Principal Power Systems Analyst - Grid Stability

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Advanced training and certifications

Conference participation

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Power Systems Analyst to advance the national grid from a remote location across South Africa, including Pietermaritzburg. You will conduct advanced studies to drive grid stability, reliability, and efficiency amid rising renewable integration.

Lead complex studies, develop models in PSS/E, PowerFactory/DIgSILENT, or ETAP, and mentor engineers while delivering clear technical reports.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• 12+ years of experience in power system planning, operations, or analysis.
• Proficiency in transient stability, dynamic simulations, and power flow analysis.
• Extensive experience with power system analysis software such as PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, or similar tools.
• Deep understanding of grid codes, interconnection standards, and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute complex power system studies (transient stability, short-circuit analysis, voltage stability, dynamic performance).
• Develop/refine power system models using PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, ETAP.
• Assess impact of new generation sources and grid upgrades on reliability and stability.
• Provide strategic technical direction for grid modernization and planning.
• Mentor junior engineers and present findings to management and stakeholders.

Skills

Power system analysis

Transient stability

Dynamic simulations

Power flow analysis

Leadership

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

PowerFactory/DIgSILENT

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pivotal organization in the Energy sector, is seeking an exceptional Principal Power Systems Analyst to join their team. This role is predominantly remote, with responsibilities that will significantly influence energy infrastructure across South Africa, including areas like Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA. You will be tasked with conducting advanced power system studies to ensure grid stability, reliability, and efficiency, particularly with the increasing integration of renewable energy sources and distributed generation. As a Principal Analyst, you will provide critical insights and strategic recommendations to guide grid modernization efforts and infrastructure planning. This is a unique opportunity to work on complex challenges and shape the future of the national power grid from a remote location.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute complex power system studies, including transient stability, short-circuit analysis, voltage stability, and dynamic performance assessment.
• Develop and refine power system models using industry-standard software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, ETAP).
• Analyze the impact of new generation sources, transmission projects, and grid upgrades on system reliability and stability.
• Develop strategies and technical requirements for enhancing grid resilience and accommodating high penetrations of variable renewable energy.
• Collaborate closely with transmission system operators, generation companies, and regulatory bodies to address grid integration challenges.
• Provide expert technical guidance on system planning, operational security, and market design.
• Mentor and train junior engineers in power system analysis techniques and best practices.
• Stay current with advancements in power system technologies, analytical tools, and industry standards.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for management and stakeholders.
• Contribute to policy development and long-term strategic planning for the power sector, considering regional contexts like KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in power system planning, operations, or analysis.
• Expert proficiency in transient stability, dynamic simulations, and power flow analysis.
• Extensive experience with power system analysis software such as PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, or similar tools.
• Deep understanding of grid codes, interconnection standards, and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with renewable energy integration studies and grid impact assessments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical findings effectively.
• Proven ability to lead complex studies and provide strategic technical direction.
• Familiarity with the South African power system and its specific challenges is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, substantial performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with a generous retirement savings plan. This predominantly remote role offers significant flexibility. Our client is committed to employee growth, providing access to advanced training, professional certifications, and opportunities to present at international conferences. This role offers the unique opportunity to impact the stability and future of energy systems in regions like Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA, from the convenience of a remote setting.