Area Engineer - Renewable Control and Special Projects

About the role

Kouga Local Municipality is inviting applications for an Area Engineer specializing in Renewable Control and Special Projects (Notice No. 255/2026). The role leads municipal electrical infrastructure projects such as network upgrades and electrification programmes, and involves frequent on-site work, often outdoors, and being on standby during emergency power supply shutdowns. The annual salary is R724,838.46, excluding a vehicle allowance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design and execution of municipal electrical infrastructure projects, including network upgrades and electrification programmes.
• Manage electrical supply assets and legal matters, and oversee financial aspects such as budget analysis and expenditure planning.
• Supervise staff, conduct performance appraisals, identify training needs and address workplace conflicts.
• Administer projects from inception to close-out, coordinating them with the municipality's Integrated Development Planning (IDP).
• Guide tender and contract management, including drafting, adjudication, reporting and monitoring contractor performance.
• Supervise the metering division to ensure accurate installation, maintenance and data collection for revenue optimisation.
• Prepare detailed reports, liaise with municipal authorities for permits and approvals, and stay up to date with renewable energy technology.

Required profile

• Degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited institute (NQF level 7).
• Registered as a Professional Engineer/Technologist with ECSA.
• At least 5 years' relevant experience in a municipal environment.
• Code EB driver's licence.
• Ability to speak, read and write in at least two of the official languages of Kouga Municipality (Afrikaans, English and Xhosa).
• Preference given to applicants residing within the Kouga area of jurisdiction.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of electrical power systems, distribution networks and municipal grid infrastructure.
• Knowledge of renewable energy systems and familiarity with electrical design standards (IEC, IEEE, local standards).
• Experience with network upgrade and electrification projects.
• Added advantage: electrical design and simulation software such as ETAP, MATLAB and AutoCAD Electrical.
• Understanding of metering technologies, including smart meters and revenue metering.
• Project management, quality control, report writing, negotiation and supervisory skills.