Electrical System Engineer at AltGen South Africa

Summary of the Role

• As Electrical Systems Engineer you will report to the Technical and Project Engineering Manager and will be accountable to assist with the optimal functionality and availability of all Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and communications related aspects pertaining to the safe and efficient operation of Renewable Energy facilities as per the Renewable Energy Grid Code (SAREGC V3.0) and related codes, and the operational parameters specified in the Distribution Customer Use Of System Agreement (DCUOSA).
• This role will own the electrical systems integrity of the operating portfolio, spanning asset-level fault diagnosis, maintenance strategy, and HV/MV oversight through to control systems, SCADA, protection schemes, and integration of new technologies. The successful candidate will also provide engineering support during the design, pre-construction, construction, and energisation phases of renewable energy projects.

What You Will Do

Systems Compliance

• Engage with OEM’s to determine specifications of the plant
• Approve technical content of any changes made by OEM’s
• Develop and document SCADA and RTU programs
• Manage and programme all on-site HMI’s
• Integrate and manage all wired and wireless Ethernet and Serial data networks
• Facilitate integration of communication and control systems
• Download, analyse and process all metering and supply quality data
• Liaise with RETEC and the NSP with respect to statutory evaluations
• Assist with the management of the Data Analytics Centre
• Ensure facilities have the latest Cyber Security firmware and software
• Evaluate new products for application and integration based on functionality, integrity and performance
• Perform regular tests and assessments to ensure equipment operates as per design
• Conduct research and development to improve existing systems and develop new technologies
• Ensure facility compliance with changes in Grid Codes
• Analyse installed equipment and implement modernisation changes where necessary
• Support Construction Teams with Utility interactions, grid connection and energisation
• Audit all handover documentation
• Assist with NERSA audits

Investigations

• Contribute to investigations into causes of non-compliance
• Perform failure analysis and troubleshoot electrical systems
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders
• Determine and implement mitigation strategies
• Compile reports, training material, technical instructions, and bulletins
• Monitor development of technical solutions

Performance and Data

• Programme the Data Analytics Centre HMI to reflect facility status accurately
• Monitor system performance according to required standards
• Implement improvements to performance monitoring
• Investigate causes of poor performance and recommend improvement strategies
• Ensure monitoring and reporting complies with Agreements and Grid Codes
• Ensure all data systems are functional and backed up
• Ensure metering data is accurate and downloaded monthly for billing purposes
• Automate reporting from Data Analysis Centre Software
• Act as custodian of Data Historian archives
• Prepare Signal List Testing documentation for RETEC submission

Additional Responsibilities

• Conceptual design for renewable energy power plants, including utility interfaces
• Preparation of technical specifications and engineering requirement reviews
• Design review and quality monitoring during construction phase
• Support Operations Teams on Utility interactions
• Provide technical support to production and maintenance teams
• Assist Construction Teams on engineering issues and meetings
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget
• Attend technical meetings across development, procurement, construction, and operations phases
• Interface with partners, stakeholders, and external consultants on technical matters
• Produce technical reports for management
• Conduct regular site inspections and meetings
• Interact with Eskom and other utilities during project phases

Requirements

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Engineering IT Systems, SCADA, Network Design, Network Operations, or related Utility environments
• Good knowledge of Renewable Energy and related Grid Codes
• Good knowledge of metering systems, installation, and data evaluation
• Good knowledge of RTU operations including Modbus, SQL, DNP3, and IEC 61850
• Experience with computer-aided design tools and advanced simulation software
• Flexibility regarding work and travel arrangements
• Ability to travel nationally and internationally
• Valid Code B driver’s licence
• No criminal record, past infringements, or previous visa rejections
• Strong communication, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable leading and participating in technical engineering meetings and presentations
• Extensive use of Microsoft Office and Microsoft Windows
• Fluent English written and spoken

Preferred Experience

• SCADA, Engineering IT, and Communications systems
• Wind turbine and solar PV technologies
• Wind farm and solar farm design
• South African HSE and Electrical Standards
• Utility Connections and protection
• Applicable Grid Codes
• Engineering software including AutoCAD, GIS, and dynamic simulation software