Principal Electrical Engineer

A leading engineering firm specialising in distributed energy solutions is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer (or a highly experienced Senior Electrical Engineer ready to step up) to join their Adelaide-based team. This is a pivotal leadership role focused on high-voltage (HV) systems and generator protection schemes within complex power generation projects.

Join a global specialist in the engineering, installation, and maintenance of gas-fueled power generation systems, providing energy-efficient solutions across diverse sectors.

Role Overview

As Principal Electrical Engineer, you will lead the electrical engineering function, providing technical direction and ensuring the successful delivery of HV electrical systems and protection solutions. You’ll work closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver turnkey energy projects that meet the highest standards of safety, reliability, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and review of HV primary and secondary systems.
• Develop and implement generator protection schemes.
• Specify and configure protection relays.
• Conduct protection coordination studies and fault analysis.
• Ensure compliance with Australian grid codes and utility protection standards.
• Integrate protection systems with SCADA and control systems.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers within the electrical team.
• Collaborate with project managers, mechanical engineers, and clients to deliver integrated solutions.
• Support commissioning and troubleshooting activities across project sites.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (Chartered status preferred).
• Extensive experience in HV electrical systems and power generation.
• Strong expertise in generator protection and control systems.
• Proficiency in protection standards (e.g., AS/NZS 2081, IEC 60255).
• Experience with synchronous generator protection in HV environments.
• Familiarity with gas or diesel engine-based generation systems is highly desirable.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.