Senior Solar Design Engineer – Permanent | Hybrid | Western Cape, South Africa

Energy Vault; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

An international renewable energy developer is seeking a Senior Solar Design Engineer in Stellenbosch to oversee the technical design of utility-scale photovoltaic and battery energy storage projects. This role offers a unique opportunity to work on impactful renewable energy initiatives while collaborating with global teams and mentoring juniors, all within a dynamic and innovative environment.

Benefits

Hybrid work model

Opportunity for international project involvement

Professional development and innovation environment

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in PV system design.
• Expertise in utility-scale projects (1MW+).
• Previous experience mentoring or leading junior engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full technical design scope for solar PV and BESS projects.
• Conduct feasibility studies and performance simulations.
• Prepare technical specifications and procurement documentation.

Skills

Problem-solving

Engineering judgement

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering

Renewable Energy or related discipline

Tools

AutoCAD

PVsyst

PVCase

Helioscope

Job description

Introduction

An international renewable energy developer with operations across Europe, Africa, and the Americas is looking for a Senior Solar Design Engineer to join their South African team based in Stellenbosch. With a proven track record in delivering high-performance photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage (BESS) projects globally, this organisation is committed to innovation, quality, and sustainable energy solutions

Description

About the Role:
As the Senior Solar Design Engineer, you will take ownership of the technical design process for utility-scale and commercial PV and BESS projects. Your expertise will drive engineering excellence from pre-development through execution phases. You'll work closely with global teams, contribute to standardisation efforts, and mentor junior engineers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the full technical design scope for solar PV and BESS projects.

• Conduct feasibility studies, performance simulations, and system assessments.

• Develop detailed electrical, mechanical, and layout designs.

• Prepare and review technical specifications, procurement documentation, and construction packages.

• Provide expert feedback on designs developed by internal teams and external consultants.

• Liaise with suppliers, EPC contractors, and grid operators on compliance and design matters.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design standards, tools, and best practices.

Profile

Your Profile:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or related discipline.

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in PV system design, with exposure to utility-scale projects (1MW+).

• Proficiency in design and simulation tools such as AutoCAD, PVsyst, PVCase, and Helioscope.

• Deep understanding of PV system architecture and grid integration.

• Strong problem-solving ability and engineering judgement.

• Previous experience mentoring or leading junior engineers.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

• High attention to detail and a proactive, quality-driven mindset.

We offer

What’s on Offer:

• Work in a hybrid model (remote and office-based) with a team of international experts.

• Opportunity to work on large-scale, impactful renewable energy projects across several countries.

• A dynamic work environment that encourages professional development and innovation.