Senior Electrical Design Engineer - Renewable Energy Projects

Placements24; Graafwater; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous annual leave

Professional development and training

Flexible working arrangements

Retirement fund

International project exposure

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Electrical Design Engineer to lead the electrical design for large-scale renewable energy projects in Paarl, Western Cape. You will drive power system analyses, interconnection studies, and detailed electrical layouts for solar, wind and storage projects.

Ideal candidates have 6–8 years in electrical design with renewables exposure, proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP or PSS/E, and a strong grasp of grid codes and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on power systems is required.
• Experience in renewables or grid studies is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design for renewable energy projects (solar, wind, storage).
• Perform power-system analyses: load flow, short circuit, protection coordination.
• Develop single-line diagrams, schematics, wiring diagrams, and layouts.
• Specify transformers, switchgear, cables, and inverters.
• Conduct interconnection studies and prepare utility approval documentation.
• Ensure compliance with IEC/IEEE/NRS codes and standards.
• Collaborate with project managers, site engineers, and procurement.
• Review and approve vendor design packages.
• Provide technical support during construction and commissioning.
• Mentor junior engineers and improve design processes.

Skills

Power Systems

Grid Interconnection

Team Collaboration

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering – Power Systems

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

ETAP

PSS/E

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading consultancy firm specializing in renewable energy infrastructure, is seeking a highly motivated Senior Electrical Design Engineer to join their esteemed team, serving clients across the Western Cape and beyond. This role, based in the vibrant town of Paarl, Western Cape , will focus on the electrical design and engineering of large-scale renewable energy projects, including solar farms and wind energy facilities. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in power systems, grid connection studies, and regulatory compliance within the Energy sector. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to impactful projects and drive the transition to clean energy. Join a company dedicated to sustainable solutions and technological innovation in the Energy field.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design of renewable energy projects, including solar PV, wind, and battery storage systems.
• Perform detailed calculations and analysis for power systems, including load flow, short circuit, and protection coordination studies.
• Develop single-line diagrams, schematics, wiring diagrams, and electrical layouts.
• Specify electrical equipment such as transformers, switchgear, cables, and inverters.
• Conduct grid interconnection studies and prepare necessary documentation for utility approval.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant national and international electrical codes, standards, and regulations (e.g., IEC, IEEE, NRS).
• Collaborate with project managers, site engineers, and procurement teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Review and approve electrical design packages from contractors and vendors.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting during the construction and commissioning phases.
• Mentor junior electrical engineers and contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in electrical design engineering, with a significant focus on renewable energy projects (solar, wind, storage).
• Proficiency in electrical design software such as AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP, PSS/E, or similar.
• Strong understanding of power system analysis, grid codes, and protection principles.
• Experience with grid interconnection requirements and processes.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration is highly advantageous.
• Experience with project management principles is a plus.
• Commitment to high-quality engineering and safety standards within the Energy industry.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.
• Flexible working arrangements and potential for remote work.
• Contribution to a retirement fund.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging renewable Energy projects.
• A supportive team culture focused on innovation and sustainability in Paarl, Western Cape .
• Potential for international project involvement.