Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Community impact

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer for a key utility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You design, implement, test and maintain protective relaying systems for generation, transmission and distribution networks.

This hybrid role combines onsite collaboration with remote analysis and reporting. You will mentor junior engineers and contribute to grid modernization while ensuring compliance with IEC/ANSI/SANS standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with a Power Systems focus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in power system protection engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of protective relaying principles, schemes, and applications.
• Proficiency with protection relay software (SEL AcSELerator, GE Encentives, Omicron).
• Experience with fault and coordination studies using simulation software.
• Understanding of IEC/ANSI/SANS standards and protective philosophies.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement protection schemes for electrical systems.
• Specify, select, and configure protective relays and control equipment.
• Conduct fault studies, coordination studies, and arc flash analyses.
• Develop testing and commissioning procedures for protection systems.
• Analyze system disturbances and provide root cause analysis with corrective actions.
• Collaborate with grid operations, planning engineers, and project teams.
• Stay current with technologies and standards in power system protection.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation related to protection systems.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Participate in development and review of protection philosophies and standards.

Skills

Protective relaying

Protection schemes

Fault analysis

Power system protection

Coordination studies

Power system dynamics

Analytical skills

Team mentorship

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

SEL AcSELerator

GE Encentives

Omicron Test Universe

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key utility provider in the Western Cape, is looking for a dedicated Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role is integral to ensuring the reliability, safety, and stability of the electrical grid. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, testing, and maintenance of protective relaying systems and control schemes for power generation, transmission, and distribution networks. The position requires a deep understanding of power system dynamics, fault analysis, and protection principles. You will work on challenging projects involving grid modernization, integration of new energy sources, and ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards. This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds, combining essential onsite work for hands-on project involvement with remote flexibility for analysis and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement protection schemes for high, medium, and low voltage electrical systems.
• Specify, select, and configure protective relays and associated control equipment.
• Conduct detailed fault studies, coordination studies, and arc flash analyses.
• Develop testing and commissioning procedures for protection systems and ensure successful execution.
• Analyze system disturbances and provide root cause analysis, recommending corrective actions.
• Collaborate with grid operations, planning engineers, and project teams to ensure effective grid protection.
• Stay current with the latest technologies and standards in power system protection and control.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and specifications related to protection systems.
• Provide technical expertise and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Participate in the development and review of protection philosophies and standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in power system protection engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of protective relaying principles, schemes, and applications.
• Proficiency with protection relay software (e.g., SEL AcSELerator, GE Encentives, Omicron Test Universe).
• Experience with power system simulation software for fault and coordination studies.
• Understanding of power system stability, dynamics, and transient analysis.
• Familiarity with relevant standards (e.g., IEC, ANSI, SANS).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, excellent medical aid and pension fund benefits, and opportunities for professional development and advancement within the energy sector.
• This hybrid role provides a dynamic work environment in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, allowing for a flexible approach to work.
• You’ll be part of a critical team ensuring the stability of the region's power supply and working on projects that are vital to the community's infrastructure.
• We support continuous learning and provide access to industry training and certifications.
• Enjoy the balance of an engaging role with the flexibility afforded by our hybrid work policy.