Senior Grid Modernization Engineer

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement savings with company match

Professional development opportunities

Transformative energy projects

Job summary

Placements24 in East London is seeking a Senior Grid Modernization Engineer to join our client’s team. This hybrid role focuses on planning, designing, and implementing grid modernization projects, including smart grid technologies, AMI, DER integration, and grid automation.

You will work with IT, operations, and planning teams to ensure high reliability, cybersecurity, and compliant deployments while leading vendor engagements and technology evaluations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in power systems engineering with grid modernization focus.
• Experience with AMI, SCADA, distribution automation, DER integration.
• Strong networking and cybersecurity knowledge for critical infra.
• PE license desirable; strong communication and leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, design, and implementation of grid modernization projects.
• Develop technical specifications for grid equipment and software.
• Analyze grid data to identify improvements and implement solutions.
• Oversee integration of renewable energy sources and storage.
• Collaborate with IT, operations, and planning for project execution.
• Develop and implement grid automation strategies and systems.
• Evaluate new technologies to enhance reliability and security.
• Manage vendor relationships and deployment of solutions.
• Ensure compliance with standards, regulations, and cybersecurity.
• Provide technical expertise to project teams and staff.

Skills

Grid modernization

DER integration

AMI systems

SCADA

Project management

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree is a plus

Professional Engineer (PE) license desirable

Tools

SCADA systems

AMI systems

DER integration software

Grid analytics platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking utility provider, is seeking an experienced Senior Grid Modernization Engineer to join their team in East London. This hybrid role emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies to create a smarter, more resilient, and efficient power grid. You will play a key role in planning, designing, and implementing grid modernization initiatives, including smart grid technologies, advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), distributed energy resource (DER) integration, and grid automation. This position requires a strong understanding of power systems, communication networks, and software applications used in grid operations. If you are passionate about shaping the future of energy infrastructure and possess a robust engineering background, this is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact. Join a dedicated team focused on transforming the energy landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design, and implementation of grid modernization projects, including smart grid technologies, AMI, and DER integration.
• Develop technical specifications for grid modernization equipment and software systems.
• Analyze grid performance data to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions.
• Oversee the integration of renewable energy sources and energy storage systems into the grid.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including IT, operations, and planning, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Develop and implement grid automation strategies and systems.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies to enhance grid reliability, efficiency, and security.
• Manage vendor relationships and oversee the procurement and deployment of grid modernization solutions.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Provide technical expertise and support to project teams and operational staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in power systems engineering, with a focus on grid modernization and smart grid technologies.
• Proven experience with AMI systems, SCADA, distribution automation, and DER integration.
• Strong understanding of communication protocols and networking technologies relevant to utility operations.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity principles as applied to critical infrastructure.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and technical evaluation skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid team environment, balancing remote and in-office contributions.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility and work-life balance.
• Comprehensive medical aid, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Be part of transformative projects in the evolving energy sector.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.