Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer for on-site work in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will design and maintain protection schemes for HV transmission and distribution, ensuring grid stability and safety.

The role requires leadership, mentoring of junior engineers, and collaboration with planning and operations teams, with strong knowledge of relay coordination, protection philosophy, and standards.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in power system protection engineering.
• Extensive knowledge of protection principles for transmission and distribution systems, including digital relays.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of protection systems for substations, transmission lines, and generating stations.
• Develop, review, and approve protection settings and coordination studies for all voltage levels.
• Specify protection relays, circuit breakers, instrument transformers, and associated control equipment.
• Conduct detailed fault analysis, arc flash studies, and risk assessments.
• Oversee testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of protection schemes.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including protection philosophies and schematics.

Skills

Power systems protection

Protection analysis

Leadership

Mentoring

Education

MSc/MEng in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)

Tools

ASPEN OneLiner

ETAP

PSCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading power utility and infrastructure developer in the Western Cape, is actively seeking a highly experienced Senior Power Systems Protection Engineer for their operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This critical role involves the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced protection schemes for high-voltage transmission and distribution networks. You will be integral to ensuring the stability, reliability, and safety of the regional power grid, working with cutting-edge technologies and complex system challenges. The position requires deep expertise in power system analysis, relay coordination, and modern protection philosophies. As a key member of the protection and control team, you will provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to strategic grid development initiatives. This is an on-site role demanding a hands-on approach and the ability to work collaboratively within a professional engineering environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. We are looking for a dedicated professional committed to upholding the highest standards of grid integrity and operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of protection systems for substations, transmission lines, and generating stations.
• Develop, review, and approve protection settings and coordination studies for all voltage levels.
• Specify protection relays, circuit breakers, instrument transformers, and associated control equipment.
• Conduct detailed fault analysis, arc flash studies, and risk assessments.
• Oversee and participate in the testing, commissionings, and troubleshooting of protection schemes.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including protection philosophies, schematics, and testing reports.
• Collaborate with system planning and operations teams to ensure protection strategies meet evolving grid requirements.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Stay current with advancements in protection technologies, standards, and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., SANS, IEC, IEEE).

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in power system protection engineering.
• Extensive knowledge of protection principles for transmission and distribution systems, including digital relays.
• Proven experience with protection analysis software (e.g., ASPEN OneLiner, ETAP, PSCAD).
• Strong understanding of substation automation, SCADA, and communication protocols.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience mentoring junior staff.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaborating with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is required.
• Willingness to work on-site in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, a pension fund, and performance-based bonuses. This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth and development, including advanced training and exposure to major infrastructure projects. You will work in a stimulating environment with a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the Western Cape's power infrastructure. The position is based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, offering a chance to contribute directly to the region's energy security.