Principal Grid Modernization Engineer

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Grid Modernization Engineer in Paarl, Western Cape to steer the strategic evolution of the electricity grid, enabling distributed energy resources, improving reliability, and boosting efficiency. The role is hybrid, combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

You will lead architecture, design, and deployment of ADMS, SCADA upgrades, AMI, and related communications, while mentoring teams and coordinating with regulators and partners to align

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• At least 10 years of power systems engineering experience with a focus on grid modernization.
• Expertise in ADMS, SCADA, AMI, DNP3 and IEC 61850.
• Experience managing large-scale infrastructure projects and leading technical teams.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with stakeholders at all levels.
• Hybrid work in Paarl, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term strategies for grid modernization, focusing on smart grid technologies, automation, and distributed energy resource integration.
• Lead the design and implementation of ADMS, SCADA upgrades, and communication networks.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of grid performance and recommend technological solutions.
• Oversee integration of renewables, energy storage, and EV charging infrastructure into the grid.
• Develop technical specifications and manage vendor selection processes.
• Collaborate with regulators, utility partners and internal stakeholders to align with modernization goals.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams.
• Manage complex projects to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery and high technical standards.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and regulatory changes affecting grid modernization.
• Contribute to operational procedures and protocols for a modernized grid.

Skills

Grid modernization

ADMS

SCADA

AMI

DNP3

IEC 61850

Power systems engineering

Leadership

Stakeholder communication

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

ADMS

SCADA

AMI

DNP3

IEC 61850

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading utility infrastructure developer, is looking for a visionary Principal Grid Modernization Engineer to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape. This senior role is crucial for guiding the strategic evolution of the electricity grid to accommodate distributed energy resources, enhance reliability, and improve efficiency. The position operates on a hybrid model, allowing for both collaborative in-office work and remote flexibility. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing advanced grid technologies, smart grid solutions, and robust operational strategies. This is an opportunity to shape the future of energy infrastructure in South Africa and drive innovation in a critical sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term strategies for grid modernization, focusing on smart grid technologies, automation, and distributed energy resource integration.
• Lead the design and implementation of advanced distribution management systems (ADMS), SCADA upgrades, and communication networks.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of grid performance, identify areas for improvement, and recommend technological solutions.
• Oversee the integration of renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure into the grid.
• Develop technical specifications for new grid technologies and manage vendor selection processes.
• Collaborate with regulatory bodies, utility partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with grid modernization goals.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams.
• Manage complex projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes affecting grid modernization.
• Contribute to the development of operational procedures and protocols for a modernized grid.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in power systems engineering, with a significant focus on grid modernization and smart grid technologies.
• Proven expertise in ADMS, SCADA, AMI, DNP3, IEC 61850, and other relevant grid modernization technologies.
• Strong understanding of power system analysis, distribution automation, and renewable energy integration challenges.
• Experience in managing large-scale infrastructure projects and leading technical teams.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment in Paarl, Western Cape.
• Professional registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement. The hybrid work model supports a balanced lifestyle. You will be at the forefront of transforming South Africa's energy infrastructure with a company committed to innovation and sustainability.