Lead Electrical Systems Engineer - Renewable Energy

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary with bonuses

Medical aid

Hybrid work arrangement

Career development opportunities

Annual leave and benefits

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Cape Town seeks a Lead Electrical Systems Engineer to drive electrical design for renewable energy projects (solar, wind, hybrid). You will guide a team, manage schematics and control architecture, and ensure grid interconnection compliance.

The role requires a master’s in electrical engineering with a focus on power systems or renewables, 10+ years of experience, and strong leadership. Hybrid work is offered with on-site collaboration and focused remote work.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with specialization in Power Systems or Renewable Energy.
• Minimum 10 years of electrical engineering experience, with at least 5 years in renewable energy.
• Proven experience leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Knowledge of solar PV, wind, and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
• Strong understanding of power system analysis, grid codes, and interconnection standards.
• Proficiency in design and simulation tools such as PVSyst, DigSilent, AutoCAD Electrical.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Pr.Eng registration with ECSA is highly preferred; hybrid power plant experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design and engineering for renewable energy projects (solar, wind, hybrid).
• Oversee development of electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and control architecture.
• Manage grid interconnection studies and utility interconnection compliance.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the electrical engineering team.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Stakeholder management

Communication

Power systems knowledge

Renewable energy

Grid interconnection

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems/Renewable Energy)

Pr.Eng registration with ECSA preferred

Tools

PVSyst

DIgSILENT

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is searching for an accomplished and forward-thinking Lead Electrical Systems Engineer to spearhead renewable energy projects in the vibrant Cape Town, Western Cape region. This pivotal role demands a strategic leader with extensive experience in the design, integration, and optimization of electrical systems for solar, wind, and hybrid energy solutions. You will be responsible for guiding a team of talented electrical engineers, ensuring the successful execution of projects from conceptualization to commissioning. This hybrid role offers a dynamic blend of on-site collaboration and focused remote work, providing flexibility while maintaining project momentum. We are seeking an individual with a profound understanding of power electronics, grid interconnection, energy storage systems, and regulatory compliance within the renewable energy sector. Your expertise will be critical in driving innovation, ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency, and contributing significantly to South Africa's transition towards sustainable energy. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact, shape the future of the energy landscape, and advance your career at the forefront of technological development. We value a proactive approach and are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish. Your leadership will be key to our continued success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for renewable energy projects (solar, wind, hybrid).
• Oversee the development of electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and control system architecture.
• Manage grid interconnection studies and ensure compliance with utility requirements.
• Specify and select key electrical equipment, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, and energy storage systems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the electrical engineering team.
• Ensure all designs adhere to relevant industry standards, codes (e.g., IEC, IEEE), and safety regulations.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, civil/structural engineers, and external stakeholders.
• Oversee the testing, commissioning, and performance verification of electrical systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical issues during project execution and operation.
• Contribute to proposals, technical reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems or Renewable Energy.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years focused on renewable energy systems.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• In-depth knowledge of solar PV, wind turbine, and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
• Strong understanding of power system analysis, grid codes, and interconnection standards.
• Proficiency in relevant design and simulation software (e.g., PVSyst, DigSilent, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is highly preferred.
• Experience with hybrid power plant design and control is a significant advantage.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote analysis with on-site project engagement.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings plan.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a balance of flexibility and collaboration.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Involvement in impactful projects contributing to a sustainable future.
• Generous annual leave and other company benefits.
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and industry best practices.