Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 720,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Pension fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer in Cape Town, offering a hybrid work model that combines in-office collaboration with remote flexibility. The role focuses on designing, developing, and integrating electrical/electronic systems for next-generation vehicles, including BMS, ADAS, and infotainment, with cross-functional teamwork to ensure safety and performance.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, 4+ years of automotive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 4+ years in automotive electrical design and development.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical architectures for vehicle platforms including wiring and power distribution.
• Specify automotive-grade ECUs, sensors, actuators, and components.
• Integrate electrical systems with mechanical and software modules.

Skills

Electrical design

Automotive systems

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Altium Designer

Mentor Graphics Capital

Zuken E3

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering force in the automotive industry, renowned for its cutting-edge vehicle development and manufacturing. We are seeking an innovative and meticulous Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer to join our team in Cape Town, Western Cape. This role is offered on a hybrid basis, combining essential in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. You will be instrumental in designing, developing, and integrating complex electrical and electronic systems for next-generation vehicles. This includes everything from power distribution and battery management systems to infotainment and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, software developers, and product designers, to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance. Your expertise will directly impact the safety, efficiency, and user experience of our vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical architectures for new vehicle platforms, including wiring harnesses, connectors, and power distribution systems.
• Specify and select automotive-grade electronic components, sensors, actuators, and ECUs.
• Integrate electrical systems with mechanical components and software modules, ensuring compatibility and performance.
• Develop and execute test plans for electrical systems, including functional testing, performance testing, and environmental testing.
• Troubleshoot electrical system issues during prototype development, testing, and production phases.
• Create and maintain detailed design documentation, schematics, BOMs, and engineering drawings using CAD and ECAD software.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure component quality and timely delivery.
• Contribute to the development of system requirements, specifications, and validation strategies.
• Stay current with emerging automotive electrical and electronic technologies, including advancements in EVs, ADAS, and connectivity.
• Participate in design reviews and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards (e.g., ISO 26262 for functional safety).

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in automotive electrical systems design and development.
• Strong knowledge of automotive electrical principles, power electronics, and control systems.
• Experience with automotive communication protocols such as CAN, LIN, Ethernet, and FlexRay.
• Proficiency in using ECAD tools (e.g., Altium Designer, Mentor Graphics Capital, Zuken E3).
• Familiarity with simulation and analysis tools for electrical systems.
• Understanding of automotive functional safety standards (ISO 26262).
• Experience with vehicle testing and validation methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with experience in a hybrid work environment.
• Knowledge of battery management systems (BMS) and electric vehicle powertrains is a plus.
• Ability to travel occasionally for supplier meetings or vehicle testing if required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid, life insurance, and a generous retirement fund contribution. Employees benefit from a hybrid work model promoting work-life balance, professional development opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. You will be part of an innovative and collaborative engineering culture, working on exciting projects that shape the future of mobility. This role provides a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the automotive sector.