Principal Electrical Engineer - Renewable Energy

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model in Rustenburg office

Competitive salary and benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer in Rustenburg, North West to lead electrical design for large-scale solar and wind projects. The role combines strategic office planning with focused analysis in a hybrid setup.

The ideal candidate will drive technical excellence, manage engineering budgets and timelines, and mentor a team of engineers to deliver compliant, high-quality designs.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with specialization in Power Systems or Renewable Energy.
• 12+ years in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years in renewables (solar PV, wind).
• Deep knowledge of power electronics, grid connection requirements, and protection systems.
• Experience with electrical simulation software: PVSyst, ETAP, DigSilent PowerFactory.
• HV equipment, substations, and project leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design and development for utility-scale solar PV and wind projects.
• Develop single-line diagrams, layouts, cable schedules, and equipment specs.
• Perform site assessments, feasibility studies, and due diligence.
• Mentor engineers and drive technical growth.
• Collaborate with mechanical, civil engineers, PMs, and stakeholders.
• Ensure designs comply with Eskom, SANS, and international best practices.
• Provide technical support during procurement, construction, and commissioning.
• Manage budgets and timelines for assigned projects.
• Stay updated on industry trends and regulatory changes.

Skills

Leadership

Renewable energy

Project management

Communication

Grid integration

Power systems

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems/ Renewable Energy)

Tools

PVSyst

ETAP

DigSilent PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing leader in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a visionary Principal Electrical Engineer to join their innovative team in Rustenburg, North West . This pivotal role involves leading the electrical design and engineering for large-scale solar PV and wind energy projects. You will be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge solutions, driving technical excellence, and mentoring a team of talented engineers. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of grid-tied renewable energy systems, power conversion technologies, and electrical grid integration. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on sustainable energy development in South Africa and contribute to a greener future. The role offers a flexible hybrid working arrangement, combining strategic planning at our offices with focused analysis from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical engineering design and development of utility-scale solar PV and wind farm projects.
• Perform detailed electrical system design, including AC/DC systems, inverter sizing, transformer selection, grid interconnection studies, and protection schemes.
• Develop and review single-line diagrams, electrical layouts, cable schedules, and equipment specifications.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and due diligence for potential renewable energy project sites.
• Mentor and guide a team of electrical engineers, fostering technical growth and ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers, civil engineers, project managers, and external stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Stay abreast of the latest technological advancements, industry trends, and regulatory changes in the renewable energy sector.
• Ensure all designs comply with Eskom grid codes, SANS standards, and international best practices for renewable energy systems.
• Provide expert technical support during the procurement, construction, and commissioning phases of projects.
• Manage electrical engineering budgets and timelines for assigned projects.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems or Renewable Energy.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years focused on renewable energy projects (solar PV, wind).
• In-depth knowledge of power electronics, grid connection requirements, and protection systems for renewable energy installations.
• Proven experience with electrical simulation software (e.g., PVSyst, ETAP, DigSilent PowerFactory).
• Strong understanding of AC/DC systems, high voltage equipment, and substations.
• Experience with project management and leading engineering teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is strongly preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

• private medical insurance
• a generous retirement annuity
• annual performance bonuses
• extensive opportunities for training and career advancement, including international exposure
• hybrid work model allows for flexibility while ensuring effective collaboration within our Rustenburg office

Join a forward-thinking company that is making a tangible difference in the sustainable energy landscape.