Midrand: Senior Substation Design Engineer

Location: Midrand | Contract Duration: Permanent | Industry: Engineering Consulting (Transmission & Distribution) The Role Our client, a premier global consulting firm, is seeking a professionally registered Senior Substation Design Engineer to lead transmission and distribution projects across Southern Africa and internationally. This role requires a high-calibre engineer capable of spearheading the preliminary, conceptual, and detailed design of substations ranging from 400 V LV up to 500kV AC. You will operate as a vital technical lead, balancing individual design delivery and project management with the mentoring of junior engineers and direct stakeholder engagement. Key Responsibilities Engineering & Design Delivery: Prepare and review conceptual and detailed engineering drawings for all substation configurations, including Single Line Diagrams (SLDs), general arrangements, bay layouts, earthing layouts, busbar arrangements, and lightning protection drawings. Calculations & Technical Analysis: Perform load flow, short circuit, and protection co-ordination studies, including the modelling of earth mats using proprietary software like CDEGS. Specifications & Procurement: Select appropriate substation equipment (transformers, circuit breakers, instrument transformers) and compile comprehensive technical documentation, data sheets, bills of materials, and tender packs. Contractor Design Reviews: Act as the technical authority to review contractor-submitted designs against rigid client specifications and international benchmarks. Construction & Commissioning Support: Provide on-site engineering support during construction phases, address technical queries, conduct factory inspections, and witness equipment testing. Proposal & Financial Support: Prepare project scopes, execution methodologies, schedules, and budgets for incoming consultancy service proposals. Experience & Technical Qualifications Minimum of 6 years’ dedicated engineering experience strictly within distribution and transmission substation design. Extensive experience leading design teams through the full life cycle of substations (400 V LV up to 500kV AC essential; experience with 765kV AC/DC is highly beneficial). Deep familiarity with Eskom design standards, best practices, and international codes (IEC, IEEE, SANS). Proficiency with CAD design software is required; experience with system studies, secondary plant design, and CDEGS modelling software is highly advantageous. Must possess a valid drivers licence and own transport for occasional local and international site travel. Qualifications Undergraduate Degree (BSc or BEng) in Electrical Engineering from an internationally recognised institution. Professional Registration (Pr.Eng) with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) or an equivalent internationally recognised professional body (non-negotiable). What is on Offer? Market-related Cost to Company (CTC) package (commensurate with senior experience and ECSA registration). Permanent career path within a globally recognised engineering brand that actively prioritises diversity and professional equity. Expected Start Date : As soon as possible (notice periods will be fully respected). If you do not hear back from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.