Electrical Design Engineer

Network Recruitment; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is looking for a Design Engineer to drive electrical and automation projects. This role involves designing systems, producing technical documentation, and collaborating with teams to troubleshoot and refine implementations. Candidates must have an electrical engineering qualification and at least 5 years of experience in system design. Proficiency in CAD tools is essential, along with strong problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years experience in electrical or automation system design.
• Proven proficiency in CAD tools for technical drawings and schematics.
• Solid understanding of electrical design principles and standards.

Responsibilities

• Analyse project requirements and develop system specifications.
• Design electrical layouts and automation solutions.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure design intent alignment.

Skills

CAD tools proficiency

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Electrical engineering qualification

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

Overview

The Design Engineer plays a pivotal role in driving the success of electrical and automation projects by transforming technical requirements into robust system designs and specifications. This role involves designing comprehensive electrical layouts, developing supporting technical documentation, and producing detailed engineering drawings that enable seamless execution. In addition to design work, the Design Engineer actively engages with Field Technicians and Engineers to solve complex challenges, ensuring that systems are implemented effectively and function reliably in demanding environments.

Approximately 60% of the role is focused on design work, while 40% involves field support and hands-on collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to troubleshoot, advise on, and refine systems during and post-deployment.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse project requirements and develop electrical and automation system specifications in line with customer and regulatory standards.
• Design electrical layouts and automation solutions, incorporating product integration, panel schematics, and cable routing.
• Generate detailed technical drawings and documentation for production, installation, and commissioning.
• Collaborate with sales, operations, and technical teams to ensure alignment of the design intent with commercial and operational objectives.
• Provide field-based technical support during system installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting phases.
• Resolve complex technical issues alongside Field Engineers, identifying root causes and recommending sustainable solutions.
• Maintain design records, revision histories, and project archives in accordance with engineering and quality management standards.
• Continuously improve design methodologies, drawing libraries, and component standards to enhance project delivery.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety codes, electrical regulations, and industry best practices.

Essential Requirements

• Electrical engineering qualification (BEng, or equivalent).
• Minimum of 5 years experience in electrical or automation system design within industrial or commercial sectors.
• Proven proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., EPLAN and AutoCAD Electrical) for producing technical drawings and schematics.
• Solid understanding of electrical design principles, standards (e.g., SANS and IEC), and protection methodologies.
• Practical working knowledge of power and automation systems.
• Ability to read, interpret, and create technical documentation and wiring diagrams.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a structured and analytical approach to technical challenges.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.