Principal Electrical Power Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Professional growth

Major infrastructure projects

Health & retirement benefits

Generous leave

Training & development

Pension & incentives

Cutting-edge tech

On-site in Rustenburg

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Power Engineer in Rustenburg to lead HV power system design, analysis, and optimization for critical national infrastructure. You will mentor engineers, oversee studies, and ensure compliance with standards.

The role emphasizes expert guidance on power generation, transmission, and distribution, with a hands-on approach to problem solving and staying at the forefront of smart grid and renewable integration trends.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Power Engineering or closely related field.
• 10+ years of extensive experience in design and analysis of electrical power systems.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and engineering of high-voltage power systems, including substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks.
• Perform detailed power flow, short-circuit, and stability studies using advanced simulation software.
• Develop technical specifications for power equipment, such as transformers, switchgear, and protective relays.
• Provide expert technical consultation and support to project teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and commissioning of power system projects.
• Ensure adherence to national and international electrical codes, standards, and safety regulations.
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level power engineers, fostering technical growth.
• Review and approve electrical designs, calculations, and reports prepared by other team members.
• Contribute to the development of long-term strategies for power system upgrades and expansion.
• Stay current with advancements in power system technology, smart grids, and renewable energy integration.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical Power Engineering

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PSCAD

Job description

Our client, a key player in the South African energy sector, is seeking a distinguished Principal Electrical Power Engineer to join their esteemed technical team in Rustenburg, North West . This is a highly influential role focused on the design, analysis, and optimisation of large-scale electrical power systems. You will be responsible for complex projects, providing expert technical guidance, and driving innovation in power generation, transmission, and distribution. This role requires a deep level of expertise and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. You will work on critical infrastructure projects, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and compliance with stringent industry standards. The successful candidate will act as a technical authority, mentoring other engineers and contributing significantly to the company's strategic objectives in the power engineering domain. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional looking to make a substantial impact in the vital field of electrical power.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and engineering of high-voltage power systems, including substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks.
• Perform detailed power flow, short-circuit, and stability studies using advanced simulation software.
• Develop technical specifications for power equipment, such as transformers, switchgear, and protective relays.
• Provide expert technical consultation and support to project teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and commissioning of power system projects.
• Ensure adherence to national and international electrical codes, standards, and safety regulations.
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level power engineers, fostering technical growth.
• Review and approve electrical designs, calculations, and reports prepared by other team members.
• Contribute to the development of long-term strategies for power system upgrades and expansion.
• Stay current with advancements in power system technology, smart grids, and renewable energy integration.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Power Engineering or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of extensive experience in the design and analysis of electrical power systems.
• Proven expertise in power system modeling and simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, PSCAD).
• In-depth knowledge of protection and control systems for power networks.
• Experience with power system planning, operations, and maintenance.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management abilities.
• Ability to work effectively on‑site and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Demonstrated experience with renewable energy integration projects is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership.
• Involvement in high-impact, critical national infrastructure projects.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Company-provided training and development programs.
• Pension fund and performance-based incentives.
• Exposure to cutting-edge power system technologies.
• Supportive and technically driven work environment in Rustenburg .
• Career advancement opportunities within a respected industry leader.