Principal Electrical Engineer - Grid Integration

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private healthcare

Generous pension plan

Career advancement opportunities

Involvement in landmark national power

Cape Town, Western Cape location

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a distinguished Principal Electrical Engineer to lead grid integration projects. You will drive high-level design, analysis and planning for large-scale power systems, incorporating renewables into the national grid and guiding engineering teams with technical integrity.

With 12+ years in power systems, you will influence project direction, manage risks and ensure compliance with international standards.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering with focus on Power Systems.
• 12+ years in power system engineering with grid connection expertise.
• Proven track record leading large multi-disciplinary projects.
• Engagement with grid codes, regulators and international standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of large-scale grid integration solutions for power facilities.
• Perform advanced power system studies using simulation tools.
• Develop protection strategies for substations and transmission networks.
• Engage with grid operators and regulators to secure approvals.
• Mentor and guide senior and junior engineers on technical delivery.
• Review third-party designs and contribute to engineering standards.
• Manage project risks and propose mitigation strategies.

Skills

Power Systems

Grid Integration

Leadership

Communication

Mentorship

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

PSCAD

PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in South Africa's energy infrastructure development, is actively seeking a distinguished Principal Electrical Engineer to spearhead their grid integration projects. This pivotal role is based in our client's state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town, Western Cape . You will be responsible for the high-level design, analysis, and strategic planning of complex electrical systems, ensuring seamless integration of new generation sources, including renewables, into the existing national grid. The successful candidate will leverage extensive technical expertise and leadership skills to guide engineering teams, influence project direction, and maintain the highest standards of technical integrity. This is a unique chance to shape the future of energy in the region and contribute significantly to critical infrastructure projects. The position requires a dedicated professional committed to on-site collaboration and project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and detailed design of large-scale grid integration solutions for power generation facilities.
• Perform advanced power system studies, including stability analysis, fault levels, and transient phenomena, utilizing sophisticated simulation tools.
• Develop and oversee the implementation of protection strategies and equipment specifications for substations and transmission networks.
• Engage with grid operators, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to ensure compliance and facilitate project approvals.
• Provide expert technical consultation and mentorship to senior and junior engineering staff.
• Conduct thorough technical reviews of designs and proposals from third-party contractors.
• Contribute to the development of engineering standards and best practices for the organization.
• Manage project risks and technical challenges, proposing effective mitigation strategies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems.
• A minimum of 12 years of extensive experience in power system engineering, with a strong focus on grid connection and integration.
• Demonstrated expertise in power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, PSCAD, PowerFactory).
• In-depth knowledge of grid codes, regulatory requirements, and international electrical standards.
• Proven track record in leading complex, multi-disciplinary engineering projects.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to analyze complex technical problems and devise innovative solutions.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration is essential.

Benefits

• Highly competitive remuneration package.
• Executive-level benefits including comprehensive private healthcare and generous pension plan.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.
• Involvement in landmark national energy projects.
• A prestigious work environment located in vibrant Cape Town, Western Cape .