Lead Grid Integration Specialist

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement plan

Professional development & training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Grid Integration Specialist in Cape Town to drive the seamless integration of renewable energy sources and storage into the national grid. You will lead a skilled team, develop grid modernization strategies, and liaise with utilities and regulators to ensure compliance with South Africa's grid codes.

Ideal candidates hold an Electrical Engineering master's with a power systems focus, 8+ years of relevant experience, and familiarity with PSS/E/DIgSILENT/ETAP. Pr.Eng.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Power Systems.
• 8+ years of professional experience in power system engineering, with emphasis on grid integration.
• Pr.Eng. registration with ECSA is an advantage.
• Strong knowledge of grid codes, protection, and regulatory frameworks in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategies for renewable energy integration into the national grid.
• Analyze grid performance and identify stability bottlenecks.
• Design advanced grid control and protection schemes to ensure reliability.
• Collaborate with IPPs, utilities, and regulators to ensure grid code compliance.
• Lead studies on grid capacity and interconnection requirements.
• Maintain detailed system models for planning and operation.
• Provide expert technical guidance to project teams and operations.
• Stay current with smart grids, microgrids, and AMI technologies.
• Mentor a team of grid engineers and promote technical excellence.
• Prepare technical documentation and presentations for stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Decision making

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

About the Role Our client is a major player in the Energy sector and is looking for a highly experienced Lead Grid Integration Specialist to join their team in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape . This critical role will focus on ensuring the seamless and stable integration of diverse energy sources, including renewables, into the existing power grid. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing strategies for grid modernization and enhancing grid stability and reliability. The successful candidate will possess extensive knowledge of power system dynamics, grid codes, and regulatory frameworks governing energy infrastructure. This is a leadership position offering the chance to influence national energy policy and contribute to the security and sustainability of the power supply in South Africa. We are committed to innovation and are seeking individuals who share our vision for a robust and efficient energy future.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategies for the integration of renewable energy sources (solar, wind) and energy storage systems into the national grid.
• Analyze grid performance and identify potential bottlenecks or stability issues related to new generation or load connections.
• Design and implement advanced grid control and protection schemes to ensure operational reliability and safety.
• Collaborate with utility companies, Independent Power Producers (IPPs), and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with grid codes and standards.
• Lead studies on grid capacity, interconnection requirements, and impact assessments for new energy projects.
• Develop and maintain detailed system models for grid planning and operational analysis.
• Provide expert technical advice and support to project teams, operations, and planning departments.
• Stay current with emerging grid technologies, such as smart grids, microgrids, and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI).
• Manage and mentor a team of grid engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, reports, and presentations for stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in power system engineering, with a significant focus on grid integration.
• In-depth knowledge of power system stability, dynamics, control, and protection principles.
• Strong understanding of grid codes, interconnection standards, and electricity market regulations in South Africa.
• Experience with power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, ETAP).
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and manage engineering teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience with renewable energy technologies and energy storage systems is highly desirable.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) with ECSA is an advantage.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a generous retirement plan.
• Employees are provided with opportunities for continued professional development, including specialized training and conference attendance.
• Our client values work-life balance and provides a supportive work environment.
• Additional benefits include potential for annual bonuses, substantial annual leave, and the chance to be at the forefront of grid modernization efforts in the crucial Energy sector.
• The opportunity to work on large-scale, impactful projects in Cape Town makes this a highly sought-after position.