Senior Electrical Design Engineer (Renewable Energy)

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Cutting-edge projects

Collaborative environment

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Design Engineer for a leading renewable energy developer in Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead electrical design for utility-scale solar PV and battery storage projects, develop single-line diagrams and wiring layouts, and ensure compliance with IEC/SANS standards and grid interconnection requirements.

The role requires 7+ years in electrical design with renewables, proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP, and PSS/E, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in electrical design, with a significant focus on renewable energy projects (solar PV, BESS).
• Proven experience with grid interconnection studies and requirements.
• Proficiency in electrical design software such as AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP, PSS/E, or similar.
• Strong understanding of power electronics, AC/DC systems, and control systems.
• Knowledge of South African electrical regulations and grid codes.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience in leading design teams is a plus.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of utility-scale solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
• Develop single-line diagrams, electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams.
• Perform electrical load calculations, short-circuit studies, and protection coordination analysis.
• Specify electrical equipment, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cables.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant national and international electrical codes and standards (e.g., IEC, SANS).
• Collaborate with EPC contractors, suppliers, and internal teams to resolve design issues and ensure constructability.
• Conduct design reviews and provide technical support during the construction and commissioning phases.
• Develop and maintain electrical design standards and best practices.
• Evaluate new technologies and propose innovative design solutions to improve project performance and reduce costs.
• Mentor junior electrical engineers and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Electrical design

Renewable energy

Leadership

Grid interconnection

Power electronics

Communication

Education

BEng/BSc Electrical Engineering

Pr.Eng. desirable

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

ETAP

PSS/E

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent developer of renewable energy projects, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Electrical Design Engineer to join their engineering hub in Paarl, Western Cape. This role is central to the design and development of innovative solar PV and energy storage solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of electrical systems, power electronics, grid interconnection standards, and design software. You will be responsible for leading the electrical design aspects of multiple projects, ensuring technical excellence, compliance, and cost-effectiveness. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned engineer to contribute to significant projects shaping the future of sustainable energy in South Africa and make a lasting impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of utility-scale solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
• Develop single-line diagrams, electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams.
• Perform electrical load calculations, short-circuit studies, and protection coordination analysis.
• Specify electrical equipment, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cables.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant national and international electrical codes and standards (e.g., IEC, SANS).
• Collaborate with EPC contractors, suppliers, and internal teams to resolve design issues and ensure constructability.
• Conduct design reviews and provide technical support during the construction and commissioning phases.
• Develop and maintain electrical design standards and best practices.
• Evaluate new technologies and propose innovative design solutions to improve project performance and reduce costs.
• Mentor junior electrical engineers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in electrical design, with a significant focus on renewable energy projects (solar PV, BESS).
• Proven experience with grid interconnection studies and requirements.
• Proficiency in electrical design software such as AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP, PSS/E, or similar.
• Strong understanding of power electronics, AC/DC systems, and control systems.
• Knowledge of South African electrical regulations and grid codes.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience in leading design teams is a plus.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting your expertise and experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.
• Generous annual leave and other paid time off benefits.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for candidates relocating to the Western Cape.
• Exposure to a wide range of cutting-edge renewable energy projects.
• A collaborative and innovative engineering environment.
• Potential for career progression within a leading energy company.