Principal Electrical Design Engineer - Substations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Private medical aid & dental coverage

Pension fund contribution

Career development support & training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Principal Electrical Design Engineer - Substations to lead the high‑voltage substation design for major projects in Cape Town. You will oversee concept to detailed engineering, and provide construction support with a strong focus on reliability and compliance with international standards. The role requires a Pr.

Eng. designation and 10+ years in HV substation design, with proficiency in AutoCAD, ETAP, and DIgSILENT PowerFactory.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a Power Systems focus.
• 10+ years of experience in HV substation design.
• Pr.Eng. designation is essential; IEC/IEEE and SA standards knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead HV substation design from concept through detailed engineering and construction support.
• Develop single-line diagrams, control schematics, protection schemes and equipment specs.
• Perform design calculations for earthing, lightning protection, and AC/DC power supplies.
• Ensure designs comply with IEC, IEEE, SA standards and client specs.
• Review vendor submittals during procurement and construction.
• Conduct site visits for feasibility, verification and construction oversight.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with project teams.

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems

Tools

AutoCAD

ETAP

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the energy infrastructure sector, is seeking an exceptional Principal Electrical Design Engineer - Substations to join their esteemed team in Cape Town, Western Cape . This senior position is critical for leading the electrical design of high-voltage substations, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of critical power infrastructure. You will be at the forefront of complex engineering challenges, contributing significantly to major national and international projects. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in substation design, encompassing all facets from conceptualization to detailed engineering, and demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. If you are passionate about shaping the backbone of our electrical network and thrive in a challenging, rewarding environment, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering of high-voltage substations (up to 400kV and above), from conceptual design through to detailed engineering and construction support.
• Develop single-line diagrams, control schematics, protection schemes, and equipment specifications for substation components, including transformers, switchgear, busbars, and HV cables.
• Perform detailed design calculations and analyses for earthing systems, lightning protection, and AC/DC power supplies.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant national and international codes, standards, and client specifications.
• Review vendor submittals and provide technical clarification during the procurement and construction phases.
• Conduct site visits for feasibility studies, design verification, and construction oversight as required.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement within the design team.
• Collaborate effectively with project management, civil/structural engineers, and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience specifically in the design of high-voltage substations.
• Demonstrable expertise in AC/DC substation design principles, equipment selection, and protection coordination.
• Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, ETAP, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, or similar is mandatory.
• Strong understanding of international standards (IEC, IEEE) and South African national standards.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) designation is essential.
• Proven ability to lead complex design projects and manage engineering teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong emphasis on technical reporting.
• Experience working in the utility or independent power producer (IPP) sector is highly preferred.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and expertise required.
• Our client provides comprehensive health insurance, including private medical aid and dental coverage, alongside a generous pension fund contribution.
• Opportunities for significant career advancement and professional development are abundant, with support for further training and certifications.
• The position is based in the picturesque city of Cape Town , offering a desirable lifestyle and access to world-class amenities.
• You will be part of a forward-thinking company committed to sustainable energy solutions, working on projects that have a lasting impact.
• This is a permanent, full-time position with excellent leave benefits.