Principal Electrical Engineer - Grid Modernization

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Conference attendance

Advanced training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead grid modernization initiatives in a remote-first role across South Africa. You will shape technical direction for smart grid, AMI, and SCADA, while mentoring engineers and coordinating with cross-functional teams.

We require a Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering and 12+ years in power utilities, with PE registration preferred. You’ll drive design standards, budgeting, and timely delivery of high-impact projects from a home

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering required.
• Minimum 12 years in power utility or electricity distribution with grid modernization experience.
• Strong knowledge of smart grid, AMI, SCADA; leadership of complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and technical design of grid modernization (smart grid, SCADA, distribution automation).
• Develop technical specifications, standards, and guidelines for new grid tech.
• Analyze grid performance, identify improvements, and propose solutions.
• Oversee AMI and smart metering implementation and integration.
• Collaborate with operations, IT, and asset management to ensure project execution.

Skills

Grid engineering

Project leadership

Stakeholder management

Power systems analysis

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

ETAP

PSS/E

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the electricity distribution sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Electrical Engineer to spearhead critical grid modernization initiatives. This remote-first role will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client's power distribution network, focusing on enhancing reliability, efficiency, and resilience. The successful candidate will lead the technical direction for smart grid technologies, advanced metering infrastructure, and grid automation projects. Working remotely, you will collaborate with teams across the nation, leveraging your expertise to design and implement cutting-edge solutions. This is an unparalleled opportunity to drive significant advancements in the energy infrastructure from your home office, contributing to a more robust and sustainable power system for South Africa .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic planning and technical design of grid modernization projects, including smart grid, SCADA, and distribution automation systems.
• Develop technical specifications, standards, and guidelines for new grid technologies and infrastructure upgrades.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of grid performance, identifying areas for improvement and proposing innovative solutions.
• Oversee the implementation and integration of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and smart metering solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, IT, and asset management, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend their adoption to enhance grid capabilities.
• Develop and manage project budgets and timelines for grid modernization initiatives.
• Ensure all designs and implementations comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems.
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in the power utility or electricity distribution sector, with a strong focus on grid engineering and modernization.
• Extensive knowledge of smart grid technologies, distribution automation, SCADA systems, and AMI.
• Proven experience in leading complex engineering projects from conception to completion.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct advanced power system analysis and modeling.Proficiency in relevant simulation tools (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E) and design software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage a remote team environment.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly preferred.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering the flexibility to work from anywhere in South Africa . Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a robust retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses. We invest in our employees' growth through continuous professional development, conference attendance, and advanced training programs. Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to transforming the energy sector through technological innovation and collaborative problem-solving. This role offers significant impact and career advancement opportunities.