Senior Electrical Design Engineer - Instrumentation & Control

Placements24; Waukee (IA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Design Engineer specializing in Instrumentation & Control for industrial processes. You will lead electrical design, create detailed schematics, select instrumentation, and configure PLCs/DCS with robust HMI/SCADA solutions.

You will oversee site installation and commissioning, mentor junior staff, and ensure safety/regulatory compliance across projects in a dynamic consultancy setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• 8+ years in electrical design for industrial instrumentation and control.
• Strong PLC/DCS programming and HMI/SCADA development experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design and engineering for instrumentation and control systems across industrial projects.
• Develop electrical schematics, loop diagrams, panel layouts, and wiring schedules using CAD tools.
• Program and configure PLCs/DCS from leading vendors and develop HMI/SCADA screens.
• Oversee site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of I&C systems.
• Mentor junior engineers and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Skills

Electrical design

Instrumentation & control

PLC programming

DCS programming

HMI/SCADA development

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent engineering consultancy serving the industrial sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Design Engineer with a specialization in Instrumentation & Control for their operations in Paarl, Western Cape . This critical role involves the design and implementation of sophisticated control systems and instrumentation for process industries, including food and beverage, chemical, and manufacturing. You will lead the electrical design aspects of projects, ensuring seamless integration of automation technologies. This is a hands‑on, office-based position that requires significant client interaction and project leadership. You will be instrumental in delivering robust and efficient automation solutions that enhance operational performance. Our client is committed to delivering high-quality engineering services and fostering long-term client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for instrumentation and control systems on diverse industrial projects.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, loop diagrams, panel layouts, and wiring schedules using CAD software.
• Select appropriate instrumentation, control valves, actuators, and safety interlock systems based on process requirements.
• Program and configure Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS) from leading vendors.
• Develop Human‑Machine Interface (HMI) screens and SCADA systems for process monitoring and operator control.
• Conduct technical reviews of designs and ensure compliance with project specifications and industry standards.
• Prepare Bill of Quantities (BOQ), specifications, and tender documents for control system hardware and software.
• Collaborate closely with process engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Oversee site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of instrumentation and control systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and designers.
• Ensure all designs adhere to relevant safety regulations and standards.

Requirements

Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, or equivalent qualification. Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in electrical design engineering, with a strong focus on industrial instrumentation and control systems. Proven expertise in PLC/DCS programming and HMI/SCADA development. In-depth knowledge of process instrumentation, control valves, and field instrumentation technologies. Experience with hazardous area classifications and intrinsic safety principles. Familiarity with international standards such as ISA, IEC, and SANS. Strong proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN). Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple project deliverables. Must be eligible to work in South Africa and available for site visits as needed.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits. Our client provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training programs, professional body memberships, and potential for international project involvement. The position is based in our well-equipped Paarl office, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment. Enjoy generous leave allowances and be part of a respected consultancy known for its technical expertise and commitment to client success.