Principal Power Systems Engineer

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement fund

Professional development

Opportunity to attend international/‑f

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Power Systems Engineer for a Pretoria, Gauteng position. You will lead the design, analysis, and operation of complex power systems, tackling grid modernization, renewable integration, and power quality challenges.

The role requires deep theory and extensive practical experience in dynamics, protection, and control, with leadership responsibilities and collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams to influence national grid stability.

Qualifications

• Must hold an advanced degree in electrical engineering with a power systems focus.
• Proven leadership in large-scale power systems projects and mentoring experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with clear technical writing.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and analysis of high-voltage transmission and distribution systems.
• Perform advanced power flow, short-circuit, stability, and dynamic simulations.
• Develop protection schemes and control strategies for power systems.
• Advise on renewable energy integration, grid studies and storage solutions.
• Oversee system studies and technical reports for regulators and clients.
• Mentor junior engineers and stay abreast of industry trends.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure reliable operation.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Technical writing

Presentation skills

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

PhD in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PSCAD

SCADA

EMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in the Energy infrastructure sector, is seeking an exceptional Principal Power Systems Engineer to join their advanced technical team. This senior role, based in Pretoria, Gauteng , will involve providing expert technical leadership and strategic direction for the design, analysis, and operation of complex power systems. You will tackle challenging projects related to grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and power quality. The ideal candidate possesses deep theoretical knowledge and extensive practical experience in power system dynamics, protection, and control. This is a unique opportunity to influence the future of energy infrastructure in South Africa and contribute to the stability and reliability of the national grid from the administrative capital, Pretoria .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and analysis of high-voltage power systems, including transmission and distribution networks.
• Perform advanced power flow, short-circuit, transient stability, and dynamic simulations using industry-standard software.
• Develop and review protection schemes and control strategies for power systems.
• Provide expert consultation on renewable energy integration, grid connection studies, and energy storage solutions.
• Oversee the development of system studies and technical reports for regulatory bodies and clients.
• Mentor and guide junior engineering staff, fostering technical excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in power systems engineering.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of power infrastructure.
• Contribute to the development of long-term grid expansion and modernization plans.
• Participate in technical reviews and present findings to stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in power systems engineering, with a significant focus on transmission and distribution.
• Extensive experience with power system analysis software such as PSS/E, ETAP, PSCAD, or equivalent.
• Deep understanding of power system dynamics, stability, protection, and control theory.
• Proven experience with renewable energy integration studies and grid codes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong technical writing and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with SCADA and EMS systems.
• Ability to work independently and lead complex technical projects.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a generous retirement fund.
• This role provides exceptional opportunities for professional development, including attendance at international conferences and advanced training programs.
• You will work on strategically important projects with a talented team of engineers.
• The role is based in Pretoria, Gauteng , offering a blend of professional challenge and quality of life.