Senior Electrical Project Engineer - Renewable Energy

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, seeks a Senior Electrical Project Engineer to lead electrical design for solar and wind projects, from concept to commissioning. This on-site role requires steering a team of engineers and technicians, managing budgets, schedules, and safety standards.

You will oversee interconnection studies, equipment procurement, and compliance with IEC/SANS. A BEng/BSc in Electrical Engineering with 10+ years in the field, including 5+ in project management for

Qualifications

• BEng or BSc in Electrical Engineering with a focus on power systems or renewables.
• 10+ years of experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years in project management for renewable energy projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for renewable energy projects, including solar farms and wind installations.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, wiring schedules, and equipment specifications.
• Manage grid interconnection studies and ensure compliance with utility requirements.
• Oversee procurement of electrical equipment (transformers, switchgear, inverters, cables).
• Coordinate with construction teams during installation and commissioning phases.
• Ensure all designs/ installations comply with IEC, SANS, and safety regulations.
• Manage project budgets and schedules for electrical scope of work.
• Conduct risk assessments and mitigation for electrical project risks.
• Perform electrical system analysis (load flow, short-circuit, protection studies).
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the project engineering team.
• Liaise with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies as required.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Negotiation

Strategic thinking

Mentorship

Education

BEng/BSc in Electrical Engineering (power systems or renewables)

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Project Engineer to join their growing team in Bloemfontein, Free State . This is an on-site position integral to the successful execution of major solar and wind energy projects. You will be responsible for overseeing all electrical engineering aspects of projects from conception through to commissioning, ensuring adherence to budget, schedule, and quality standards. This role requires a strong understanding of electrical design for renewable energy systems, including grid interconnection, power conversion, and protection. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with exceptional project management skills and a proven track record in delivering complex electrical infrastructure projects. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment. This is a key leadership role within a company committed to a sustainable energy future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for renewable energy projects, including solar farms and wind installations.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, wiring schedules, and equipment specifications.
• Manage grid interconnection studies and ensure compliance with utility requirements.
• Oversee the procurement process for electrical equipment, including transformers, switchgear, inverters, and cables.
• Coordinate with construction teams and contractors during the installation and commissioning phases.
• Ensure all electrical designs and installations comply with relevant industry codes, standards (e.g., IEC, SANS), and safety regulations.
• Manage project budgets and schedules related to electrical scope of work.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies for electrical project risks.
• Perform electrical system analysis, including load flow, short-circuit, and protection studies.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the project engineering team.
• Liaise with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies as required.

Requirements

• BEng or BSc in Electrical Engineering, with a focus on power systems or renewables.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in electrical engineering, with at least 5 years in project management for renewable energy projects.
• In-depth knowledge of solar PV and/or wind turbine electrical systems, including inverters, converters, and SCADA systems.
• Experience with grid interconnection requirements and standards.
• Proficiency in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, ETAP) and project management tools.
• Strong understanding of project management methodologies and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.