Senior Electrical Distribution Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Annual bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Distribution Engineer for our client in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will lead design, planning and operation of the electrical distribution network, ensuring safe, reliable power delivery for customers.

You will manage projects from upgrades to expansions, perform load flow and fault analyses, coordinate protection schemes, and stay abreast of smart grid and renewable integration. Collaboration with multiple teams and consultants is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering is required.
• Professional registration (Pr. Eng) is highly desirable.
• 7+ years of relevant experience in electrical distribution design, planning or operations within a utility.

Responsibilities

• Design and plan electrical distribution systems, including overhead lines, underground cables, substations and equipment.
• Conduct load flow studies and protection coordination for the distribution network.
• Specify equipment and materials for distribution projects compliant with standards.
• Oversee network upgrade and expansion projects with timelines and budgets.
• Investigate and resolve faults and performance issues with corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and IEC/NRS standards.
• Collaborate with field operations, planning and protection teams for reliability.
• Develop and maintain network asset management and condition assessment programs.
• Review designs prepared by external consultants or junior engineers.
• Stay updated on smart grid tech and renewable integration.

Skills

Load flow studies

Fault current analysis

Protection coordination

Project management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PSS Sincal

CYME

DigSilent PowerFactory

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the energy utility sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Distribution Engineer to join their team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This role is essential for the design, planning, and operation of the electrical distribution network, ensuring a reliable and safe power supply to customers. You will be involved in projects related to network expansion, upgrades, fault analysis, and the integration of new technologies. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of distribution system engineering principles and a proven track record in managing complex projects within a utility environment. Join us in shaping the future of energy delivery in Nelspruit .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and plan electrical distribution systems, including overhead lines, underground cables, substations, and associated equipment.
• Conduct load flow studies, fault current analysis, and protection coordination for the distribution network.
• Specify electrical equipment and materials for distribution network projects, ensuring compliance with utility standards and best practices.
• Oversee the implementation of network upgrade and expansion projects, managing timelines and budgets.
• Investigate and resolve distribution system faults and performance issues, implementing corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations, industry standards (e.g., NRS, IEC), and environmental requirements.
• Collaborate with field operations, planning, and protection teams to ensure system reliability and efficiency.
• Develop and maintain network asset management strategies and condition assessment programs.
• Review and approve designs prepared by external consultants or junior engineers.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and advancements in electrical distribution systems, such as smart grids and distributed generation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Professional registration (Pr. Eng) is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in electrical distribution system design, planning, or operations within an electricity utility.
• Strong knowledge of distribution network components, including transformers, switchgear, protection relays, and conductors.
• Proficiency in distribution system analysis software (e.g., PSS Sincal, CYME, DigSilent PowerFactory).
• In-depth understanding of power system protection principles for distribution networks.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and manage stakeholder relationships.
• Familiarity with smart grid technologies and renewable energy integration is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, pension fund, annual bonuses, and opportunities for professional development. This role offers significant career advancement potential within the energy sector. You will work on challenging projects that impact thousands of customers in the Nelspruit region and contribute to the stability and growth of the local power infrastructure. We foster a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.