Electrical Design Engineer - Industrial Automation Systems

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 720,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Flexible hours

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Electrical Design Engineer to design and develop bespoke electrical control systems for automated manufacturing, with a remote team supporting global projects focused on Port Elizabeth and Eastern Cape clients.

The role requires strong CAD skills, PLC/HMI integration knowledge, and the ability to work autonomously in a remote setting across international standards, while delivering detailed schematics and documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in electrical design engineering, preferably in the industrial automation sector.
• Proficiency with electrical CAD software for schematic generation and panel layout.
• Knowledge of PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), VFDs, and various industrial sensors and actuators.
• Understanding of Profinet and Ethernet/IP industrial networks; ability to read P&IDs and PFDs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for remote collaboration.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work with minimal supervision in a remote capacity.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using CAD software like EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical.
• Specify PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and switchgear for reliability and compatibility.
• Collaborate with software engineers and project managers to integrate designs with control logic.
• Create BOMs, installation guides, and test procedures.
• Provide remote technical support during commissioning and assist site technicians.
• Ensure designs comply with IEC, UL, CE and client requirements.
• Participate in design reviews and drive continuous improvement of processes and standards.
• Maintain clear communication with clients and internal teams throughout projects.

Skills

PLC systems knowledge

Remote collaboration

Communication skills

Project multitasking

Self-motivation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic innovator in industrial automation solutions, is seeking a talented Electrical Design Engineer to join their remote team, supporting projects globally but with a focus on clients in the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape region. This role is centered around the design and development of bespoke electrical control systems for automated manufacturing processes. You will be responsible for creating detailed electrical schematics, selecting components, and ensuring designs meet client specifications and international standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills in electrical design, PLC/HMI integration knowledge, and the ability to work autonomously in a remote setting. This is a fantastic opportunity to leverage your expertise in electrical engineering and automation within a flexible, forward-thinking company.

Key Responsibilities

• Design electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and wiring diagrams for industrial automation systems using CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Specify electrical components, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and switchgear, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
• Collaborate closely with software engineers and project managers to ensure seamless integration of electrical designs with control system logic.
• Develop technical documentation, including Bills of Materials (BOMs), installation guides, and test procedures.
• Provide remote technical support during the commissioning phase of projects, assisting site technicians.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., IEC, UL, CE) and client-specific requirements.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute to continuous improvement of design processes and standards.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with clients and internal teams throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in electrical design engineering, preferably within the industrial automation sector.
• Proficiency in using electrical CAD software for schematic generation and panel layout.
• Knowledge of PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), VFDs, and various industrial sensors and actuators.
• Understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Ability to interpret P&IDs and PFDs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective remote collaboration.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple design tasks concurrently.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work effectively with minimal supervision in a remote capacity.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and the ability to work from anywhere within South Africa, supporting clients in regions like Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. Our client provides opportunities for professional development, access to online training resources, and a collaborative virtual work environment. You will gain exposure to a diverse range of automation projects and technologies, enhancing your skill set. The company culture emphasizes work-life balance and empowers its employees to achieve their best.