Principal Grid Integration Specialist

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 2,800,000 - 4,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level health insurance

Generous retirement plan

Performance-based bonuses

Home office setup allowance

Conferences and training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Principal Grid Integration Specialist to lead renewable energy integration into the national grid. This fully remote role requires deep expertise in power systems, grid codes, and strategic leadership to guide high-impact projects from a remote setting.

Collaborate with regulators, IPPs, and manufacturers to ensure reliability, security, and efficiency as renewables expand. A senior role with remote flexibility and strong influence.

Qualifications

• Master or PhD in Electrical Engineering with focus on power systems.
• 10+ years progressive experience in power systems and grid integration.
• Strong knowledge of SA grid codes (NRS 097) and interconnection standards.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects and work remotely.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategies for seamless renewable energy integration into the national grid.
• Lead technical assessment and compliance verification against grid codes and standards.
• Provide expert leadership on grid stability, power quality, and system inertia with high renewable penetration.
• Collaborate with grid operators, IPPs, equipment manufacturers to resolve integration issues.
• Conduct advanced power system studies (load flow, short circuit, transient stability, harmonics).
• Mentor junior engineers and influence stakeholders in regulatory discussions.

Skills

Power systems engineering

Grid integration

Grid codes

Technical leadership

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PSS/E

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the South African energy landscape, is seeking an exceptional Principal Grid Integration Specialist to lead their efforts in connecting diverse energy sources to the national grid. This fully remote position requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in power systems engineering, grid codes, and renewable energy integration challenges. The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping the future of energy infrastructure, ensuring reliability, security, and efficiency as more renewable sources come online. This role offers the unique opportunity to work on high-impact projects, influencing national energy policy and technological advancements from a remote setting. Collaboration with regulatory bodies, utility companies, and technology providers will be central to this role.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement strategies for the seamless integration of renewable energy projects (solar, wind, battery storage) into the national grid. Lead the technical assessment and compliance verification of new generation projects against South African grid codes and international standards. Provide expert advice and technical leadership on grid stability, power quality, and system inertia challenges associated with high renewable penetration. Collaborate with grid operators, independent power producers (IPPs), and equipment manufacturers to resolve complex integration issues. Conduct advanced power system studies, including load flow, short circuit, transient stability, and harmonic analysis. Mentor and guide junior engineers and technical staff in the field of grid integration. Contribute to the development of grid codes, interconnection policies, and regulatory frameworks. Represent the company in industry forums, technical working groups, and regulatory discussions related to grid integration. Stay at the forefront of technological advancements in grid modernization, smart grids, and energy storage.

Requirements

Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in power systems engineering, with a significant focus on grid integration of renewable energy. In-depth knowledge of South African grid codes and interconnection standards (e.g., NRS 097). Proven experience with power system simulation software such as PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, or ETAP. Strong understanding of power electronic converter interfaces for renewable energy sources and storage. Demonstrated ability to lead complex technical projects and provide strategic direction. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Proven ability to work independently and effectively in a fully remote environment.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including executive-level health insurance, a generous retirement plan, and substantial performance-based bonuses. As a fully remote role, employees receive a dedicated home office setup allowance and access to continuous professional development opportunities, including conferences and specialized training. Join a team that is shaping the future of sustainable energy in South Africa and enjoy the flexibility and autonomy that comes with a senior remote position. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, regardless of physical location.