Lead Solar PV Design Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Career growth

Training programs

Cape Town office

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Lead Solar PV Design Engineer to join their Cape Town team, driving the design and development of solar PV projects and delivering detailed schematics and execution plans to meet performance and safety goals.

The role requires 8+ years in solar design, strong AC/DC knowledge, and proficiency with PVsyst/AutoCAD Electrical. Mentorship of junior engineers and collaboration across projects are key facets of the role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in design/engineering of solar PV systems.
• Experience leading design teams on complex solar projects.
• Knowledge of AC/DC systems and grid connection requirements.
• Proficiency with PV design/simulation tools (PVsyst, AutoCAD Electrical, Helioscope).
• Understanding of SA electrical codes and grid standards.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design of solar PV projects ensuring standards compliance.
• Develop detailed schematics, single-line diagrams, and wiring schedules.
• Perform site assessments and due diligence for installations.
• Conduct performance modeling and energy yield analysis.
• Specify electrical components (inverters, transformers, switchgear, cabling).
• Collaborate with project managers, construction teams, and clients.

Skills

Lead design team

Solar PV design

Electrical engineering

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PVsyst

AutoCAD Electrical

Helioscope

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the South African energy landscape, is actively seeking a dynamic and skilled Lead Solar PV Design Engineer to join their esteemed team based in Cape Town . This senior position is crucial for spearheading the design and development of innovative solar photovoltaic (PV) projects. You will play a key role in conceptualizing, detailing, and delivering high-performance solar solutions that align with our client's commitment to sustainable energy and operational excellence. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of solar PV technologies, electrical engineering principles, and a proven ability to lead design initiatives from conception through to execution. Join us in shaping the future of renewable energy in South Africa .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of large-scale and small-scale solar PV projects, ensuring compliance with national and international standards.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and wiring schedules.
• Perform site assessments and technical due diligence for potential solar PV installations.
• Conduct performance modeling and energy yield analysis using industry-standard software (e.g., PVsyst, Helioscope).
• Specify all electrical components, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cabling.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, construction teams, and clients to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Mentor and guide junior design engineers and technical staff.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in solar PV technology and industry best practices.
• Review and approve design documentation submitted by external consultants or contractors.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in the design and engineering of solar PV systems.
• Proven experience in leading design teams and managing complex solar projects.
• In‑depth knowledge of AC/DC systems, grid connection requirements, and power systems analysis.
• Proficiency with industry‑standard design and simulation software (PVsyst, AutoCAD Electrical, etc.).
• Strong understanding of South African electrical codes and grid connection standards.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Registration with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa) is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client is pleased to offer a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, a generous provident fund, and significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. Employees benefit from extensive training programs and the chance to work on pioneering projects. This role is based in our state‑of‑the‑art Cape Town office, offering a stimulating and collaborative work environment.

• a highly competitive salary package
• comprehensive medical aid
• a generous provident fund
• significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement
• Employees benefit from extensive training programs and the chance to work on pioneering projects.
• This role is based in our state‑of‑the‑art Cape Town office, offering a stimulating and collaborative work environment.