Principal Electrical Protection Engineer - Grid Stability

About the Role

Our client, a key contributor to South Africa's national grid infrastructure, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Electrical Protection Engineer to join their esteemed engineering division in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior role demands extensive expertise in the design, implementation, and maintenance of sophisticated protection systems for high-voltage transmission and distribution networks. You will play a critical role in ensuring the stability, reliability, and security of the electrical grid, safeguarding against faults and operational disturbances. This position offers a strategic blend of on-site expertise and remote project collaboration, ideal for an experienced professional looking to make a significant impact in the energy sector within Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and refinement of protection schemes for high-voltage substations and transmission lines, ensuring optimal grid stability.


• Perform detailed fault analysis and coordinate protection settings across interconnected power systems.


• Specify and select appropriate protection relays, control equipment, and communication systems.


• Oversee the commissioning and testing of protection systems, ensuring accuracy and functionality.


• Develop and implement strategies for grid modernization and the integration of distributed energy resources.


• Provide expert technical consultation and mentorship to protection engineering teams in KwaZulu-Natal .


• Conduct root cause analysis for protection system maloperations and recommend corrective actions.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international standards and regulations pertaining to grid protection.


• Contribute to the strategic planning and capital investment decisions related to grid infrastructure upgrades.


• Engage with stakeholders, including utility engineers, vendors, and regulatory bodies.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems or Protection.


• Over 10 years of specialized experience in electrical protection engineering for large-scale power grids.


• Deep understanding of symmetrical component theory, fault calculations, and protection coordination principles.


• Extensive knowledge of various protection relay technologies (electromechanical, solid-state, numerical) and communication protocols (e.g., IEC 61850).


• Proficiency in power system simulation software for protection studies.


• Proven ability to lead complex projects and mentor junior engineers.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills essential for complex challenges in Durban .


• Strong written and verbal communication skills.


• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration is mandatory.


• Experience with FACTS devices and HVDC systems is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance incentives.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.


• Generous support for professional development, conferences, and further education.


• Exposure to cutting-edge grid technologies and challenging projects.


• A leadership role within a critical national infrastructure organization.


• Opportunity to shape the future of South Africa's power grid in KwaZulu-Natal .

#J-18808-Ljbffr