Maintenance Engineer Substations

Job Summary

The Uganda Electricity Transmission Company (UETCL) is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Maintenance Engineer for Substations to join its technical team in Kampala. This full-time role is critical to ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of the national power transmission infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in electrical engineering, with specialized experience in the maintenance of power transformers and high voltage switchgear. This position demands a proactive leader who can manage both preventive and corrective maintenance programs, respond to emergencies, and uphold the highest standards of health and safety compliance across all substation locations.

Key Responsibilities

Execute comprehensive preventive and corrective maintenance programs for all substation equipment, including power transformers, circuit breakers, disconnectors, and high voltage switchgear.

Develop and implement detailed preventative maintenance schedules to minimize downtime and extend equipment life cycle, ensuring alignment with UETCL operational goals.

Respond promptly and effectively to all breakdowns and emergency repair requests, performing root cause analysis to prevent recurrence and restore service rapidly.

Perform routine inspections of all electrical and mechanical systems, identifying potential issues before they escalate into major failures.

Monitor equipment performance continuously, analyze operational data, and recommend improvements to enhance system reliability and efficiency.

Ensure strict compliance with all safety standards, regulations, and UETCL policies, conducting thorough risk assessments before any maintenance activity begins.

Maintain safe working practices at all times, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and adherence to lockout/tagout procedures.

Compile and update a comprehensive database of all substation drawings, plant equipment, tools, and consumables inventory to support efficient maintenance operations.

Maintain accurate and detailed maintenance logs and technical documentation for all work performed, including inspection reports, repair records, and equipment histories.

Prepare and submit detailed job reports, as well as weekly and monthly maintenance progress and activity reports, to senior management and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications and Skills

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from a recognized and accredited institution.

A minimum of three years of proven experience in the maintenance of power transformers and high voltage switchgear within a utility or heavy industrial environment.

Willingness and ability to work hours outside the normal working schedule, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, to respond to emergencies and perform critical maintenance.

Demonstrated integrity, high motivation, innovative thinking, and a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Strong team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

Willingness to work anywhere in the country, as assigned, including remote or rural substation locations.

Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical diagrams, schematics, and technical drawings.

Solid understanding of electrical installation practices, power and energy solutions, and general engineering principles.

Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and basic office software for reporting and documentation.