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.