2024/12/17 Reference Number EEHVMVO Description OBJECTIVES
The Electrical Engineer – HV and MV Operations will serve as the primary interface between the local electricity utility provider (Municipality/Eskom) and Teraco's Data Centre Operations, Design, and Build teams. Ensures optimum, efficient and reliable performance, maintenance and timely repair of Distribution Systems including Distribution Substations (132kV/33kV/11kV/6.6kV) feeding Teraco Transformer. This role requires an experienced electrical engineer with deep knowledge of utility operations, substations, high-voltage (HV) and medium-voltage (MV) systems, along with the diplomatic acumen to navigate municipal departments effectively. Utility supply to Teraco comes via 7 substations with a total scale of more than 400MVA.
MAIN FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
Utility Liaison:
Act as the main point of contact between Teraco and the local electricity utility provider
Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders within the local utility to implement strategies to streamline communication
Proactively escalate and track progress on electrical supply failures, collaborating with Eskom and/or Municipal Energy Department teams to ensure timely resolution.
Regularly monitor and report on third-party performance.
Technical Oversight:
Monitor and evaluate the performance of utility operated (Eskom/Municipality) Distribution Systems supplying power to Teraco data centres.
Provide technical oversight for the completion of outstanding substation projects, including switchgear upgrades, transformer installations, and GIS (Gas-Insulated Switchgear) maintenance.
Highlight and resolve utility related challenges that impact the Teraco's power availability and operational costs.
Identify areas of energy efficiency and reliability improvement for Utility Distribution Systems (e.g. HV/MV Lines, GISs, HV/MV switchgear, Transformers & batteries, protection) including innovative technologies and practices.
Perform regular equipment inspections to identify and address potential issues proactively to reduce impact on HV/MV transformers, switchgear and associated components. Oversee annual electrical maintenance shutdown to ensure time efficiency and appropriate level of maintenance at substation level.
Drive the transformation from reactive to preventative maintenance related to utility environments/infrastructure.
Support Municipal Energy Department to ensure all electrical systems are maintained in accordance with Municipal standards, International best practices and OEM requirements.
Bridge the skills gap between Teraco and local electricity utility providers.
Serve as 3rd line escalation for complex technical escalations related to utility environments/infrastructure and collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve emergencies promptly to minimize impact.
Deep involvement in RCAs and tracking of correctives related to utility environments/infrastructure.
Co-ordinates own activities with Data Centre Operations. Requirements
SKILLS REQUIREMENT
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
High energy level
Deep troubleshooting capability
Ability to read and understand technical documents, processes and procedures.
Good planning skills
Proactive problem solver and quick response to potentially critical situations
Ability to work independently & a positive team player
Conducts oneself professionally, exhibits high levels of tolerance and patience
Responsible for continued learning and self-development
Comprehend, and follow work plans, sequence of operations, standard operating procedures, and process flow diagrams
Coaching and mentoring of technical team members
Advanced Microsoft Office skills.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure during emergencies.
Knowledge of SCADA and how it works
QUALIFICIATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
A relevant bachelor’s degree (e.g. Electrical Engineering)
Proficient knowledge of substation design, operation and maintenance including switchgear, transformers, HV/MV, and GIS systems
Relevant Electrical certifications or Government Certificate of Competency
Registered with Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
Minimum of 5 years’ experience in HV/MV systems in a power utility distribution company (e.g., Eskom or Municipal Energy Department)
Proven track record of engaging with Utility stakeholders to achieve infrastructure improvements.
Excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills to navigate departmental dynamics and influence decision-making.
Own transport. Note: may include travel to various sites. Local via own transport.
Work Level Senior Job Type Permanent Salary Market Related EE Position No Location Gauteng