Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer in Bloemfontein to design, validate, and integrate advanced electrical architectures for next‑generation vehicles. You will specify components, develop ECUs, and ensure robust communication across CAN, LIN, and Ethernet in a collaborative, cross‑functional team.

The role requires a strong theoretical foundation in electrical engineering with 5+ years in automotive electrical design, plus experience with CATIA Electrical, EPLAN,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical/Automotive Engineering.
• 5+ years in automotive electrical systems design and development.
• Proficiency with electrical CAD software (CATIA Electrical, EPLAN, Mentor Graphics).
• Strong understanding of CAN, LIN, and Automotive Ethernet protocols.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical system architectures for new vehicle platforms, including wiring harnesses and control modules.
• Specify components to meet performance, reliability, and cost targets.
• Integrate ECUs and ensure CAN/LIN/Ethernet communication works correctly.
• Develop and execute validation plans (simulation, bench testing, vehicle tests).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches.
• Create and maintain technical documentation (schematics, specs, test reports).
• Stay updated on trends in automotive electrical systems (electrification, autonomous driving).

Skills

Electrical CAD

CAN/LIN/Automotive Ethernet

BMS and power electronics

Team collaboration

Analytical problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering (Automotive)

Tools

CATIA Electrical

EPLAN

Mentor Graphics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive manufacturing and R&D firm based in Bloemfontein , is seeking a talented Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer to join their innovative team. This role is crucial for the development and integration of advanced electrical and electronic systems within next-generation vehicles. You will be instrumental in designing, testing, and validating electrical architectures, ensuring seamless functionality and compliance with automotive standards. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical foundation in electrical engineering combined with practical experience in the automotive industry. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting‑edge projects, contributing significantly to the future of automotive technology. We are looking for a proactive individual eager to tackle complex engineering challenges in a dynamic and forward‑thinking environment located in the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical system architectures for new vehicle platforms, including wiring harnesses, power distribution, and control modules.
• Specify and select electrical components, ensuring they meet performance, reliability, and cost targets.
• Integrate various electronic control units (ECUs) and ensure communication protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN, Ethernet) function correctly.
• Develop and execute validation plans for electrical systems, including simulation, bench testing, and vehicle‑level testing.
• Troubleshoot electrical system issues identified during development, testing, or production phases.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including mechanical engineering, software development, and manufacturing, to ensure successful product launch.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including schematics, specifications, and test reports.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in automotive electrical systems, such as electrification and autonomous driving.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive electrical systems design and development.
• Proficiency with electrical CAD software (e.g., CATIA Electrical, EPLAN, Mentor Graphics) and simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Automotive Ethernet).
• Experience with power electronics, battery management systems (BMS), and charging systems is advantageous.
• Knowledge of automotive cybersecurity principles is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team‑oriented environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance‑based bonuses. Opportunities for professional growth through advanced training programs and attendance at industry conferences are provided. Employees will have access to state‑of‑the‑art engineering tools and facilities in Bloemfontein . A hybrid work model allows for a balance between in‑office collaboration and remote flexibility. Be part of a pioneering team shaping the future of automotive technology in the Free State .