Job Purpose
The Renewable Energy Project Engineer oversees the planning, design, and execution of utility-scale renewable energy projects (50MW+), ensuring technical compliance, cost efficiency, and timely commissioning. Key Responsibilities
1. Project Development & Feasibility

• Conduct site suitability studies (solar irradiance/wind resource assessments using PVsyst/WindPRO).
• Design layout optimization for solar tracker/wind turbine configurations.
• Prepare technical specifications for EPC tenders (modules, inverters, BESS).

2. Engineering Management

• Review single-line diagrams (SLDs), civil/structural designs, and grid connection studies.
• Manage BOP (Balance of Plant) contractors for roads, foundations, and MV/HV infrastructure.
• Oversee SCADA and performance monitoring systems (Sungrow, SMA, Siemens).

3. Grid Compliance & Integration

• Ensure compliance with NRS 097-2-1 (Grid Code) and NERSA licensing requirements.
• Coordinate power flow studies with Eskom/IPPs for grid connection agreements.
• Implement reactive power control and low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) solutions.

4. Construction & Commissioning

• Supervise PV module installation/wind turbine erection per IEC 62446/IEC 61400.
• Lead energization tests and performance ratio (PR) validation.
• Resolve snag lists for practical completion sign-off.

5. Stakeholder Coordination

• Interface with landowners, Eskom, DMRE, and environmental consultants.
• Report progress to investors/lenders (including Independent Engineer reviews).

Required Qualifications

• BEng/BSc in Electrical/Mechanical/Renewable Energy Engineering.
• Professional Registration: ECSA PrEng/PrTechEng (preferred).
• Certifications:
  • PV GreenCard (SAPVIA) for solar safety.
  • GWO (Global Wind Organisation) certification for wind.
  • Project Management (PMBOK/Agile).

Essential Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills

• Renewable Tech Expertise:
  • Solar: String vs. central inverters, DC/AC ratios.
  • Wind: Turbine load calculations, wake effects.
  • BESS: Lithium-ion chemistries, cycle life optimization.
• Software Proficiency:
  • Design: AutoCAD, PVcase (solar), WAsP (wind).
  • Analysis: DIgSILENT PowerFactory, Homer Pro.
• Regulatory Knowledge:
  • Carbon offset mechanisms (CERs).
  • REIPPPP/BWIP bid requirements.

Management Skills

• EPC contract administration (FIDIC Yellow Book).
• Risk management (force majeure in RE projects).
• Financial modeling (LCOE calculations).

Experience Requirements

• 3-5 years in renewable energy projects (solar/wind ≥ 10MW).
• Proven Experience With:
  • Utility-scale projects 
  • Hybrid systems (solar+diesel/BESS).
• Exposure To:
  • Eskom grid code compliance.
  • International standards (IEC, UL, DNV GL).