Lead Renewable Energy R&D Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,900,000 - 2,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health benefits

Retirement benefits

Leadership training

Conference participation

Advanced prototyping facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Engineer to lead renewable energy research at their Pretoria R&D center. The role drives development from concept to prototype, leads engineers and scientists, sets technical direction, and partners with industry to accelerate clean energy adoption.

Requirements include a PhD in energy-related engineering, 10+ years in renewable R&D, and expertise in PV, batteries, power electronics, or grid integration.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering or related energy systems field.
• 10+ years of progressive R&D experience in renewable energy.
• Expertise in PV technology, battery systems, power electronics or grid integration.
• Proven track record leading complex R&D projects and technical teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and testing of renewable energy systems (solar, wind, storage).
• Conduct theoretical and experimental research to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Manage research projects: objectives, timelines, resources.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to pilot and scale energy solutions.
• Author reports, papers, and patent applications; present findings at Pretoria forums.

Skills

Team leadership

R&D leadership

Renewable energy

Project management

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Electrical/Mechanical/Chemical Engineering (energy systems)

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Engineer to lead renewable energy research at their Pretoria R&D center. The role drives development from concept to prototype, leads engineers and scientists, sets technical direction, and partners with industry to accelerate clean energy adoption.

Requirements include a PhD in energy-related engineering, 10+ years in renewable R&D, and expertise in PV, batteries, power electronics, or grid integration.