Power Systems Engineer - Grid Planning

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Professional development and training

Generous leave entitlement and pension

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical Power Systems Engineer to join our Grid Planning team in Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead long-term planning for transmission and distribution, perform power flow and stability studies, and guide investments for renewables integration. The ideal candidate holds an MSc in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems) with 6+ years of relevant experience and is familiar with PSS/E, PowerFactory or ETAP.

Pr. Eng.

Qualifications

• MSc in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is desirable.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in power systems analysis, planning, or operations.
• Experience conducting comprehensive power system studies.
• Expertise using power system simulation software (PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, ETAP).
• Strong understanding of load flow, stability, protection, and fault analysis.
• Familiarity with South African grid codes, standards and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and quantitative skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication for reports and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Perform power flow, short circuit, and dynamic stability studies for transmission and distribution networks.
• Analyze network capacity constraints and inform grid expansion needs.
• Develop long-term grid expansion and investment plans aligned with demand forecasts and renewable targets.
• Assess impact of new generation and load connections on grid performance.
• Evaluate need for new substations, lines, and equipment.
• Utilize PS software (PSS/E, DIgSILENT, ETAP) for analysis and planning.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and upgrade recommendations.
• Collaborate with internal departments, regulators, and external stakeholders on grid planning.
• Stay updated on grid modernization technologies and methodologies.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Quantitative skills

Education

MSc in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Pr.Eng. registration (desirable)

Tools

PSS/E

PowerFactory DIgSILENT

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a key player in South Africa's electricity infrastructure, focused on ensuring a reliable and efficient power supply through strategic planning and development. We are seeking a highly analytical Power Systems Engineer to join our Grid Planning department based in Paarl, Western Cape. This critical role involves the long-term planning and expansion of the electricity transmission and distribution network, ensuring it can meet future demand and accommodate the integration of new energy sources, including renewables. You will conduct power flow studies, stability analyses, and capacity assessments to inform investment decisions and network upgrades. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical foundation in power systems engineering, proficiency with relevant simulation software, and a deep understanding of the challenges facing the South African grid. This is an excellent opportunity to influence the future of energy infrastructure in the region and contribute to a stable and sustainable power future. You will be instrumental in ensuring the grid's resilience and capacity for growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform power flow, short circuit, and dynamic stability studies for transmission and distribution networks.
• Analyze network capacity constraints and identify requirements for future grid expansion and reinforcement.
• Develop long-term grid expansion plans and investment strategies in alignment with energy demand forecasts and renewable energy targets.
• Assess the impact of new generation (including distributed generation and renewables) and load connections on grid performance.
• Evaluate the need for new substations, transmission lines, and associated equipment.
• Utilize power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, ETAP) for analysis and planning.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and recommendations for grid upgrades and new infrastructure projects.
• Collaborate with internal departments, regulatory bodies, and external stakeholders on grid planning matters.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements in power systems and grid modernization.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of grid planning methodologies and tools.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in power systems analysis, planning, or operations, preferably within a utility or consultancy environment.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting comprehensive power system studies.
• Expertise in using power system simulation software such as PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, or similar.
• Strong understanding of power system fundamentals, including load flow, stability, protection, and fault analysis.
• Familiarity with South African grid codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for report preparation and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Experience with renewable energy integration studies is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to shape the future of South Africa 's electricity grid.
• Continuous professional development and training.
• Work in a challenging and impactful field critical to national development.
• A stable and supportive work environment within a key energy sector organization.
• Generous leave entitlement and retirement plan.
• Potential for career advancement into leadership roles.