Automotive Systems Engineer - Electrical Focus

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Systems Engineer specialized in electrical systems to join its client in Tembisa, Gauteng. The role focuses on designing, developing, and integrating electrical and electronic systems for next-generation vehicles, ensuring performance, reliability, and safety.

You will collaborate with mechanical, software, and quality teams to deliver robust solutions from concept to production, with a hybrid work model balancing on-site collaboration in Tembisa and remote

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical or Automotive Engineering.
• 5+ years in automotive electrical systems engineering.
• Expertise in CAN, LIN and Ethernet communication protocols.
• Experience with EPLAN, Capital Harness and MATLAB/Simulink.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate electrical systems and components for automotive applications.
• Create wiring diagrams and harness designs using CAD software.
• Specify automotive-grade components and ensure standards compliance.
• Develop and execute test plans for electrical systems.
• Collaborate with ECU software teams for hardware/software integration.
• Support IATF 16949 quality standards.

Skills

Electrical architectures

CAN protocol

LIN protocol

Ethernet

Power electronics

BMS knowledge

Analytical skills

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Bachelor/Master in Electrical Engineering

Tools

EPLAN

Capital Harness

MATLAB/Simulink

Schematic capture

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a forward-thinking automotive component manufacturer seeking a talented Automotive Systems Engineer with a strong specialization in electrical systems to join their innovative team in Tembisa, Gauteng. This role is central to the design, development, and integration of cutting-edge electrical and electronic systems for next-generation vehicles. You will be instrumental in ensuring the performance, reliability, and safety of these complex systems. The position demands a deep understanding of automotive electrical architectures, wiring harnesses, electronic control units (ECUs), and power management. Working in a collaborative environment, you will interface with cross-functional teams including mechanical engineering, software development, and quality assurance to deliver robust automotive solutions from concept to production. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the evolving landscape of automotive technology in Tembisa.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate electrical systems and components for automotive applications.
• Create and maintain detailed schematics, wiring diagrams, and harness designs using CAD software.
• Specify and select automotive-grade electronic components, ensuring compliance with industry standards and performance requirements.
• Develop and execute test plans for electrical systems, including functional testing, performance testing, and environmental testing.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical system issues identified during development, testing, or production phases.
• Collaborate with ECU software development teams to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software.
• Participate in design reviews and provide technical expertise on electrical system design and integration.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of electrical system design processes and methodologies.
• Ensure adherence to automotive quality standards such as IATF 16949.

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 engineering.
• Proven expertise in automotive electrical architectures, including CAN, LIN, and Ethernet communication protocols.
• Proficiency in electrical CAD tools (e.g., EPLAN, Capital Harness), simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink), and schematic capture software.
• Strong understanding of power electronics, battery management systems (BMS), and high-voltage systems.
• Experience with automotive component selection and supplier management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with experience working in cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with automotive safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262) is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for professional development within a leading automotive technology company. This role provides exposure to exciting projects and the chance to shape the future of automotive electrical systems. The hybrid work model offers flexibility, balancing on-site collaboration in Tembisa, Gauteng with remote work, supporting a healthy work-life balance. Join a team dedicated to innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.