Senior Overhead Lines Design Engineer

Wsp In Africa; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Gauteng is seeking a Senior Overhead Lines Design Engineer to contribute to innovative projects in overhead line design. This mid-senior level role involves leading tower spotting and line profiling activities, ensuring compliance with various standards, and mentoring junior engineers. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in overhead line engineering, PLS-CADD proficiency, and strong client engagement skills. Expected involvement in both local and international projects, along with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in overhead line design and engineering.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with project management in local and international contexts.

Responsibilities

• Lead tower spotting and line profiling activities for OHL projects.
• Drive compliance with electrical and structural requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers in PLS-CADD modelling.

Skills

PLS-CADD proficiency

Engineering solutions in overhead line design

Communication with clients

Tools

PLS-Suite (PLSCADD, POLE)

Job description

Senior Overhead Lines Design Engineer at WSP in Africa

This role involves contributing to innovative projects and delivering high-quality engineering solutions in the area of overhead line design.

Primary Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

Lead all tower spotting and line profiling activities for OHL projects using PLS-Suite (PLSCADD, POLE).

Define optimum tower positions considering clearances, spans, conductor sags, terrain, and servitude constraints.

Ensure alignment of spotting outputs with electrical, structural, and civil requirements.

Drive compliance with Eskom guidelines, SANS, BS EN, and international OHL design standards.

Lead and manage independently OHL projects (local and international) – k V to k V.

Design Management – prepare, check, and approve line profiles, stringing charts, and plan-and-profile drawings.

Manage inputs from survey data, LiDAR / DEM, and topographical models into PLS-CADD.

Evaluate alternative line routes and tower configurations for cost, constructability, and environmental impact.

Ensure spotting outputs are coordinated with foundation locations and access road planning.

Full design packages (FEED, CONCEPTUAL, DETAILED and EXECUTION READY) – k V – k V.

Proficiency – excellent with PLSCADD Suite

Quality & Compliance – maintain accuracy of spotting and profiling models, ensuring correct application of clearance rules and safety codes.

Conduct peer reviews and internal audits of PLS-CADD outputs.

Champion continuous improvement of tower spotting standards, workflows, and digital datasets.

Project Delivery

Provide tower spotting inputs for feasibility studies, detailed design, and construction planning.

Support construction teams with staking sheets, tower schedules, and setting-out data.

Resolve site issues related to terrain discrepancies, clearance adjustments, or route deviations.

Contribute to BOQs, material take-offs, and project cost estimates.

Mentorship & Team Development – mentor junior engineers and designers in PLS-CADD modelling, tower spotting logic, and clearance verification

Build team capacity in LiDAR integration, terrain modelling, and advanced spotting methodologies.

Review outputs from junior staff, providing technical coaching and QA feedback.

Team player – foster a collaborative work environment

Client & Stakeholder Engagement – present spotting methodologies, clearance compliance, and route optimization studies to clients.

Provide technical input for tender submissions, proposals, and client workshops.

Act as the PLS-CADD subject matter expert in multidisciplinary design review sessions.

Strong client relationships and team culture.

International travel and local travel when required.

Seniority Level

Mid-Senior level

Employment Type

Full-time

Job Function

Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

Professional Services