Lead Electrical Engineer - Power Systems

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Training & development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a major utility company for a Lead Electrical Engineer - Power Systems in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA. This hybrid role combines on-site technical leadership with remote strategic planning to ensure grid stability and safe integration of renewables.

You will spearhead a team of engineers to design, analyze, and maintain high‑voltage substations, transmission lines, and protection schemes, while mentoring staff and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering; Master's preferred.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in electrical power systems engineering.
• Experience with power system studies (load flow, short circuit, transient stability) using PSS/E, ETAP, or similar.
• Protection schemes and substation design principles knowledge.
• Grid integration of renewable energy is a plus.
• Professional Engineer (PE) registration with ECSA required.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-voltage substation, transmission, and distribution design.
• Perform power flow, short circuit, stability, and protection studies.
• Develop specs for transformers, switchgear, protective relays.
• Oversee commissioning and testing of installations.
• Provide technical guidance to junior engineers.
• Ensure compliance with national and international standards.
• Investigate and resolve complex power system issues.
• Collaborate with project managers and construction teams.
• Develop preventive maintenance strategies for assets.
• Stay updated on renewables integration and grid modernization.

Skills

Power systems engineering

Power system studies

Protection relaying

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree in Power Systems

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major utility company responsible for the electrical infrastructure in the region, is seeking a highly skilled Lead Electrical Engineer - Power Systems for their **Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA** operations. This hybrid role requires a blend of on-site technical oversight and remote strategic planning. You will lead a team of engineers in designing, analysing, and maintaining the integrity of the power grid, substations, and transmission systems. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring grid stability, reliability, and the safe integration of new energy sources. We are looking for a seasoned professional with a strong understanding of power system dynamics, protection, and control.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of high-voltage substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks.
• Perform power flow, short circuit, stability, and protection studies using industry-standard software.
• Develop technical specifications for electrical equipment, including transformers, switchgear, and protective relays.
• Oversee the commissioning and testing of new electrical installations and equipment.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior electrical engineers.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international electrical engineering standards and codes.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical issues related to power system operation.
• Collaborate with project managers, construction teams, and other stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance strategies for power system assets.
• Stay current with advancements in power system technologies, including renewable energy integration and grid modernization.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering; a Master's degree with a specialization in Power Systems is highly preferred.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in electrical power systems engineering, including design, analysis, and operations.
• Demonstrated expertise in power system studies (load flow, short circuit, transient stability) using software like PSS/E, ETAP, or similar.
• Thorough understanding of protective relaying schemes and substation design principles.
• Experience with grid integration of renewable energy sources is a significant advantage.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, managing both remote and on‑site responsibilities.
• Professional Engineer (PE) registration with ECSA is required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to the area.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
• Lead role in critical infrastructure projects.
• Exposure to diverse power system challenges.
• Supportive team environment with career growth prospects.
• Hybrid work model promoting work-life balance in **Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA**.