Electrical Engineering Lead - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 130,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Electrical Engineering Lead in Queenstown, Eastern Cape to spearhead the design and implementation of complex automation systems for manufacturing. You will lead a team of electrical engineers, ensuring high-quality, safe solutions aligned with project goals and client specs.

You will guide technical decisions, drive project execution, and foster engineering excellence. Strong leadership, communication, and PLC/CAD expertise are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering required.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in electrical engineering with focus on industrial automation.
• Proven experience with PLC-based control systems and electrical CAD software.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of industrial automation systems, including PLC-based control systems.
• Oversee electrical schematics, control panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and BOMs.
• Specify and select electrical components (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, safety relays).
• Ensure designs meet IEC, ISO, and safety standards.
• Mentor engineers and technicians, and collaborate with mechanical, software, and project teams.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Industrial automation

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) or Pr. Tech. Eng registration preferred

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Siemens PLC

Rockwell Automation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in specialized industrial automation solutions, is seeking an experienced Electrical Engineering Lead for their facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This senior role requires a dynamic individual to spearhead the electrical design and implementation of complex automation systems for manufacturing and processing industries. You will be responsible for leading a team of electrical engineers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, reliable, and safe electrical solutions that meet project objectives and client specifications. This is a challenging yet rewarding position for a seasoned professional looking to make a significant impact within a growing company that values innovation and technical expertise. The successful candidate will play a key role in technical decision‑making, project execution, and fostering a culture of engineering excellence. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving project success and maintaining our client's competitive edge.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical engineering design and development of industrial automation systems, including PLC-based control systems.
• Oversee the design of electrical schematics, control panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Specify and select electrical components such as PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and safety relays.
• Ensure electrical designs adhere to relevant industry standards (e.g., IEC, SANS) and safety regulations.
• Manage and mentor a team of electrical engineers and technicians, providing technical guidance and support.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers to ensure integrated system solutions.
• Provide technical expertise during the assembly, installation, testing, and commissioning phases of automation projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical and control system issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in electrical engineering, with a strong focus on industrial automation and control systems.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing PLC-based control systems (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation).
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking, safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849), and VFD technology.
• Excellent leadership, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage technical projects and lead engineering teams.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) or Professional Engineering Technologist (Pr. Tech. Eng) registration is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• This role is based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, providing an opportunity to contribute to industrial development in the region.
• Employees benefit from ongoing professional development and training opportunities, fostering career growth.

Join a dynamic and innovative company that values technical expertise and offers a challenging and rewarding career path.