Senior Electrical Project Engineer - Remote Solar Farm Development

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Flexible remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Project Engineer to join a globally distributed team in a fully remote role within South Africa. You will oversee electrical design, from feasibility and system studies to construction management and commissioning of utility-scale PV farms, ensuring technical integrity and on-time delivery.

The role demands 8+ years in electrical engineering, with 5+ years in large-scale solar projects, strong PV design knowledge, and proven EPC contract oversight.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• 8+ years in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years focused on design and project management of large-scale solar PV projects.
• Experience managing projects from design through commissioning in a remote or distributed team.
• Strong PV system design knowledge including inverters, DC/AC collection, transformers.
• Experience with grid interconnection studies and utility requirements.
• Proficiency in PV design software and project management tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical engineering aspects of solar farm projects from concept to commissioning.
• Develop and review electrical designs, single-line diagrams, grounding plans, and protection schemes for PV plants.
• Manage EPC contractors and equipment suppliers per specs and schedules.
• Conduct electrical site assessments and feasibility studies for potential projects.
• Oversee procurement of electrical equipment (inverters, transformers, switchgear, cables).
• Coordinate with grid operators to ensure interconnection and compliance.
• Develop and implement testing and commissioning plans for electrical systems.
• Provide technical guidance to project teams throughout the lifecycle.

Skills

Project management

PV design

Grid interconnection studies

EPC contract management

PVSyst

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PVSyst

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading developer of utility-scale renewable energy projects, is seeking an accomplished Senior Electrical Project Engineer to join their globally distributed team. This is a fully remote position with responsibilities spanning the entire project lifecycle for solar farm developments, from early-stage feasibility and design through to construction management and commissioning. You will be instrumental in ensuring the technical integrity and successful execution of solar power projects across various regions. The role requires a highly independent and proactive individual with exceptional project management skills and a deep understanding of electrical systems for photovoltaic (PV) power plants. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to significant clean energy initiatives without the need for physical relocation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical engineering aspects of solar farm projects, from conceptual design to final commissioning.
• Develop and review electrical designs, single-line diagrams, grounding plans, and protection schemes for PV power plants.
• Manage EPC contractors and equipment suppliers, ensuring adherence to technical specifications and project schedules.
• Conduct electrical site assessments, feasibility studies, and technical due diligence for potential projects.
• Oversee the procurement process for electrical equipment, including inverters, transformers, switchgear, and cables.
• Coordinate with grid operators and utilities to ensure successful grid interconnection and compliance with requirements.
• Develop and implement testing and commissioning plans for electrical systems.
• Provide expert technical guidance and support to project teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage project risks related to electrical design, procurement, and construction.
• Ensure all electrical designs and installations comply with relevant national and international standards (e.g., NRS, IEC, IEEE).

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years specifically focused on the design and project management of large-scale solar PV projects.
• Proven experience in managing projects from conception through to commissioning, preferably in a remote or distributed team environment.
• Strong understanding of PV system design, including inverters, DC/AC collection systems, transformers, and substations.
• Experience with grid interconnection studies, protection coordination, and utility requirements.
• Proficiency in relevant solar design software (e.g., PVSyst) and project management tools.
• Excellent understanding of EPC contract management and construction oversight.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Must possess a reliable home office setup with high-speed internet connectivity.
• Ability to work autonomously, manage priorities effectively, and meet stringent deadlines.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• Our client provides significant opportunities for professional growth through online training, certifications, and exposure to international projects.
• Enjoy the flexibility and autonomy of working from anywhere in South Africa.
• You will be part of a forward-thinking company committed to driving the global transition to renewable energy.
• Regular virtual team meetings and performance reviews ensure continued engagement and development.
• This role offers substantial impact on clean energy development.