Senior Grid Operations Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training & certifications

Relocation assistance

Annual leave & study leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Grid Operations Engineer in Pretoria to oversee real-time high-voltage grid operations, enhance stability, and drive improvements in system performance.

The role requires 6–8 years in power system operations, with deep knowledge of grid dynamics, SCADA/EMS tools, and regulatory compliance. On-site collaboration and readiness for shift work are essential for maintaining energy security.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, majoring in Power Systems Engineering.
• Minimum 6-8 years of experience in power system operations, grid control, or transmission operations.
• In-depth knowledge of power system dynamics, stability, and protection.
• Experience with SCADA, EMS, and other grid monitoring and control technologies.
• Familiarity with power market operations and ancillary services.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make critical decisions under pressure.
• Excellent understanding of relevant grid codes and regulatory frameworks.
• Proficiency in power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerWorld) is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control the real-time operation of the high-voltage power grid to ensure system stability and reliability.
• Analyze grid conditions, forecast load, and manage power flow to meet demand efficiently.
• Lead and coordinate responses to grid disturbances, emergencies, and unplanned outages.
• Develop and implement operational procedures and protocols to enhance grid performance and safety.
• Perform studies related to system planning, expansion, and integration of new generation sources.
• Ensure compliance with national and regional grid codes, operational standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with generation, transmission, and distribution departments to optimize grid operations.
• Utilize SCADA systems, EMS, and other advanced grid management tools for monitoring and control.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on grid operations best practices.
• Participate in grid resilience planning and the integration of renewable energy sources.

Skills

Power systems

Grid management

Regulatory compliance

Leadership

Shift work

Education

Bachelors in Electrical Engineering

Tools

SCADA

EMS

PSS/E

PowerWorld

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a vital player in the national energy infrastructure, is looking for a seasoned Senior Grid Operations Engineer to join their critical operations team based in Pretoria, Gauteng. This role is essential for ensuring the stability, reliability, and efficiency of the power grid. You will be responsible for overseeing complex grid operations, managing system performance, and contributing to the strategic planning of grid enhancements. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of power systems engineering, real-time grid management, and regulatory compliance within the energy sector. This position is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the energy supply for Pretoria and surrounding regions. The role requires a strong presence in Pretoria for immediate response and on-site collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control the real-time operation of the high-voltage power grid to ensure system stability and reliability.
• Analyze grid conditions, forecast load, and manage power flow to meet demand efficiently.
• Lead and coordinate responses to grid disturbances, emergencies, and unplanned outages.
• Develop and implement operational procedures and protocols to enhance grid performance and safety.
• Perform studies related to system planning, expansion, and integration of new generation sources.
• Ensure compliance with national and regional grid codes, operational standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with generation, transmission, and distribution departments to optimize grid operations.
• Utilize SCADA systems, EMS, and other advanced grid management tools for monitoring and control.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on grid operations best practices.
• Participate in grid resilience planning and the integration of renewable energy sources.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, majoring in Power Systems Engineering.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in power system operations, grid control, or transmission operations.
• In-depth knowledge of power system dynamics, stability, and protection.
• Experience with SCADA, EMS, and other grid monitoring and control technologies.
• Familiarity with power market operations and ancillary services.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make critical decisions under pressure.
• Excellent understanding of relevant grid codes and regulatory frameworks.
• Proficiency in power system simulation software (e.g., PSS/E, PowerWorld) is an advantage.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to work in a shift-based environment and respond to emergencies.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting expertise and responsibilities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Significant role in ensuring national energy security.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• Access to cutting-edge grid technology and operational tools.
• Generous annual leave and study leave provisions.