Lead Electrical Engineer - Grid Integration

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Aid

Provident Fund

Life Insurance

Professional Development

Relocation Assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Electrical Engineer in South Africa to head grid integration initiatives from the vibrant Tembisa, Gauteng region. You will drive renewable energy integration, protect schemes, and advanced grid technologies while ensuring reliability and efficiency of the nation’s power grid.

You will lead a skilled team, develop technical specifications, and liaise with IPPs and regulators to meet grid connection requirements.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in electrical engineering with focus on power system planning, grid integration, and protection.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, planning, and implementation of electrical systems for grid integration projects, focusing on renewable energy sources.
• Develop and review technical specifications, drawings, and protection settings for substation and grid connection equipment.
• Conduct power system studies (load flow, short circuit, stability, harmonics) to ensure reliability and compliance.
• Collaborate with internal departments and external stakeholders on grid connection requirements.
• Mentor a team of engineers and oversee complex projects.
• Oversee commissioning and testing of grid infrastructure and ensure safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Skills

Power Systems

Grid Integration

Protection Schemes

Leadership

Stakeholder Management

Education

Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent energy utility provider, is looking for an experienced Lead Electrical Engineer to spearhead their grid integration initiatives in Tembisa, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves overseeing the technical aspects of integrating renewable energy sources and advanced grid technologies into the existing power infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in power systems engineering, grid stability, and protection schemes. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of South Africa's energy grid, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and sustainability. You will be at the forefront of technological advancements in the energy sector, working within a highly skilled and collaborative team dedicated to powering the nation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, planning, and implementation of electrical systems for grid integration projects, focusing on renewable energy sources.
• Develop and review technical specifications, engineering drawings, and protection settings for substation and grid connection equipment.
• Conduct advanced power system studies, including load flow, short circuit, stability, and harmonic analysis, to ensure grid reliability and compliance.
• Collaborate with internal departments and external stakeholders, including IPPs and regulatory bodies, on grid connection agreements and technical requirements.
• Manage and mentor a team of electrical engineers and technical staff, providing guidance and oversight on complex projects.
• Oversee the commissioning and testing of newly installed grid infrastructure, ensuring adherence to performance standards.
• Stay abreast of emerging grid technologies, industry best practices, and regulatory changes impacting grid integration.
• Prepare technical reports, present findings to management, and contribute to strategic planning for grid modernization.
• Ensure all engineering activities are conducted in compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with a strong focus on power system planning, grid integration, and protection within the energy sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, DIgSILENT PowerFactory).
• In-depth knowledge of grid codes, international standards (IEEE, IEC), and utility practices for renewable energy integration.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex technical projects.
• Strong understanding of substation design, protection relays, SCADA systems, and FACTS devices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is mandatory.

Benefits

• Our client provides an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, alongside annual performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and life insurance are included.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance, are readily available.
• The company fosters a collaborative work environment and offers pathways for career progression.
• You’ll have the chance to work on high-impact projects that are critical to the nation's energy security and transition.
• Employees also enjoy generous leave allowances and access to employee wellness programs, promoting a balanced professional life.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.