Principal Power Systems Protection Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Medical aid and pension

Relocation packages

Professional development funding

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria is seeking a seasoned Principal Power Systems Protection Engineer to lead the protection and control division. You will design, analyze, and implement protection schemes for HV transmission and distribution, mentoring a team of engineers and guiding grid modernization efforts.

The role requires a Master's in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems), 12+ years in protection engineering with at least 5 years in leadership, Pr. Eng.

Qualifications

• Master's in Electrical Engineering with Power Systems specialization.
• 12+ years in power system protection engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proficient with protection relaying principles (electromechanical to digital and microprocessor-based).
• Expert in power system analysis software (PSS/E, ETAP, ASPEN OneLiner).
• Strong HV substation design knowledge and equipment familiarity.
• Pr. Eng. with ECSA and strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, specification, and commissioning of protection schemes for transmission and distribution networks.
• Perform advanced power system studies including fault analysis and coordination studies.
• Develop and maintain protection philosophy documentation and standards.
• Oversee testing and application of protective relays and equipment.
• Mentor junior and senior protection engineers.

Skills

Protection engineering

Leadership

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Pr. Eng. with ECSA

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

ASPEN OneLiner

SCADA systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major utility provider, is seeking a distinguished Principal Power Systems Protection Engineer to lead their protection and control engineering division in Pretoria . This senior role is pivotal in ensuring the stability, reliability, and security of the electrical grid through expert design, analysis, and implementation of protection schemes. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in high-voltage systems, advanced protection relays, and system fault analysis. This is a unique opportunity to influence grid modernization efforts and mentor a team of highly skilled engineers. You will be at the forefront of safeguarding critical infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, specification, and commissioning of complex protection schemes for transmission and distribution networks.
• Perform advanced power system studies, including fault analysis, coordination studies, and arc flash assessments.
• Develop and maintain protection philosophy documentation and standards for the organization.
• Oversee the selection, testing, and application of protective relays and associated equipment.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior and senior protection engineers.
• Review and approve protection design packages, ensuring compliance with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with grid operations, planning, and asset management teams to address protection-related issues and system improvements.
• Investigate protection system maloperations and failures, providing detailed root cause analysis and recommendations.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in power system protection, including digital substations and cybersecurity for protection systems.
• Represent the company in technical committees and industry forums related to power system protection.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in power system protection engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership or principal role.
• In-depth knowledge of protection relaying principles, including electromechanical, digital, and microprocessor-based relays.
• Proven expertise in power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, ASPEN OneLiner).
• Strong understanding of high-voltage substation design and equipment.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) with ECSA is essential.
• Experience with SCADA systems and communication protocols relevant to protection systems.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and technical teams effectively.

Benefits

• This esteemed position comes with a highly competitive salary, excellent medical aid and pension fund benefits, and a generous performance-based bonus.
• Our client offers unparalleled opportunities for professional development, including funding for advanced training, certifications, and participation in international conferences.
• The role provides significant influence over critical infrastructure projects and a chance to shape the future of the energy sector.
• Working in Pretoria offers a stable environment and good work-life balance.
• We also provide comprehensive relocation packages for successful candidates relocating to the region.