Principal Electrical Power Systems Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive medical aid

Retirement plan

Annual performance bonuses

International travel opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Electrical Power Systems Engineer for high-voltage grid projects in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will lead design, analysis, and commissioning activities, setting standards and ensuring system reliability.

Responsibilities include leading teams, performing power system studies, protection coordination, and stakeholder engagement with clients and regulators. Pr.Eng registration with ECSA is mandatory and substation experience is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in electrical power systems engineering.
• Pr.Eng registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Experience in substation design and commissioning.
• Proven leadership on large-scale power infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of grid codes and SA regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of high-voltage electrical power systems, including substations and transmission lines.
• Conduct detailed power system studies such as load flow, short circuit, transient stability, and protection coordination.
• Develop and implement protection schemes and fault analysis for power systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers.
• Oversee selection of major electrical equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, and switchgear.
• Ensure designs comply with national and international standards, codes, and regulations.
• Review and approve technical specifications, drawings, and vendor submittals.
• Collaborate with project management, clients, and regulatory authorities.
• Troubleshoot complex power system issues and recommend solutions.
• Contribute to business development with technical input on proposals and tenders.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Mentorship

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PSCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the energy infrastructure sector, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Electrical Power Systems Engineer to lead critical projects in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This role demands extensive expertise in the design, analysis, and operation of high-voltage power systems, including transmission, distribution, and generation facilities. You will be responsible for providing technical leadership, setting design standards, and ensuring the reliability and safety of complex electrical networks. The successful candidate will work on significant infrastructure development and upgrade projects, contributing to the stability and expansion of the national power grid. This position is based in Vereeniging, Gauteng , a region with substantial industrial and energy-related activity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of high-voltage electrical power systems, including substations and transmission lines.
• Conduct detailed power system studies, such as load flow, short circuit, transient stability, and protection coordination analysis.
• Develop and implement protection schemes and fault analysis for power systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers.
• Oversee the selection of major electrical equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, and switchgear.
• Ensure designs comply with national and international standards, codes, and regulations.
• Review and approve technical specifications, drawings, and vendor submittals.
• Collaborate with project management teams, clients, and regulatory authorities.
• Troubleshoot complex power system issues and recommend solutions.
• Contribute to business development efforts by providing technical input on proposals and tenders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in electrical power systems engineering.
• Extensive experience with power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, PSCAD).
• Deep understanding of power system protection, control, and automation.
• Proven experience in leading large-scale power infrastructure projects.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Experience in substation design and commissioning is essential.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet demanding project deadlines.
• Strong understanding of grid codes and operational requirements in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading salary and comprehensive benefits package, including executive medical aid, a superior retirement plan, annual performance bonuses, and opportunities for international travel and professional development. You will be working on high-profile projects that have a significant impact on the region's energy security. The company culture promotes technical excellence, continuous learning, and provides a challenging yet rewarding career path in Vereeniging, Gauteng .