Planning Engineer Opex job at Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL)

Background

The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) is a limited liability company incorporated in Uganda under the Companies Act. UEDCL owns the 33KV and below voltage electricity distribution networks. The company sales and distributes electricity in Uganda as per ERA License issued on 31 December 2024 covering over 135 political districts, operates a modern pole plant at Lugogo, and executes key rural electrification schemes on behalf of the Government of Uganda.

UEDCL is seeking to recruit qualified, competent and highly motivated Ugandans to fill the following positions;

Position: Planning Engineer (Opex)

Reports to: Senior Planning Engineer (Opex)

Department: Planning & Design

Duty Station: Engineering

Job Purpose

To develop and implement plans for new electricity distribution schemes, ensuring optimal design and efficient utilization of resources. The Opex Network Engineer is responsible for conducting feasibility studies, designing systems, and coordinating with stakeholders to ensure timely and cost- effective delivery of new projects.

Impact

The role holder is critical in expanding the electricity network to meet growing demand, improving service delivery, and supporting the company's strategic objectives.

Key Result Areas

Feasibility Studies

a. Conduct technical and economic feasibility studies for proposed Opex schemes.

b. Prepare detailed reports with recommendations based on findings.

System Design

a. Develop designs for Opex schemes, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

b. Optimize designs for cost-effectiveness, reliability, and scalability.

Planning and Coordination

a. Prepare detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.

b. Collaborate with internal departments and external stakeholders to align planning activities.

Regulatory Compliance

a. Ensure all planning and design activities comply with national regulations and company policies.

b. Prepare and submit required documentation to regulatory authorities.

Project Monitoring

a. Track the progress of Opex schemes against the project plan.

b. Identify and address potential issues to ensure timely delivery.

Stakeholder Engagement

a. Liaise with government agencies, contractors, and local communities to address concerns and secure approvals.

b. Provide technical support to stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.

Innovation and Technology

a. Explore and recommend new technologies and methodologies to enhance the efficiency of planning and design processes.

b. Implement digital tools and systems to streamline workflows.

Risk Management

a. Identify risks associated with Opex schemes and develop mitigation strategies.

b. Ensure contingency plans are in place to address potential disruptions.

Reporting

a. Prepare and present periodic reports on project progress, risks, and performance metrics.

b. Maintain accurate records of planning and design activities.

Other Duties

a. Perform other duties as assigned by the Planning & Design Manager or relevant authority.

Expected Output

Comprehensive feasibility studies and reports for Opex schemes.

Detailed and compliant designs for electricity distribution schemes.

Accurate and actionable project plans.

Timely completion of Opex schemes within budget.

Effective collaboration with stakeholders and regulators.

Implementation of innovative technologies in planning and design processes.

Risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.

Accurate records and regular progress reports.

Person Specifications

Academic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, or a related field.

Experience

At least 1 year of experience in power systems planning, design, or a related role within the electricity sector.

Demonstrated experience in managing new electricity distribution schemes.

Competencies

Strong knowledge of power distribution systems and design principles.

Proficiency in using planning and design software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, Dig Silent Power Factory).

Excellent project management and organizational skills.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Commitment to safety and quality assurance.

Working Environment

Office-based role with regular field visits to project sites.

Collaboration with cross-functional teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Dynamic environment requiring adaptability and proactive problem-solving.

• Conduct technical and economic feasibility studies for proposed Opex schemes.
• Prepare detailed reports with recommendations based on findings.
• Develop designs for Opex schemes, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Optimize designs for cost-effectiveness, reliability, and scalability.
• Prepare detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with internal departments and external stakeholders to align planning activities.
• Ensure all planning and design activities comply with national regulations and company policies.
• Prepare and submit required documentation to regulatory authorities.
• Track the progress of Opex schemes against the project plan.
• Identify and address potential issues to ensure timely delivery.
• Liaise with government agencies, contractors, and local communities to address concerns and secure approvals.
• Provide technical support to stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
• Explore and recommend new technologies and methodologies to enhance the efficiency of planning and design processes.
• Implement digital tools and systems to streamline workflows.
• Identify risks associated with Opex schemes and develop mitigation strategies.
• Ensure contingency plans are in place to address potential disruptions.
• Prepare and present periodic reports on project progress, risks, and performance metrics.
• Maintain accurate records of planning and design activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Planning & Design Manager or relevant authority.

• Strong knowledge of power distribution systems and design principles.
• Proficiency in using planning and design software (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, Dig Silent Power Factory).
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Commitment to safety and quality assurance.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 1 year of experience in power systems planning, design, or a related role within the electricity sector.
• Demonstrated experience in managing new electricity distribution schemes.