Principal Electrical Engineer - Power Systems

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Principal Electrical Engineer (Power Systems) to lead the design, analysis and modernization of large-scale electrical power networks from our Cape Town office with hybrid work options.

You will guide protection schemes, grid integration of renewables, and mentor a team of engineers while engaging with stakeholders on strategic projects and international standards compliance.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering with Power Systems.
• At least 10 years' experience in power system engineering, senior/lead role.
• Expertise in power system analysis and grid integration of renewables.
• PE registration is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and optimization of complex electrical power systems.
• Develop protection schemes and control strategies.
• Perform load flow, short-circuit, stability analyses with software.
• Ensure conformance to IEC/IEEE/NRS standards.
• Provide technical leadership and mentor engineers.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define project scope.

Skills

Power Systems Engineering

Leadership

Grid Integration

Protection Schemes

Technical Mentoring

Education

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

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PSCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of developing next-generation renewable energy infrastructure and seeks a distinguished Principal Electrical Engineer specializing in Power Systems. This role is based in our vibrant **Cape Town** office, offering a hybrid work model that balances in-office collaboration with remote flexibility. You will be a pivotal leader, guiding the design and implementation of large-scale electrical power systems, ensuring their efficiency, reliability, and compliance with international standards. This position requires a deep technical understanding of grid integration, protection systems, and renewable energy technologies. You will engage in high-level technical discussions, mentor engineering teams, and contribute significantly to strategic project planning and execution. Your expertise will be critical in shaping the future of sustainable energy solutions. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking individual who excels in complex problem-solving and possesses exceptional leadership qualities. This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact on a global scale while working within a highly skilled and collaborative team environment in the beautiful city of Cape Town.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of complex electrical power systems, including generation, transmission, and distribution networks.
• Develop and implement advanced protection schemes and control strategies for power systems.
• Perform detailed load flow, short-circuit, stability, and transient analyses using specialized software.
• Ensure all designs adhere to relevant national and international standards (e.g., IEC, IEEE, NRS).
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers.
• Collaborate with project managers, stakeholders, and clients to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
• Review and approve electrical designs and technical documentation.
• Conduct feasibility studies and technical evaluations for new projects and technologies.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks associated with power system design and operation.
• Contribute to the company's research and development efforts in power system innovation.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in power system engineering, with a significant portion in a senior or lead role.
• Extensive experience with power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, PSCAD).
• Deep knowledge of power system protection, fault analysis, and grid integration of renewable energy sources.
• Proven track record of leading complex power system projects from conception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote work with essential in-office collaboration in Cape Town .
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent professional registration is highly desirable.
• Experience with high-voltage equipment and substations.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a performance bonus. This hybrid role provides the benefit of flexible working arrangements, combining remote work with office-based collaboration in Cape Town . We provide a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and generous annual leave. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance, are readily available. You'll join a supportive and innovative work environment where your contributions are recognized and valued. This is an opportunity to shape the future of energy in South Africa and beyond.