Substation Manager

Cox is a global utility company in water and energy, that applies innovative technological solutions for sustainable development.

We are seeking an experienced Substation Manager to lead and supervise the construction of electrical substation projects in South Africa . The role is responsible for managing all on-site activities from project kick-off through completion, ensuring delivery in full compliance with contractual obligations, technical specifications, schedule, budget, quality, and Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) standards.

The Substation Manager acts as the company’s on-site representative, coordinating internal teams, subcontractors, suppliers, clients, and local authorities to ensure successful and safe project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise the construction of HV/MV electrical substation projects from mobilization to commissioning and handover.
• Monitor project execution against approved schedules, milestones, and budgets, identifying risks and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Represent COX on site before clients, consultants, authorities, and other stakeholders, fostering strong professional relationships.
• Ensure all construction works comply with approved designs, drawings, technical specifications, and applicable local and international standards.
• Lead, coordinate, and supervise site teams, subcontractors, and suppliers, ensuring clear objectives, roles, and performance expectations.
• Plan construction activities, including manpower, equipment, materials, logistics, and sequencing, to ensure efficient project execution.
• Control material management, stockpiling, tools, and equipment, ensuring proper use, safeguarding, and cost-efficient procurement.
• Ensure construction details are accurately reflected in drawings, redlines, and as-built documentation.
• Enforce and monitor compliance with HSE policies, including the implementation of Occupational Risk Prevention procedures in line with South African regulations.
• Ensure quality control, inspections, and testing activities are performed in accordance with project and contractual requirements.
• Support contract administration, including progress reporting, claims support, and variation management.
• Report regularly on site progress, risks, costs, and performance to Project Management and senior management.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent).
• Solid experience in electrical substation projects (HV/MV), preferably within EPC, utilities, or power transmission environments.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a similar construction or site management role, preferably in international projects.
• Knowledge of South African electrical, construction, and HSE regulations is highly valued.
• Fluency in English (mandatory).
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in multicultural and remote site environments with a hands-on, solution-oriented approach.