About the Position

HVDC Senior/Principal System Design Consultant FlexGrid

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Business: Energy Systems

Position type: Full Time

Contract type: Permanent Employee

Job ID: 6116

Overview

We are the independent expert in assurance and risk management. Driven by our purpose, to safeguard life, property, and the environment, we empower our customers and their stakeholders with facts and reliable insights so that critical decisions can be made with confidence.

As a trusted voice for many of the world’s most successful organizations, we use our knowledge to advance safety and performance, set industry benchmarks, and inspire and invent solutions to tackle global transformations.

About Energy Systems

We help customers navigate the complex transition to a decarbonized and more sustainable energy future. We do this by assuring that energy systems work safely and effectively, using solutions that are increasingly digital. We also help industries and governments to navigate the many complex, interrelated transitions taking place globally and regionally, in the energy industry.

About the Role

Are you passionate about HVDC technology and the role it plays in advancing the energy transition? Join us at DNV as a Senior HVDC System Design Consultant – FlexGrid HV and play a key part in developing cutting-edge HVDC transmission solutions that enhance affordability, sustainability, and reliability in electricity networks worldwide.

Why DNV?

You will join our innovative global FlexGrid HV venture, dedicated to scaling up HVDC and FACTS technologies. We work with diverse clients-utilities, system operators, developers, investors, government agencies, EPCs, and OEMs-offering services that range from Technical Advisory and Owner’s Engineering to Independent Engineering. Your expertise will directly contribute to shaping the future of high-voltage electricity transmission.

Responsibilities

As our Senior HVDC System Design Consultant you will partner with colleagues on national and international projects, collaborating with teams across DNV in areas like system studies, electrical engineering, offshore wind, permitting, environmental impact analysis, and markets & risk. You provide your expert guidance to the customer, help design and implement HVDC systems that meet evolving industry needs. Lead and contribute to industry training courses, share insights through "lunch & learn" sessions, and represent DNV at conferences and in standards development forums.

Responsibilities you can expect are:

Design and Feasibility Studies: Create conceptual designs for HVDC and AC systems, conduct feasibility studies, and assess CAPEX, OPEX, losses, availability and constructability to meet customers’ unique transmission needs.
System and Equipment Design: Perform, develop and review electrical system studies, equipment design specs, and general arrangements for HVDC systems and substations.
System Studies and Modelling: Lead or review simulations and system studies, including dynamic modelling and stability analysis for HVDC systems.
Control and Protection Strategies: Develop and review strategies for HVDC multi-terminal projects, focusing on converter control, fault management, and grid code compliance.
Technical Negotiations and Testing: Prepare specifications, support tender processes, and witness commissioning tests (FAT/SAT), ensuring solutions meet customer and regulatory requirements.
Reporting and Commercial Offers: Deliver clear, high-quality reports and proposals to customers.

Besides projects you will also collaborate on developing our service portfolio, monitoring market trends, and contributing to annual planning. You will represent DNV at conferences, publish thought leadership, and engage in standardization initiatives (e.g., IEEE, IEC, CIGRE). You will build lasting relationships through business development with new and existing customers. Finally, you will coach and mentor junior consultants, guiding their technical career growth.

Requirements

We are looking for a collaborative professional who’s excited to contribute their expertise in HVDC system design. If you’re passionate about delivering innovative solutions, thrive in diverse teams, and enjoy making a real impact, this role is for you.

Additionally, we are looking for:

A university degree (preferably a master’s degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a related field) and have preferably 7 or more years of experience in HVDC projects, including the different project development phases.
You have solid technical knowledge of HVDC integration studies, software tools, and regulatory standards (e.g., IEC, CIGRE, IEEE).
You’re curious and solution-focused, using your expertise to create innovative ideas and drive opportunities.
You thrive in dynamic, diverse, and collaborative environments.
You’re a clear communicator who excels at simplifying complex concepts, and you’re open to traveling (up to 20%) to connect with clients, attend conferences, and visit project sites.

If you have experience with the following topics, that would be seen as beneficial:

Familiarity with multi-terminal HVDC systems, fault clearing strategies, multi-vendor interoperability, and HVDC equipment procurement processes and strategies.
Experience using industrial simulation tools (e.g., PSS®E, PSCAD, PSLF).

We Offer

As our new joiner to our FlexGrid venture, you will collaborate with skilled, passionate colleagues in a dynamic, international setting. Each day brings exciting challenges and opportunities to work with diverse topics, projects and clients. You will have flexibility to shape your role and make a real impact in the team and on our business. Additional benefits on offer:

Flexible work arrangements for better work-life balance
Generous Paid Leaves (Public Holidays, Annual Leave, Sick Leave, Maternity Leave, Paternity Leave, Moving House, Examination Leave, Family Responsibility Leave)
Medical benefits (Medical Examinations, Eye Tests, Audiometric Tests)
Pension and Insurance Policies (Private Medical Insurance)
Additional Benefits (Communication, Accommodation/Home Security, Memberships (professional/academic institutions, Gym & Sport Membership, Car Allowances)

Benefits may vary based on position, tenure/contract/grade level

About the Company

Since 1864 we’ve been dedicated to safeguarding life, property and the environment. Today we remain at the forefront of new technologies and techniques to help our customers transform for a more sustainable future.

At DNV you can expect to deliver career and industry defining work. You’ll be given the time to build your network, the resources to support your development, and the freedom to satisfy your curiosity and desire to learn.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

At DNV, our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is not only an ethical choice, but also a business decision.

Diversity, fairness, and a sense of belonging are a source of strength for our people, our business, and our customers, and help us to deliver on our purpose, vision, and values.

Application Process

You can apply directly through our careers page by submitting your CV and any other documents we require (i.e. university diplomas/transcripts; visas; previous employment reference letters*). Make sure your application is fully completed, and you tailor it to the specific job listing.

FAQs

How can I find job openings that fit my skills and interests?

Explore our official job search page where you can use filters such as job type, location, and department to find roles that best match your qualifications and career aspirations.

What’s your application process like?

Is your recruitment process designed to be inclusive and accessible?

Yes, it is. We're an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all candidates. We’re happy to support your need for any adjustments during the application and hiring process. Share the details of what you need within your application.

What types of interviews might I undergo?

Depending on your role, our interview process may include initial phone screenings, video conferences, and in-person interviews, focusing on both your technical abilities and our shared values. You can ask your recruiter specifically about the interview process for your role.

How long does the hiring process typically take from application to decision?

The timeline can vary but we make every effort to reply to each candidate as soon as possible and keep everyone up-to-date with where they are in the recruitment process.

How do I know if a recruitment contact is legitimately from your company?

Official communication will come from our verified company email addresses. Carefully check any suspicious looking emails and if you have any doubts, don’t engage.

Are there any fees involved in your recruitment process?

No, we do not charge any fees at any stage of our recruitment process. All applications and interviews are free of charge, we will never ask you to pay any fees or make any payments – please be wary of any requests for payment as these are likely scams.

What should I do if I suspect a job scam?

If you encounter suspicious job postings or recruitment practices, do not provide personal information and contact your recruiter as soon as possible. We take these matters seriously. We will never ask you to pay any fees or make any payments part of our recruitment process.

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Disclaimer

Please beware of recruitment scams that pretend to be from DNV or its employees. We will never ask you to pay any fees or make any payments as part of our recruitment process.

HVDC Senior/Principal System Design Consultant FlexGrid

Job description

About the Position