Senior Electrical Technician - High Voltage Systems

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual bonus

Training and development

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Technician for on-site work in Paarl, Western Cape. You will install, test, maintain and repair HV systems, including transformers, switchgear and protection relays, while ensuring strict safety compliance and accurate documentation.

You will read schematics, operate HV testing equipment, support engineers and mentor junior technicians. A National Diploma (Heavy Current) and 5+ years HV experience are required, with travel to multiple sites as needed.

Qualifications

• National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current) or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on HV experience (33kV+).
• Experience in HV switchgear, transformers and circuit breakers.
• Strong knowledge of HV protection relays and testing procedures.
• Know-how of HV safety regulations and LOTO/isolation procedures.
• Proficient with HV testing/diagnostic equipment; able to read schematics.

Responsibilities

• Install, commission, test and maintain HV equipment and systems.
• Diagnose faults in HV switchgear, transformers, breakers and relays.
• Conduct inspections and preventative maintenance on HV assets.
• Adhere to safety procedures, permits-to-work, and HV regulations.
• Read electrical drawings and manuals; operate HV testing gear.
• Assist engineers on investigations and minor projects; document status.

Skills

HV electrical experience

Electrical testing

HV switchgear knowledge

Safety procedures (LOTO)

Education

National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)

Tools

HV testing equipment

Insulation testers

Micro-ohmmeters

Relay test sets

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major energy infrastructure company, is seeking an experienced Senior Electrical Technician to join their operations team in Paarl, Western Cape. This is a hands‑on, on‑site role responsible for the installation, testing, maintenance, and repair of high‑voltage (HV) electrical systems and equipment. You will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of our substations and distribution networks. The ideal candidate will possess extensive practical experience with HV equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and associated protection systems. A strong commitment to safety protocols and a meticulous approach to work are essential. You will work closely with Electrical Engineers and other technicians to diagnose issues, perform complex maintenance tasks, and contribute to the overall efficiency of our electrical infrastructure. This position offers the opportunity to work on critical energy assets in a vital region.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform installation, commissioning, testing, and maintenance of high‑voltage (HV) electrical equipment and systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot faults in HV switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, protection relays, and associated control circuits.
• Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance on HV assets to ensure operational reliability.
• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures, regulations, and permit‑to‑work systems, particularly those related to HV work.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Operate and maintain HV testing equipment (e.g., insulation testers, micro‑ohmmeters, relay test sets).
• Assist engineers in site investigations, assessments, and minor project works.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, test results, and equipment status.
• Provide technical guidance and support to junior technicians and apprentices.

Requirements

• National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current) or equivalent trade qualification (e.g., Electrician with extensive HV experience).
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience working with high‑voltage (HV) electrical systems (e.g., 33kV and above).
• Proven experience in the maintenance and testing of HV switchgear, transformers, and circuit breakers.
• Strong understanding of HV protection relays and associated testing procedures.
• In‑depth knowledge of HV safety regulations and working practices (e.g., LOTO, isolation procedures).
• Proficiency in using HV testing and diagnostic equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret complex electrical drawings and schematics.Excellent troubleshooting skills and attention to detail.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to various sites as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with the experience and specialized skills required for this role.
• comprehensive medical aid
• a provident fund
• potential for annual bonuses based on performance
• Opportunities for ongoing training and development in HV systems and safety procedures are provided.
• This position offers stability and the chance to work with critical energy infrastructure in the beautiful Paarl region.
• Paid annual leave and other statutory benefits are included.
• Join a dedicated team committed to maintaining the reliability of the region's power supply.