Principal Power Systems Design Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Private medical aid

International assignments

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Access to design tools and tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Power Systems Design Engineer to lead high‑voltage and medium‑voltage power system design in Centurion, Gauteng. You will drive design direction, mentor teams, and ensure IEC/IEEE and SANS compliance while delivering large infrastructure and energy projects.

You bring 10+ years in power systems, PhD or Master’s in Electrical Engineering, and expertise with PSS/E/ETAP/PSCAD/DigSILENT. Hybrid work enables on‑site collaboration and focused remote analysis.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with Power Systems specialization.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in power systems engineering and leadership.
• Proficiency with power system analysis software: PSS/E, ETAP, PSCAD, DigSILENT PowerFactory.
• Pr.Eng registration with ECSA is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptual and detailed design of HV/MV power systems, substations, lines, and networks.
• Develop and validate load flow, short-circuit, stability, and protection studies.
• Specify transformers, switchgear, busbars, generators, and protective relays.
• Create electrical design documentation: single-line diagrams, schematics, layouts, specs.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to project engineers and teams.

Skills

Power systems design

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PSCAD

DigSILENT PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned international engineering firm specializing in large-scale infrastructure and energy projects, is seeking an exceptional Principal Power Systems Design Engineer to join their esteemed team in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA. This senior role requires a visionary leader with extensive expertise in the design and implementation of complex power systems for utility, industrial, and renewable energy applications. You will be responsible for setting the technical direction for major projects, mentoring design teams, and ensuring the highest standards of engineering excellence. This hybrid role offers the flexibility to blend essential on-site project collaboration and client engagement with focused remote design work and analysis. We are looking for a candidate with a proven track record of technical leadership, innovation, and successful delivery of challenging power system projects. This is a premier opportunity for an experienced engineer to make a significant impact on critical energy infrastructure developments within South Africa and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptual and detailed design of high-voltage and medium-voltage power systems, including substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks.
• Develop and validate system studies, such as load flow, short-circuit, stability, and protection coordination analyses.
• Specify major electrical equipment, including transformers, switchgear, busbars, generators, and protective relays.
• Oversee the creation of comprehensive electrical design documentation, including single-line diagrams, schematics, layouts, and technical specifications.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to project engineers and design teams.
• Review and approve designs to ensure compliance with international standards (IEC, IEEE) and local regulations (SANS).
• Collaborate effectively with clients, project managers, and other engineering disciplines to achieve project goals.
• Assess and propose innovative solutions for grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and energy storage systems.
• Conduct technical risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for power system designs.
• Represent the company in technical discussions with clients, regulatory bodies, and at industry conferences.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in power systems engineering, with significant experience in design and project leadership.
• Demonstrated expertise in power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, PSCAD, DigSILENT PowerFactory).
• In-depth knowledge of high-voltage substation design, protection schemes, and grid codes.
• Proven experience in leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams on large-scale projects.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to influence stakeholders.
• Experience working effectively within a hybrid model, demonstrating strong self-management and remote collaboration skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is essential.
• Experience with renewable energy integration and energy storage technologies is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive benefits including private medical aid, excellent retirement provisions, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for international assignments and high-profile project involvement.
• Support for continuous professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements promoting work-life balance.
• Access to state-of-the-art design tools and technology.
• A prestigious work environment with industry-leading professionals.