Associate Project Engineer - Sectional Drive Systems

Pty; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company in Johannesburg is seeking a Project Engineer to manage and execute ABB sectional drive solutions. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and at least 3-5 years of experience in project engineering. Responsibilities include overseeing project execution, technical planning, and commissioning processes. This role offers a hybrid work model and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in project engineering with a focus on industrial automation.
• Proven track record in managing end-to-end project execution.
• Strong project management skills to plan, execute, and monitor projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute projects involving ABB sectional drive solutions.
• Assist with technical planning and execution of projects.
• Supervise the commissioning of ABB sectional drive systems.

Skills

Project / Program Management

Primavera

Microsoft Project

IT Project Management

Data Collection

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field

Tools

ABB drive configuration and commissioning tools (e.g., Drive Composer)

Microsoft Access

Prolog

Job description

Your Role and Responsibilities

In this role you will be responsible for managing and executing projects involving the installation, commissioning, integration and optimization of ABB sectional drive solutions. This role requires technical expertise in automation systems, project management skills and the ability to work closely with customers and internal teams to ensure project objectives are met on time, within scope and within budget. You will be expected to assist with all technical aspects of the project lifecycle from design and planning to execution and final handover.

The work model for the role is : Hybrid

You will be mainly accountable for :

• Assist with the technical planning and execution of ABB sectional drive projects ensuring adherence to customer requirements, timelines and budgets.
• Develop and manage project schedules, resource allocation and work breakdown structures. Prepare technical documentation including system designs, specifications, drawings and reports.
• Ensure the technical feasibility of project designs, identifying potential risks or issues and providing solutions before execution.
• Design and specify ABB sectional drive systems (including variable frequency drives, motors, control panels, etc.) according to project specifications.
• Provide input on system architecture and design considering customer requirements, operational constraints and industry best practices.
• Supervise the commissioning of ABB sectional drive systems including on‑site installation, configuration, testing and troubleshooting.
• Ensure systems are tested for functionality, safety and compliance with relevant standards.
• Provide guidance and support to on‑site engineers during the testing and commissioning process.
• Monitor project progress and performance, ensuring that all technical aspects align with the project scope and timelines.
• Ensure all project activities comply with safety regulations, industry standards and ABB’s internal guidelines.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure all installations meet regulatory and safety standards (e.g., IEC, UL, NFPA, ISO).

Our Team Dynamics

You will join a talented and driven team where you will be able to thrive and grow.

Qualifications for the role

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
• Minimum 3‑5 years of experience in project engineering with a focus on industrial automation, sectional drives or control systems.
• Proven track record in managing end‑to‑end project execution including design, installation, commissioning and optimization of ABB sectional drive systems or similar solutions.
• Experience working with ABB drives (e.g., ACS580, ACS800), motors and automation control systems is highly desirable.
• In‑depth knowledge of ABB sectional drive systems and related automation technologies (variable frequency drives, motors, PLCs, control panels, etc.).
• Strong understanding of system integration, control system architecture and electrical design.
• Proficiency with ABB drive configuration and commissioning tools (e.g., Drive Composer).
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP).
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to plan, execute and monitor projects.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines.
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills with a hands‑on approach to technical issues.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact with clients, vendors and internal teams effectively.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage customer expectations in dynamic environments.
• Customer‑focused with a strong service orientation and the ability to build long‑term relationships.
• ABB‑specific certifications for drives, motors or automation systems.
• Safety certifications such as IECEx or NEBOSH would be advantageous.
• You are at ease communicating with various levels in the organization internally and cross‑functionally.
• You are at ease communicating in English.

Whats in it for you

We want you to bring your full self to work – your ideas, your energy, your ambition. You’ll have the tools and freedom to grow your skills, shape your path and take on challenges that matter. Here your work creates an impact you can see and feel every day.

Benefits

From well‑being to retirement, ABB offers benefits that support every stage of your career.

More about us

We value people from different backgrounds. Could this be your story? Apply today or visit to read more about us and learn about the impact of our solutions across the globe. #MyABBStory

Key Skills

• Project / Program Management
• Primavera
• IT Project Management
• Microsoft Access
• Public Health
• Data Collection
• PMBOK
• Mobile Devices
• Maximo
• Prolog
• Microsoft Project

Employment Type : Full‑Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1

Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged candidates in line with the company’s employment equity targets.