Senior Electrician (Post Level 9): Engineering and Sustainability (Job ID 6578) - (2267)

University of the Free State · Free State

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Duties and responsibilities

Solar Maintenance Management

  • Perform routine inspections, testing, and preventative maintenance of solar PV systems, inverters, batteries, and associated infrastructure.
  • Identify and rectify faults to optimise system performance and energy generation.
  • Coordinate repairs and component replacements with service providers.
  • Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules.
  • Monitor compliance with applicable electrical standards, manufacturer specifications, and safety regulations.
  • Compile quotations, evaluate service provider submissions, and oversee implementation of approved works.
  • Maintain accurate maintenance records, reports, and performance data.
  • Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 regulations.

Fire Detection System Maintenance

  • Inspect, test, and maintain fire detection and alarm systems in accordance with statutory requirements.
  • Monitor and maintain fire panels through the NIMBUS monitoring platform.
  • Coordinate servicing, certification processes, and compliance audits.
  • Investigate faults and ensure corrective action is implemented promptly.
  • Maintain inspection records and compliance documentation.
  • Assist with fire safety awareness and training initiatives for staff, students, and contractors.
  • Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and manage implementation processes.

Metering Infrastructure Management

  • Install, inspect, test, and maintain electrical metering systems.
  • Verify meter accuracy and investigate discrepancies.
  • Collect, analyse, and report metering data to support billing, monitoring, and energy management objectives.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Coordinate maintenance and upgrades through approved procurement processes.
  • Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and oversee implementation.

Microgrid Monitoring and Optimisation

  • Monitor microgrid operations, including generation, storage, and load distribution systems.
  • Investigate alarms, abnormalities, and operational inefficiencies.
  • Analyse operational data and recommend optimisation initiatives.
  • Coordinate fault resolution and system improvements with internal stakeholders and service providers.
  • Compile operational and performance reports.
  • Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 regulations.

UPS System Management

  • Manage the operation, maintenance, testing, and reliability of UPS systems.
  • Ensure uninterrupted backup power availability for critical infrastructure.
  • Monitor battery health, load capacities, and overall system performance.
  • Coordinate battery replacement programmes and system upgrades.
  • Maintain compliance with safety standards and documentation requirements.
  • Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and oversee implementation.

High Voltage Switching Operations

  • Perform authorised high-voltage switching activities in accordance with approved procedures and permits.
  • Ensure strict compliance with lockout, tagout, isolation, and safety protocols.
  • Coordinate switching activities with maintenance, operational, and project teams.
  • Respond effectively to electrical emergencies and fault conditions.
  • Maintain accurate switching logs and safety records.
  • Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations for High Voltage Systems OHSR-HVS.

Maintenance and Project Integration

  • Act as the technical liaison between maintenance and project teams.
  • Provide maintenance and operational input during project planning, design, and implementation phases.
  • Facilitate seamless project handovers into operational environments.
  • Identify lifecycle, maintenance, and operational risks associated with new installations.
  • Support commissioning, testing, and acceptance of completed projects.
  • Evaluate quotations and manage implementation processes.

Mentorship and Skills Development

  • Provide technical leadership, supervision, and mentorship to electricians and apprentices.
  • Support training, skills development, and professional growth initiatives.
  • Assess competency levels and provide ongoing performance feedback.
  • Promote safe work practices and compliance with electrical regulations.
  • Assist in developing training programmes and workplace learning opportunities.

Inherent Job Requirements

  • Matric/Grade 12 attach a copy.
  • Electrical N3 Certificate or higher attach a copy.
  • Minimum of two 2 years' relevant working experience as a qualified electrician.
  • Qualified Installation Electrician attach proof of qualification.
  • Valid Wireman's Licence attach proof.
  • Valid driver's licence attach proof.

Recommendations

  • ​​​​​​​Experience in solar photovoltaic systems, electrical distribution systems, fire detection systems, metering systems, UPS systems, and microgrid operations.
  • Experience in contractor management, quotation evaluation, and project coordination.
  • Experience in high-voltage switching operations and electrical compliance management.
  • Training in Occupational Health and Safety regulations and electrical safety practices.
  • SANS 10142 compliance knowledge and application.
  • Three 3 to five 5 years' relevant working experience as an electrician.

Competencies Key Competencies Required:

Results Orientated

  • The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
  • The ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

Strategic Thinking

  • The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
  • The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.

Business Acumen

  • The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.

Leading

  • The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.
  • The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

Building Coalitions

  • The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
  • The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.

Closing date: 9 September 2026

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