Senior Electrical Engineer - Renewable Energy

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life assurance

CPD opportunities

Training in renewable energy tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer - Renewable Energy in Soweto to lead electrical design, integration, and operations for solar and wind projects. You will guide feasibility, detailed engineering, construction support, and performance monitoring with a focus on grid connection and power electronics.

The role requires 6+ years in renewable energy, SA grid code knowledge, and proficiency with PVSyst/ETAP/DiGSilent. ECSA registration is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 6+ years with renewable energy projects (solar PV, wind).
• Strong AC/DC power systems, grid integration, and power electronics.
• Experience with design software PVSyst, ETAP, DigSILENT PowerFactory.
• Knowledge of SA grid codes and regulatory requirements.
• SCADA experience is an advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop electrical designs and specifications for utility-scale solar PV and wind farms.
• Perform system modeling, load flow, fault studies, and protection coordination.
• Specify electrical components: inverters, transformers, switchgear, cabling.
• Ensure compliance with grid connection standards and IE rules.
• Review designs and drawings by internal teams and external consultants.
• Provide technical support during construction and commissioning.
• Collaborate with grid operators, landowners and stakeholders.
• Conduct technical due diligence for new projects and assess assets.
• Troubleshoot electrical issues during operation and maintenance.
• Mentor junior engineers and share knowledge.

Skills

Power systems

Grid integration

Renewable energy

Electrical design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

ECSA registration or eligibility

Tools

PVSyst

ETAP

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading developer and operator of renewable energy projects, is actively seeking a highly qualified Senior Electrical Engineer - Renewable Energy to join their team based in Soweto. This role focuses on the electrical design, integration, and operational aspects of solar and wind energy projects. You will be involved in all stages of the project lifecycle, from initial feasibility studies and conceptual design through to detailed engineering, construction support, and performance monitoring. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of power systems, grid connection requirements, and electrical equipment specific to renewable energy applications. You will play a critical role in ensuring the successful and efficient delivery of clean energy solutions. This is an opportunity to work on impactful projects that contribute to South Africa's sustainable energy future, within a collaborative and technically proficient team environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop electrical designs and specifications for utility-scale solar PV and wind farms.
• Perform system modeling, load flow analysis, fault studies, and protection coordination for renewable energy projects.
• Specify and select key electrical components, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cabling.
• Ensure compliance with grid connection standards, IE rules, and relevant South African electrical regulations.
• Review and approve electrical designs and drawings prepared by internal teams and external consultants.
• Provide technical support during the construction and commissioning phases of projects.
• Collaborate with grid operators, landowners, and other stakeholders to facilitate project development.
• Conduct technical due diligence for potential new projects and assess existing assets.
• Troubleshoot electrical issues encountered during operation and maintenance phases.
• Mentor junior electrical engineers and contribute to team knowledge sharing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in electrical engineering, with a significant focus on renewable energy projects (solar PV, wind).
• Strong understanding of AC/DC power systems, grid integration, and power electronics.
• Proficiency in using electrical design and simulation software (e.g., PVSyst, ETAP, DIgSILENT PowerFactory).
• Knowledge of South African grid codes and regulatory requirements for power generation.
• Experience with SCADA systems for renewable energy plants is an advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a project team and manage multiple tasks concurrently.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa) or eligibility is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, provident fund, and life assurance.
• Employees are provided with opportunities for continuous professional development, including specialized training in renewable energy technologies and project management.
• This role is based in Soweto, offering a dynamic work environment and the chance to be part of a crucial industry driving sustainable development in South Africa.