Principal Grid Integration Engineer - Smart Grid Technologies

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Conference opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Grid Integration Engineer to lead the seamless integration of DERs into the grid from a remote base, focusing on Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA. You will guide smart grid deployments and drive advanced grid modernization initiatives.

Requires 12+ years in power systems, expertise with PSS/E/PSCAD/ETAP, and strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills for complex, multi-stakeholder projects.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in electrical engineering or power systems.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in power systems engineering.
• Expertise in grid integration of renewables and smart grid technologies.
• Familiarity with grid codes, interconnection standards, and utility regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and deployment of grid integration solutions for DERs and energy storage.
• Develop interconnection standards and control strategies for DERs.
• Perform power system studies: load flow, short circuit, transient stability, harmonic analysis.
• Design and implement SCADA, EMS, DMS, and DERMS solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering / Power Systems

Tools

PSS/E

PSCAD

ETAP

IEC 61850

DNP3

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking organization within the Energy sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Grid Integration Engineer to join their innovative team, based remotely but with a focus on projects relevant to Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA. This critical role will focus on the seamless integration of distributed energy resources (DERs), including renewable energy sources and advanced energy storage systems, into the national grid. You will be responsible for developing and implementing cutting-edge smart grid technologies and strategies that enhance grid stability, reliability, and efficiency. As a Principal Engineer, you will provide expert technical leadership, shaping the future of energy infrastructure and contributing to a sustainable energy landscape. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute from anywhere while impacting energy systems in regions like Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical development and deployment of advanced grid integration solutions for renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and electric vehicles.
• Develop and validate grid interconnection standards, technical requirements, and control strategies for DERs.
• Conduct sophisticated power system studies, including load flow, short circuit, transient stability, and harmonic analysis, to assess grid impact.
• Design and implement smart grid technologies such as SCADA, EMS, DMS, and DERMS.
• Collaborate with grid operators, utilities, technology providers, and regulatory bodies to ensure successful project outcomes and compliance.
• Provide expert consultation and technical guidance on grid modernization initiatives and policy development.
• Mentor and develop junior engineering staff, fostering a high-performance team culture.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, industry best practices, and evolving regulatory landscapes in grid integration and smart grid development.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, white papers, and research contributions.
• Contribute to strategic planning for future grid infrastructure and energy system evolution, with an understanding of regional needs such as those in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in power systems engineering, with a significant focus on grid integration of renewables and smart grid technologies.
• Proven expertise in power flow, stability, and protection studies using industry-standard software (e.g., PSS/E, PSCAD, ETAP).
• Deep understanding of grid codes, interconnection standards, and utility regulations.
• Extensive experience with control systems for power electronics, energy storage, and microgrids.
• Strong knowledge of communication protocols relevant to smart grids (e.g., DNP3, IEC 61850).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to lead complex technical projects and mentor engineering teams effectively.
• Familiarity with the South African power system and its unique challenges, particularly in provinces like Limpopo, ZA, is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial base salary and performance-based incentives. As a fully remote role, you will benefit from the flexibility of working from home. Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, a generous retirement savings plan, and ample opportunities for professional development and attending leading industry conferences are provided. Our client fosters a culture of innovation and encourages employees to contribute to shaping the future of energy. This role provides the unique advantage of contributing to energy infrastructure development in regions such as Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA, from a remote setting.