Lead Electrical Engineer - Power Systems

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Pension fund

Company car

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Engineer in Stellenbosch, Western Cape to drive the power systems division, shaping strategy, design, operation, and maintenance of an extensive electrical network for a large customer base.

You will lead a team of engineers, oversee substations and transmission projects, and implement protection schemes while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. This senior role demands Pr. Eng. registration and a strong leadership track record.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Power Systems.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in the power utility sector, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• In-depth knowledge of power system planning, operation, protection, and control.
• Proven experience with power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerFactory, DIgSILENT, ETAP).
• Strong understanding of grid codes, regulations, and utility industry best practices.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Experience with renewable energy integration and smart grid technologies is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of long-term strategies for the power system network.
• Oversee the design, engineering, and commissioning of new electrical infrastructure projects, including substations and transmission lines.
• Manage a team of electrical engineers, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance management.
• Ensure the integrity and reliability of the power system through advanced analysis, including load forecasting, stability studies, and fault analysis.
• Develop and implement robust protection and control schemes for the network.
• Oversee the maintenance and upgrade programs for existing electrical assets.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements, industry standards, and safety protocols.
• Manage budgets for capital projects and operational expenditures related to the power system.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies, stakeholders, and other utilities.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the engineering team.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Power systems engineering

Grid operations

Project management

Mentoring

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Pr. Eng. (ECSA) registration

Tools

PSS/E

DIgSILENT

ETAP

PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major utility company, is seeking an experienced and strategic Lead Electrical Engineer to spearhead their power systems division in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This senior position is responsible for the strategic planning, design, operation, and maintenance of the company's extensive electrical network. You will lead a team of skilled engineers, driving innovation and ensuring the reliability, security, and efficiency of power supply to a large customer base. This role requires a deep understanding of power system dynamics, protection, and control, as well as strong leadership and project management capabilities. The successful candidate will play a vital role in shaping the future of energy infrastructure in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of long-term strategies for the power system network.


• Oversee the design, engineering, and commissioning of new electrical infrastructure projects, including substations and transmission lines.


• Manage a team of electrical engineers, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance management.


• Ensure the integrity and reliability of the power system through advanced analysis, including load forecasting, stability studies, and fault analysis.


• Develop and implement robust protection and control schemes for the network.


• Oversee the maintenance and upgrade programs for existing electrical assets.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements, industry standards, and safety protocols.


• Manage budgets for capital projects and operational expenditures related to the power system.


• Liaise with regulatory bodies, stakeholders, and other utilities.


• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the engineering team.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems.


• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in the power utility sector, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.


• In-depth knowledge of power system planning, operation, protection, and control.


• Proven experience with power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, ETAP).


• Strong understanding of grid codes, regulations, and utility industry best practices.


• Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.


• Proven ability to manage complex, large-scale projects from inception to completion.


• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities.


• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is mandatory.


• Experience with renewable energy integration and smart grid technologies is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, complemented by a generous performance bonus, comprehensive medical aid, and an excellent pension fund.


• This role provides significant autonomy and the opportunity to influence strategic decisions.


• Extensive professional development opportunities, including advanced training and conference participation, are provided.


• You will lead a team of talented engineers and work on projects critical to the region's energy security.


• A company car and other executive benefits are included.


• The company is committed to fostering a progressive and inclusive work environment with excellent work-life balance support.