Principal Electrical Systems Architect - Grid Modernization

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Stock options

Fully remote with home office support

Industry conference travel

Comprehensive healthcare

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Electrical Systems Architect to steer next‑gen grid modernization and DER integration. This remote, executive‑level role shapes architectural direction, guiding cross‑functional teams in the energy tech space from any location.

The candidate will lead system design, standards, and technology choices, influencing roadmaps and regulatory alignment. Significant leadership and deep power systems knowledge are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in electrical power systems engineering with grid modernization focus.
• Proven track record in systems architecture and technical leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design of electrical grid modernization systems (smart meters, DER platforms, ADMS).
• Define system requirements, performance specs, and interoperability standards.
• Evaluate technologies and protocols to meet objectives.
• Develop high-level system designs, interfaces, and data models.
• Collaborate with product, R&D and software teams to translate vision into plans.
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for emerging grid solutions.
• Provide mentorship to engineering teams and guide technical initiatives.
• Represent the company in industry standards and customer engagements.
• Produce white papers, documentation, and patent disclosures.
• Ensure designs align with cybersecurity and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Systems architecture

Power systems

Technical leadership

Requirements analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

ADMS

DERMS

EMS

DNP3

IEC 61850

Modbus

MQTT

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in smart grid technology and energy management, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Electrical Systems Architect to join their esteemed, fully remote engineering division. This pivotal role involves architecting and defining the strategic direction for next-generation grid modernization solutions. You will leverage your deep expertise in power systems, distributed energy resources (DERs), and advanced control strategies to shape the future of energy infrastructure. The position requires a visionary thinker with exceptional analytical skills and a proven ability to influence technical roadmaps. As a remote-first organization, we provide the tools, resources, and collaborative environment necessary for you to excel from any location. This is an unparalleled opportunity to lead innovation at the forefront of the energy transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and conceptualization of complex electrical grid modernization systems, including smart meters, DER integration platforms, and advanced distribution management systems (ADMS).
• Define system requirements, performance specifications, and interoperability standards for new grid technologies.
• Evaluate and select appropriate technologies, platforms, and protocols to meet architectural objectives.
• Develop high-level system designs, interface definitions, and data models for smart grid solutions.
• Collaborate with product management, R&D, and software engineering teams to translate strategic vision into actionable technical plans.
• Conduct feasibility studies, risk assessments, and technology evaluations for emerging grid solutions.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams across the organization.
• Represent the company in technical forums, industry standards committees, and customer engagements.
• Author white papers, technical documentation, and patent disclosures.
• Ensure architectural designs align with cybersecurity best practices and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in electrical power systems engineering, with a significant focus on grid modernization, DER integration, and smart grid technologies.
• Proven track record in systems architecture, solution design, and technical leadership roles.
• In-depth knowledge of power system dynamics, control theory, and grid interconnection standards.
• Experience with ADMS, DERMS, EMS, and other utility control systems.
• Familiarity with communication protocols such as DNP3, IEC 61850, Modbus, and MQTT.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, capable of conveying complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead technical initiatives in a remote setting.
• Experience with cloud platforms and data analytics in the context of power systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive-level salary and long-term incentive plans.
• Premium health, vision, and dental coverage.
• Generous stock options and retirement savings programs.
• Significant opportunities for professional influence and strategic impact.
• Fully remote work environment with comprehensive home office support.
• Access to cutting-edge research and development resources.
• Flexible work schedule and substantial paid time off.
• Travel opportunities for key industry conferences and client engagements.