Western Cape: Professional Electrical Engineer posted by Zecutive Consultants

About the Role

Zecutive Consultants is seeking a seasoned Professional Electrical Engineer to lead utility-scale renewable energy projects in the Western Cape region. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical understanding of renewable energy systems, local and international standards, and regulations. They will be responsible for project leadership, design, technical expertise, compliance, stakeholder collaboration, risk management, and mentorship.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Management: Take ownership of the electrical engineering design, integration, and execution of utility-scale renewable energy projects (e.g., utility-scale solar farms, wind farms, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)).
• Design & Technical Expertise:
• Lead and perform electrical design work for both medium and high-voltage substations and reticulation, including grid connections.
• Develop and maintain technical specifications, single-line diagrams, and other electrical design documentation.
• Conduct feasibility studies, energy yield analysis, and performance ratio evaluations.
• Utilize and be proficient in industry-standard software for PV design (e.g., PVSyst, PVCase, SAM), electrical system modeling, and network analysis.
• Compliance & Standards:
• Ensure all electrical designs and installations comply with relevant South African national standards (SANS), particularly SANS 10142-1, and international codes.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of the latest applicable electrical codes, regulations, and industry trends, particularly those related to the South African energy sector, grid codes (e.g., NRS 097), and procurement processes.
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including project managers, civil engineers, mechanical engineers, and commercial teams.
• Interface with external stakeholders, including Eskom, municipalities, consultants, and contractors.
• Provide expert technical input for tender preparation, commercial negotiations, and contract management (EPC and O&M).
• Risk & Quality Management:
• Identify and assess technical risks associated with electrical systems and propose effective mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the quality assurance and quality control of electrical installations during construction and commissioning.
• Mentorship & Development: Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and project team members.

Requirements

• Qualifications & Professional Registration:
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.Eng. or B.Sc. Eng.) or equivalent, with a specialization in Electrical Engineering from an ECSA-accredited institution.
• Mandatory: Professional Registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.).
• A further qualification (e.g., M.Eng. or M.Sc.) in a related field such as Renewable Energy is highly advantageous.

Experience

• Mandatory: More than 7 years of post-registration experience with ECSA as a Pr. Eng.
• Vast experience in the renewable energy industry, specifically on large-scale (utility-scale) projects.
• Demonstrated experience in the full project lifecycle, from design and feasibility to commissioning and operational support.
• Proven track record in managing and leading electrical engineering teams on complex projects.
• Experience with high-voltage (HV) and medium-voltage (MV) and overhead lines.
• Knowledge of substation design and grid connection studies recommended.
• Knowledge of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) is highly desirable.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in relevant engineering software for design and simulation.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and time management skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to lead a team and engage with various stakeholders.
• A deep commitment to safety, quality, and ethical engineering practices.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects.
• Passion for the renewable energy sector and a drive to contribute to sustainable energy solutions in South Africa.

Salary & Benefits

Negotiable depending on qualifications and experience.