Principal Electrical Engineer - Grid Modernization

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical aid

Pension fund

Life insurance

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work arrangement

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal Electrical Engineer to lead grid modernization initiatives in Mahikeng, North West. This senior role blends planning/design in office with site engagement, under a hybrid work model.

You will guide technical design, oversight of projects, and stakeholder coordination, focusing on grid resilience and transition to distributed energy resources. Expertise in power systems and smart grid technologies is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Power Systems is required.
• Professional Engineer registration (Pr. Eng.) in SA is desirable.
• PhD is an advantage.
• Minimum 12 years in electrical utility engineering with grid planning, design and modernization.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and engineering of grid modernization projects, including substations and distribution automation.
• Develop strategies for integrating renewables and energy storage into the grid.
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers.
• Oversee protection schemes, SCADA, and comms for the grid.
• Perform advanced power flow, stability, and fault analysis for reliability and safety.
• Coordinate with regulators, vendors, and stakeholders to define project requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

PhD (advantage)

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

CYME

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major utility company dedicated to enhancing energy infrastructure, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Electrical Engineer to lead critical initiatives in grid modernization in Mahikeng, North West . This senior role is pivotal in shaping the future of our electricity network, focusing on integrating advanced technologies, improving grid resilience, and supporting the transition to distributed energy resources. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in power systems engineering, smart grid technologies, and project leadership. You will be responsible for technical oversight, strategic planning, and driving the implementation of complex grid enhancement projects. This position requires a strategic blend of office-based work in Mahikeng for planning and design, and site engagement for project execution and stakeholder coordination, aligning with a hybrid work model. Join us in building a smarter, more reliable energy future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and engineering of grid modernization projects, including substation upgrades, smart metering deployment, and distribution automation.
• Develop and implement strategies for integrating renewable energy sources and energy storage systems into the grid.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level engineers.
• Oversee the development of protection schemes, SCADA systems, and communication networks for the modernized grid.
• Conduct advanced power flow, stability, and fault analysis to ensure grid reliability and safety.
• Collaborate with regulatory bodies, technology vendors, and internal stakeholders to define project requirements and ensure compliance.
• Manage project scopes, budgets, and schedules for grid modernization initiatives.
• Stay abreast of emerging grid technologies, industry best practices, and evolving regulatory requirements.
• Develop and present technical reports, proposals, and project updates to senior management and stakeholders.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in grid infrastructure and operations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems.
• A PhD is an advantage.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in electrical utility engineering, with a significant focus on grid planning, design, and modernization.
• Proven experience in smart grid technologies, distribution automation, SCADA systems, and renewable energy integration.
• In-depth knowledge of power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, CYME).
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience managing complex technical projects.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to project sites within the North West province.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, including substantial performance bonuses and long-term incentive plans.
• Comprehensive medical aid, a generous pension fund, and extensive life insurance coverage are provided.
• This role presents a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of energy infrastructure in South Africa.
• Professional development is strongly supported through advanced technical training, industry certifications, and leadership programs.
• The position is based at our regional headquarters in Mahikeng , offering a dynamic and challenging work environment.
• We provide generous annual leave, relocation assistance if needed, and opportunities for career progression within a leading utility organization.
• A hybrid work arrangement allows for effective project management and team collaboration.