Principal Electrical Engineer – Data Center

About the role

AECOM is looking for a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead the design and delivery of data‑center projects in Durban. The role combines technical leadership, client advisory and project management to ensure high‑quality, cost‑effective electrical solutions that meet local and international standards.

Key responsibilities

• Lead development and review of complex LV/MV (up to 132 kV) electrical designs, including load lists, single‑line and network diagrams, protection schemes and cable sizing.
• Prepare and manage project schedules, cost estimates, progress reports and procurement activities.
• Guide a multidisciplinary team of senior engineers, engineers and BIM modelers to meet design deadlines.
• Act as trusted technical advisor to clients, leading meetings, presentations and workshops.
• Develop detailed specifications for switchgear, MCCs, transformers, UPS, VSDs, PF correction, lighting, BMS and fire‑detection systems.
• Perform system studies (short‑circuit, load flow, protection coordination) using DIgSILENT/ETAP.
• Coordinate vendor data, conduct factory acceptance tests and manage field engineering support during construction and commissioning.
• Mentor junior engineers, support professional registration and contribute to standardisation of engineering documentation.

Required profile

• BSc in Electrical Engineering.
• More than 12 years of electrical project engineering experience, including heavy‑industrial and commercial building environments.
• Registered Full Professional Engineer with ECSA.
• Strong knowledge of South African standards, SANS, IEC codes and OHS regulations.
• Experience in data‑center projects is advantageous.

Required skills

• LV/MV design up to 132 kV (load flow, fault level calculations, protection schemes).
• DIgSILENT or ETAP power‑system modelling.
• Microsoft Office suite – Excel, Word, Access, Project.
• Specification of electrical equipment (switchgear, MCC, transformers, UPS, VSD, PF correction, filters, lighting).
• PLC/DCS and Building Management System integration.
• EMC design and electromagnetic interference mitigation.
• Communication protocols – Profibus, fieldbus, Ethernet.
• Green building design and energy‑efficiency solutions.