Specialist Electrical Engineer - Power Distribution

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking an experienced Specialist Electrical Engineer specializing in Power Distribution. You will oversee design, operation, and maintenance of medium- and low-voltage distribution networks, substations, and protection schemes to ensure reliable power supply for the Eastern Cape.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Pr. Eng preferred, 8+ years in power distribution, experience with DMS and SCADA, and strong project management and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with Power/Distribution specialization.
• 8+ years progressive experience in electrical power distribution.
• Strong understanding of MV/LV distribution design and operation.
• Experience with SCADA and DMS for networks.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and oversee new and upgraded distribution infrastructure.
• Conduct load forecasting, fault level studies, and power quality assessments.
• Develop and optimize protection schemes and settings for distribution networks.
• Manage substation asset lifecycle, maintenance, upgrades, and replacements.
• Ensure compliance with electrical codes, standards and utility regulations.
• Provide technical support to field operations and project teams.
• Investigate and resolve complex power distribution issues.
• Contribute to network expansion plans and capital investment programs.
• Mentor junior engineers in the Port Elizabeth engineering department.

Skills

Power distribution design

Load forecasting

Protection schemes

Project management

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Pr. Eng registration preferred

Tools

SCADA

DMS

Network planning software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a vital public utility responsible for electricity distribution across the Eastern Cape, is seeking an experienced Specialist Electrical Engineer focusing on Power Distribution for their operations in Port Elizabeth. This role is central to ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and modernization of the electricity distribution network. You will be involved in the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of medium and low-voltage distribution systems, substation upgrades, and network protection. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical knowledge of distribution network challenges, regulatory frameworks, and emerging technologies in smart grids. Your expertise will directly contribute to providing a stable and dependable power supply to communities in and around Port Elizabeth.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and oversee the implementation of new and upgraded electrical distribution infrastructure.
• Conduct network analysis, including load forecasting, fault level studies, and power quality assessments.
• Develop and optimize protection schemes and settings for distribution networks.
• Manage substation asset lifecycle, including maintenance strategies, upgrades, and replacements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant electrical codes, standards, and utility regulations.
• Provide technical support and expertise to field operations and project teams.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical issues related to power distribution systems.
• Contribute to the development of network expansion plans and capital investment programs.
• Mentor junior engineers and share technical knowledge within the Port Elizabeth engineering department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Systems or Distribution.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in the field of electrical power distribution.
• Strong understanding of medium and low-voltage distribution network design and operation.
• Experience with distribution management systems (DMS) and SCADA for networks.
• Knowledge of network planning tools and software.
• Familiarity with South African grid codes and utility regulations is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities, particularly within the Port Elizabeth context.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) registration preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits including medical aid and pension fund, and significant opportunities for professional growth within a critical infrastructure sector. You will work in a collaborative environment focused on enhancing the electricity supply for the Eastern Cape. This role provides the chance to make a tangible impact on the region's development and stability.