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Power Systems Jobs in Mining: What Engineers Need to Know About the Industry’s Future

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The mining industry is going through one of its biggest transformations in decades, and power systems engineers are right at the centre of it. Traditionally, mines relied on diesel generation or connection to the nearest HV network. But as costs rise, technology improves and ESG pressures increase, power supply is becoming more complex - and much more interesting!

For electrical engineers, this shift is creating both challenges and opportunities. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of the career curve and emerging electrical engineering job trends.

Renewables and Microgrids Are Moving from Trial to Mainstream

Ten years ago, “renewables on mine sites” was more of a pilot project than a serious energy solution. Fast-forward to today, and we’re seeing large-scale solar, wind and battery installations being integrated into operating mines.

The challenge, though, is designing and operating hybrid systems that can balance renewables with traditional thermal generation while ensuring reliability and grid stability. Engineers with microgrid and battery integration experience will be in strong demand as more mines look to cut fuel costs and emissions.

High Voltage Design and Expansion Remains Core

While the technology mix is evolving, the fundamentals of HV design are still critical. As mines expand deeper and further from infrastructure, the need for robust 11kV–132kV networks isn’t going anywhere.

Electrical engineers with experience in substation design, protection coordination, earthing and grid compliance will continue to have a steady pipeline of power systems jobs. In fact, many projects now require HV specialists who can bridge both the traditional and renewable sides of the system.

Digitalisation and Advanced Modelling Are Becoming Standard

Gone are the days when a load flow study in Excel was enough. Today’s power systems work demands advanced software and real-time insights.

DIgSILENT, PSCAD, ETAP and other modelling tools are now standard across major projects, and electrical engineers are expected to not just run simulations but interpret them for operational impact. Add to that the rise of digital twins, predictive maintenance and remote monitoring, and that power systems are becoming more data-driven than ever.

Decarbonisation Pressure Is Reshaping Project Priorities

It’s not just technology pushing this shift, it’s policy and ESG commitments too. Mining majors are under intense scrutiny from investors and governments to decarbonise operations. That’s driving projects focused on renewable feasibility, grid integration studies and energy efficiency audits.

Electrical engineers who understand both the technical and compliance sides of this transition - for example, grid connection approvals and renewable integration standards - will be particularly valuable.

Career Opportunities Are Expanding

The good news is that all of this means career opportunity, with power systems engineers being in demand across several sectors, including:

  • Consulting firms, where modelling, design and grid studies are critical.

  • Owner-operators, who need in-house expertise for ongoing operations and project delivery.

  • EPCs, delivering turnkey solutions from substation builds to renewable integration.

Electrical engineers in mining jobs outlook

Specialists in protection, HV project delivery and commissioning are especially tough to source right now.

The future of mining is more electrified, decentralised and digitised than ever before. For electrical engineers, that means now is the time to upskill in hybrid power systems, HV design and advanced modelling tools. Engineers who adapt quickly will be in the strongest position to take advantage of the next wave of mining projects.

If you’re a power systems engineer considering your next move whether it’s stepping into renewables, broadening your HV expertise or leading major mining projects, get in touch with Tarryn Witter to talk through where the jobs opportunities are or search current jobs.

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