Principal Electrical Design Engineer - Building Services

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Profit sharing

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Design Engineer to lead the Building Services division in Pretoria, Gauteng. This senior role directs electrical design projects for major commercial and institutional developments and mentors a team of engineers.

You will ensure compliance with SANS/IEC codes, drive innovation, and coordinate with clients and multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated solutions in a dynamic project environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Building Services or Power.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in electrical building services design, with at least 5 years in a principal or lead role.
• Extensive experience with electrical design software and simulation tools (e.g., Revit MEP, AutoCAD Electrical, DIALux, ETAP).
• Deep understanding of electrical distribution systems, lighting, power protection, emergency systems, and IT infrastructure for buildings.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design development for Building Services projects from inception to completion.
• Provide senior technical authority and mentorship to the electrical engineering team.
• Develop conceptual designs, detailed design drawings, specifications, and calculations.
• Ensure compliance with national and international electrical codes and standards (SANS, IEC).
• Collaborate with clients, architects, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated design solutions.
• Perform load calculations, short-circuit studies, and protection coordination.
• Oversee review of contractor submittals and provide construction phase support.
• Contribute to project cost management and ensure economical designs.
• Stay at the forefront of technology in building electrical systems, including smart building tech and sustainability.
• Represent the company in client meetings and technical forums.

Skills

Leadership

Client liaison

Project management

Communication

Mentoring

Engineering analysis

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Building Services/Power)

Tools

Revit MEP

AutoCAD Electrical

DIALux

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned international engineering consultancy with a significant presence in Pretoria, Gauteng, is seeking an exceptional Principal Electrical Design Engineer to lead their Building Services division. This senior role is responsible for the strategic direction and technical oversight of electrical design projects for major commercial, institutional, and high-rise developments. You will be a key figure in ensuring the highest standards of design excellence, innovation, and project delivery, mentoring a team of talented engineers and contributing to the firm's growth. This is a career-defining opportunity for a highly experienced professional to shape the electrical infrastructure of significant developments in and around Pretoria.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design development for complex building services projects from inception to completion.
• Provide senior technical authority and mentorship to the electrical engineering team.
• Develop conceptual designs, detailed design drawings, specifications, and calculations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international electrical codes, standards (SANS, IEC), and best practices.
• Collaborate with clients, architects, and other multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated design solutions.
• Perform advanced electrical system analysis, including load calculations, short circuit studies, and protection coordination.
• Oversee the review of contractor submittals, respond to site queries, and provide construction phase support.
• Contribute to project cost management and ensure designs are economically viable and efficient.
• Stay at the forefront of technological advancements in building electrical systems, including smart building technology and sustainable design.
• Represent the company in client meetings and technical forums.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Building Services or Power Engineering.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in electrical building services design, with at least 5 years in a principal or lead role.
• Extensive experience with electrical design software and simulation tools (e.g., Revit MEP, AutoCAD Electrical, DIALux, ETAP).
• Deep understanding of electrical distribution systems, lighting, power protection, emergency systems, and IT infrastructure for buildings.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience in managing engineering teams and projects.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client liaison skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet demanding deadlines.
• Experience with sustainable design certifications (e.g., LEED, Green Star) is highly desirable.
• Must be eligible to work permanently in South Africa and based in or willing to relocate to Pretoria.

Benefits

This prestigious role offers an exceptional remuneration package, including a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and potential for profit sharing. Our client provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and exposure to high-profile projects in Pretoria and beyond. Join a globally recognized firm committed to engineering excellence and innovation. Employees benefit from a supportive, collaborative work environment and the chance to significantly influence the built environment.