Senior Grid Modernization Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Private medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Hybrid work environment

Transport/commuting support

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Grid Modernization Engineer to join our client in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will drive planning, design, and implementation of grid upgrades, focusing on smart grid tech, DER integration, and energy storage to improve reliability and efficiency.

You will lead cross-functional efforts, develop specifications, analyze performance data, and mentor junior staff. The role features a hybrid work model and a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and grid resilience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems).
• 7+ years of experience in power systems engineering, grid operations, or modernization projects.
• Expertise in grid analysis, protection systems, SCADA, and smart grid technologies.
• Strong understanding of distributed generation, renewables, and energy storage.
• Familiarity with South African grid codes and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong project management and coordination skills.
• Effective communication in a hybrid environment.
• Experience with power system simulation software (ETAP, PSS/E) desirable.
• Commitment to reliability and sustainability of the power grid.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and implementation of grid modernization projects.
• Develop engineering specifications, scope of work documents, and technical requirements.
• Analyze grid performance data to identify improvements and solutions.
• Oversee DERs, renewable energy integration, and energy storage in the grid.
• Ensure compliance with national and international standards.
• Collaborate with operations, planning, and regulatory teams for success.
• Manage technical risks and mitigation strategies for projects.
• Evaluate new technologies for grid enhancement and efficiency.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and progress updates.

Skills

Power systems engineering

Grid operations

SCADA

Grid analysis

Project management

Mentorship

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

ETAP

PSS/E

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a vital player in the national energy infrastructure, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Grid Modernization Engineer to join their team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This critical role will focus on the planning, design, and implementation of projects aimed at upgrading and modernizing the electrical grid to enhance reliability, efficiency, and resilience. You will work on smart grid technologies, advanced metering infrastructure, and distributed energy resource integration. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the transformation of South Africa 's power distribution network. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending essential on-site collaboration with remote flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and implementation of grid modernization projects, including smart grid technologies, automation, and protection systems.


• Develop engineering specifications, scope of work documents, and technical requirements for grid enhancement initiatives.


• Analyze grid performance data to identify areas for improvement and recommend appropriate solutions.


• Oversee the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs), renewable energy sources, and energy storage systems into the grid.


• Ensure compliance with national and international standards for grid operations and modernization.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, planning, and regulatory affairs, to ensure project success.


• Manage technical risks and develop mitigation strategies for grid modernization projects.


• Evaluate new technologies and solutions for grid enhancement and efficiency improvement.


• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.


• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and project progress updates.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.


• A minimum of 7 years of experience in power systems engineering, grid operations, or grid modernization projects.


• Proven expertise in grid analysis, protection systems, SCADA, and smart grid technologies.


• Strong understanding of distributed generation, renewable energy integration, and energy storage systems.


• Familiarity with relevant South African grid codes and regulatory frameworks.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.


• Strong project management and coordination skills.


• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a hybrid environment.


• Experience with power system simulation software (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E) is highly desirable.


• Commitment to improving the reliability and sustainability of the power grid.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary, up to ZAR, commensurate with experience.


• Performance-based annual bonus.


• Comprehensive private medical aid.


• Generous retirement fund contributions.


• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.


• A supportive hybrid work environment in Nelspruit , fostering work-life balance.


• Involvement in transformative projects for the national energy infrastructure.


• Access to advanced tools and technologies for grid modernization.


• Be part of a team dedicated to enhancing energy security and sustainability in Mpumalanga .