Principal Power Systems Analyst

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive medical, dental, and vision

Retirement fund with employer match

Generous annual leave

Relocation assistance

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Power Systems Analyst to lead advanced planning for Bloemfontein's power grid. You will guide complex studies, develop grid expansion plans, and advise on integrating renewables and storage, ensuring reliability and national energy security.

The role requires deep expertise in power system modeling, SA grid codes, and a track record of supervising technical teams. An executive environment with substantial bonus potential awaits.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in power system analysis, planning, and operations.
• Extensive experience with power system simulation software (PSS/E, PowerFactory, PSCAD/EMTPDC).
• Knowledge of transmission and distribution grid planning and interconnection standards.
• Proven ability to lead complex analytical projects and mentor technical staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex power system studies: load flow, short-circuit, stability, and contingency analyses.
• Develop long-term grid expansion plans and investment strategies for future demand and renewables integration.
• Assess proposed generation and transmission projects for grid connection compliance.
• Analyze the impact of distributed generation, energy storage, and EVs on grid performance.
• Develop and maintain power system models using industry-standard software.
• Provide technical recommendations to management, project teams, and regulators.
• Mentor junior engineers and analysts.

Skills

Power system modelling

Load flow analysis

Contingency analysis

Team mentoring

Data-driven decision making

Strong communication

Education

MEng/MSc Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

PhD in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

PowerFactory

PSCAD/EMTPDC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major electricity distribution and transmission provider in the Free State province, is looking for a Principal Power Systems Analyst to join their advanced planning department in Bloemfontein . This senior role is critical for ensuring the long-term stability, reliability, and efficiency of the provincial power grid. You will lead complex analytical studies, develop grid expansion plans, and provide expert technical guidance on the integration of new energy technologies, including renewables and energy storage. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in power system modeling, simulation, and planning, coupled with a deep understanding of South African grid codes and operational challenges. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence the future of energy infrastructure in a key region and contribute to national energy security. We value data-driven decision-making and proactive problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of complex power system studies, including load flow, short-circuit, stability, and contingency analyses.
• Develop long-term grid expansion plans and infrastructure investment strategies to meet future demand and integrate renewable energy sources.
• Perform detailed technical assessments of proposed new generation and transmission projects for grid connection compliance.
• Analyze the impact of distributed generation, energy storage systems, and electric vehicles on grid performance.
• Develop and maintain power system models using industry-standard software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerFactory, UDM).
• Provide expert technical recommendations to management, project teams, and regulatory bodies.
• Mentor junior engineers and analysts, fostering technical expertise within the team.
• Stay abreast of emerging power system technologies, industry trends, and regulatory changes.
• Contribute to the development of operational procedures and standards for grid management.
• Represent the company in technical forums and industry working groups.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in power system analysis, planning, and operations.
• Extensive experience with power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerFactory, PSCAD/EMTPDC).
• In-depth knowledge of transmission and distribution grid planning, grid codes, and interconnection standards.
• Proven ability to lead complex analytical projects and mentor technical staff.
• Strong understanding of renewable energy technologies and their impact on grid stability.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration is essential.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and manage multiple priorities.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and significant performance-based bonus potential.
• Comprehensive executive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous retirement fund contribution with employer match.
• Substantial annual leave and professional development budget.
• Opportunity to lead strategic initiatives impacting national energy security.
• Relocation assistance available for candidates relocating to Bloemfontein .
• Access to advanced analytical tools and technologies.
• A challenging and rewarding role in a critical infrastructure sector.
• Employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.