Senior Electrician (Post Level 9): Engineering and Sustainability (Job ID 6578) - (2267) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

Solar Maintenance Management

• Perform routine inspections, testing, and preventative maintenance of solar PV systems, inverters, batteries, and associated infrastructure.
• Identify and rectify faults to optimise system performance and energy generation.
• Coordinate repairs and component replacements with service providers.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules.
• Monitor compliance with applicable electrical standards, manufacturer specifications, and safety regulations.
• Compile quotations, evaluate service provider submissions, and oversee implementation of approved works.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, reports, and performance data.
• Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 regulations.

Fire Detection System Maintenance

• Inspect, test, and maintain fire detection and alarm systems in accordance with statutory requirements.
• Monitor and maintain fire panels through the NIMBUS monitoring platform.
• Coordinate servicing, certification processes, and compliance audits.
• Investigate faults and ensure corrective action is implemented promptly.
• Maintain inspection records and compliance documentation.
• Assist with fire safety awareness and training initiatives for staff, students, and contractors.
• Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and manage implementation processes.

Metering Infrastructure Management

• Install, inspect, test, and maintain electrical metering systems.
• Verify meter accuracy and investigate discrepancies.
• Collect, analyse, and report metering data to support billing, monitoring, and energy management objectives.
• Ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate maintenance and upgrades through approved procurement processes.
• Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and oversee implementation.

Microgrid Monitoring and Optimisation

• Monitor microgrid operations, including generation, storage, and load distribution systems.
• Investigate alarms, abnormalities, and operational inefficiencies.
• Analyse operational data and recommend optimisation initiatives.
• Coordinate fault resolution and system improvements with internal stakeholders and service providers.
• Compile operational and performance reports.
• Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 regulations.

UPS System Management

• Manage the operation, maintenance, testing, and reliability of UPS systems.
• Ensure uninterrupted backup power availability for critical infrastructure.
• Monitor battery health, load capacities, and overall system performance.
• Coordinate battery replacement programmes and system upgrades.
• Maintain compliance with safety standards and documentation requirements.
• Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and oversee implementation.

High Voltage Switching Operations

• Perform authorised high-voltage switching activities in accordance with approved procedures and permits.
• Ensure strict compliance with lockout, tagout, isolation, and safety protocols.
• Coordinate switching activities with maintenance, operational, and project teams.
• Respond effectively to electrical emergencies and fault conditions.
• Maintain accurate switching logs and safety records.
• Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations for High Voltage Systems (OHSR-HVS).

Maintenance and Project Integration

• Act as the technical liaison between maintenance and project teams.
• Provide maintenance and operational input during project planning, design, and implementation phases.
• Facilitate seamless project handovers into operational environments.
• Identify lifecycle, maintenance, and operational risks associated with new installations.
• Support commissioning, testing, and acceptance of completed projects.
• Evaluate quotations and manage implementation processes.

Mentorship and Skills Development

• Provide technical leadership, supervision, and mentorship to electricians and apprentices.
• Support training, skills development, and professional growth initiatives.
• Assess competency levels and provide ongoing performance feedback.
• Promote safe work practices and compliance with electrical regulations.
• Assist in developing training programmes and workplace learning opportunities.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Matric/Grade 12 (attach a copy).
• Electrical N3 Certificate or higher (attach a copy).
• Minimum of two (2) years’ relevant working experience as a qualified electrician. 
• Qualified Installation Electrician (attach proof of qualification).
• Valid Wireman’s Licence (attach proof).
• Valid driver’s licence (attach proof).

Recommendations:

• ​​​​​​​Experience in solar photovoltaic systems, electrical distribution systems, fire detection systems, metering systems, UPS systems, and microgrid operations.
• Experience in contractor management, quotation evaluation, and project coordination.
• Experience in high-voltage switching operations and electrical compliance management.
• Training in Occupational Health and Safety regulations and electrical safety practices.
• SANS 10142 compliance knowledge and application.
• Three (3) to five (5) years’ relevant working experience as an electrician. 

Competencies
Key Competencies Required:

Results Orientated:

• The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations. 
• The ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

Strategic Thinking:

• The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
• The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.

Business Acumen:

• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.

Leading:

• The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others. 
• The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

Building Coalitions:

• The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
• The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision. 

Closing date:
9 September 2026