Senior Electrical Engineer - Grid Integration

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Annual leave

Travel allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Engineer specializing in grid integration. You will lead interconnection studies and ensure compliance with grid codes while supporting the integration of renewables into the national grid. The role involves power system analysis using PSS/E, ETAP, and PowerFactory, mentoring junior engineers, and providing technical guidance to project teams.

Pr. Eng.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering with Power Systems specialization.
• Minimum 10 years in electrical power systems engineering focusing on grid integration.
• Expertise in grid codes and interconnection standards; proficient in power system analysis tools.
• Experience with renewable energy integration (solar, wind) is essential.
• Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead interconnection design for new generation facilities to the grid.
• Develop and review grid interconnection studies (load flow, short circuit, stability, protection).
• Ensure compliance with grid codes and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with grid operators, developers, and equipment manufacturers.
• Design and specify protection schemes, control systems, and substation equipment.
• Mentor junior engineers and project teams.

Skills

Grid integration

Power systems analysis

Leadership & mentorship

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PSS/E

ETAP

PowerFactory

Job description

Our client, a major utility company committed to modernizing South Africa's energy infrastructure, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Engineer to specialize in Grid Integration. Based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, this role is critical for ensuring the stable and reliable connection of diverse energy sources, including renewables, to the national grid. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of grid codes, power systems analysis, and the technical challenges associated with integrating variable generation. This is a significant opportunity to influence the future of energy delivery in the region and contribute to a more robust and sustainable grid.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical assessment and engineering design for the interconnection of new power generation facilities (including renewable energy sources) to the transmission and distribution grid.
• Develop and review grid interconnection studies, including load flow, short circuit, stability, and protection coordination analyses.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant grid codes, standards (e.g., NRS standards, international grid codes), and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with grid operators, project developers, and equipment manufacturers to resolve technical challenges related to grid integration.
• Design and specify protection schemes, control systems, and substation equipment for interconnection points.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and project teams.
• Troubleshoot and analyze power system disturbances and operational issues related to grid integration.
• Contribute to the development of grid integration strategies and standards for the company.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in electrical power systems engineering, with a strong focus on grid integration.
• In-depth knowledge of grid codes, interconnection standards, and power system analysis tools (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, PowerFactory).
• Experience with renewable energy integration (solar, wind) is essential.
• Proven ability to perform complex power system studies and interpret results.
• Strong understanding of protection relays, control systems, and substation design.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead technical discussions and influence stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is required.
• Willingness to travel within the Western Cape and occasionally to other regions in South Africa.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure reflecting senior expertise.
• Comprehensive medical aid, including specialist coverage.
• Generous pension fund with employer contributions.
• Significant annual leave allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and international conferences.
• Key role in shaping the future of the energy grid in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance.