding results. If you are a visionary leader with a deep understanding of power systems and a passion for smart grid development, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of energy in Upington and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex electrical systems for smart grid applications.
• Develop strategies for integrating distributed energy resources (DERs) and energy storage systems into the grid.
• Design distribution automation and control schemes, including SCADA and communication networks.
• Perform advanced power system analysis, including stability, load flow, and fault studies.
• Specify and select key components for smart grid deployments (e.g., smart meters, reclosers, substation automation equipment).
• Ensure designs comply with national and international standards for smart grids and cybersecurity.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, including utilities, technology providers, and regulatory bodies.
• Oversee the testing, commissioning, and validation of smart grid systems.Stay abreast of emerging smart grid technologies, trends, and best practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems or Smart Grids.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in electrical power systems engineering, with a significant focus on smart grid technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing distribution automation, microgrids, or DER integration projects.
• Expertise in power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, CYME) and grid modeling tools.
• Strong understanding of SCADA systems, communication protocols (e.g., DNP3, IEC 61850), and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure.
• Proven leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, adept at remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and drive complex projects to completion.
• Eligibility to work remotely within South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional remote work opportunity with a highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Enjoy a flexible work environment and the ability to shape your own schedule while contributing to groundbreaking energy projects.
• We provide extensive opportunities for professional development, including access to cutting-edge training, conferences, and research.
• Comprehensive health benefits and generous paid time off are included.
• Join a passionate team dedicated to transforming the energy landscape and making a sustainable impact from your home office, anywhere in South Africa.
• This role offers the chance to influence projects in key areas like Upington and contribute to the evolution of the national grid.