Protection and Control Engineer

Placements24; Richards Bay; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Professional development support

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly specialized Protection and Control Engineer for a remote role supporting the energy sector, with occasional travel to Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

You will design, implement, and maintain protection schemes for HV substations, develop relay settings, coordinates studies, and provide commissioning support.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in protection and control, knowledge of SEL/GE/ABB relays, SCADA, and IEEE/IEC/SANS standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience specifically in power system protection and control engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of protection principles, relaying logic, and equipment (e.g., SEL, GE, ABB relays).
• Proficiency with protection analysis software for fault calculations and coordination studies.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop protection schemes for medium and high-voltage power systems, including substations and transmission lines.
• Select and apply protective relays, coordination studies, and fault analysis.
• Develop settings files for protective relays using manufacturer-specific software.
• Oversee and assist with the testing and commissioning of protection and control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex protection system issues, providing expert technical support.
• Collaborate with grid operators, project engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure system integrity.
• Stay updated on the latest technologies and standards in power system protection and control.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including protection diagrams, setting reports, and testing procedures.
• Participate in risk assessments and safety reviews related to protection systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.

Skills

Power system protection

Relay protection

Protection coordination studies

Fault analysis

SCADA experience

Relay settings

IEEE/IEC/SANS standards

Education

Electrical Engineering degree (BSc/MSc)

Tools

Protection software

Relay testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the utility and energy sector, is seeking a highly specialized Protection and Control Engineer to join their growing team, operating remotely with occasional site visits to projects in and around Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is central to ensuring the stability, reliability, and safety of the electrical grid by designing, implementing, and maintaining protection schemes for high-voltage substations and power systems. You will be involved in the entire lifecycle of protection systems, from concept and design to commissioning and ongoing support. The ideal candidate possesses deep technical expertise in power system protection principles, relay settings, and associated technologies, coupled with a strong analytical ability and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This remote position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on critical infrastructure from a flexible location.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop protection schemes for medium and high-voltage power systems, including substations and transmission lines.
• Select and apply protective relays, coordination studies, and fault analysis.
• Develop settings files for protective relays using manufacturer-specific software.
• Oversee and assist with the testing and commissioning of protection and control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex protection system issues, providing expert technical support.
• Collaborate with grid operators, project engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure system integrity.
• Stay updated on the latest technologies and standards in power system protection and control.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including protection diagrams, setting reports, and testing procedures.
• Participate in risk assessments and safety reviews related to protection systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience specifically in power system protection and control engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of protection principles, relaying logic, and equipment (e.g., SEL, GE, ABB relays).
• Proficiency with protection analysis software for fault calculations and coordination studies.
• Experience with SCADA and telecommunication systems as they relate to protection and control.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards (e.g., IEEE, IEC, SANS).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of explaining complex technical concepts.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote work environment.
• Occasional travel to Richards Bay or other project sites may be required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remote salary package with performance incentives and a comprehensive benefits scheme including medical aid, life insurance, and a retirement fund.
• Professional development is prioritized, with funding for advanced training, certifications, and conference attendance.
• This role provides the autonomy of remote work while contributing to crucial projects within the energy sector.
• You'll be part of a forward-thinking company that values expertise and offers opportunities for significant career growth.
• The role supports participation in industry forums and continuous learning to stay at the forefront of protection and control engineering.