Principal Hydroelectric Project Engineer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Health benefits

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Growth opportunities

Strategic project exposure

Relocation assistance

Site accommodation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Hydroelectric Project Engineer in Durban to lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of major hydroelectric developments. You will guide multidisciplinary teams, ensure technical integrity, and drive projects from feasibility through commissioning, delivering on time and within budget.

The ideal candidate has a Master's in civil or mechanical engineering with hydropower specialization, 15+ years of hydro experience, and Pr.Eng registration, with

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering with hydropower specialization.
• Pr.Eng registration or equivalent.
• Minimum 15 years of progressive hydroelectric project experience.
• Experience leading large, multidisciplinary projects from inception to completion.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical design and engineering for major hydroelectric power plant projects, from concept to detailed design.
• Oversee feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage and mentor civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers to deliver high-quality results.
• Develop and review project plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction schedules.
• Engage with government, environmental groups, and local communities to align on project goals.
• Ensure adherence to hydroengineering codes and best practices throughout the lifecycle.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree in Civil/Mechanical with hydropower specialization

Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration

Tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the Durban energy infrastructure landscape, is seeking an exceptional Principal Hydroelectric Project Engineer to lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of large-scale hydroelectric projects. This senior position demands extensive expertise in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and project management within the hydropower sector. You will be responsible for guiding multidisciplinary teams, ensuring technical integrity, and driving projects from initial feasibility studies through to commissioning and handover. The successful candidate will have a proven track record of delivering complex projects on time and within budget, with a deep commitment to safety and environmental sustainability. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape South Africa's renewable energy future and contribute to significant infrastructure development in the KwaZulu-Natal province. We are committed to innovation and excellence in all our engineering endeavors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and engineering aspects of major hydroelectric power plant projects, from conceptualization to detailed design.
• Oversee feasibility studies, site selection, environmental impact assessments, and regulatory compliance for new hydropower developments.
• Manage and mentor engineering teams, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers, ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Develop and review project plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction schedules.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental groups, and local communities, to ensure project alignment and support.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant engineering codes, standards, and best practices for hydropower projects.
• Provide expert technical advice and support throughout the project lifecycle, including procurement, construction, and commissioning phases.
• Identify and mitigate project risks, proactively addressing technical challenges and ensuring timely resolution.
• Stay current with advancements in hydropower technology, engineering techniques, and international project management methodologies.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and business development efforts related to hydroelectric power generation.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in hydropower.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the design, development, and management of hydroelectric power projects.
• Extensive knowledge of dam engineering, turbine selection and design, power generation equipment, and water resource management.
• Demonstrated experience in leading large, complex engineering projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and permitting processes for infrastructure projects.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration or equivalent is essential.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and bonus structure.
• Executive health and wellness benefits package.
• Generous retirement fund contribution.
• Extensive leave allowance.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Participation in key strategic decisions for national energy projects.
• Relocation assistance provided for successful candidates moving to Durban .
• A chance to lead impactful projects in the renewable energy sector.
• Company-provided accommodation during site visits.