Electrical & Instrumentation Engineer

Assign Services (Pty) Ltd - JHB; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading tissue manufacturing company located in Kempton Park is seeking a highly capable Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer. The role involves managing the E&I team, overseeing maintenance operations, and implementing safety systems within the manufacturing environment. Candidates must possess a BEng or BSc Eng degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Mechatronic Engineering along with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to asset care and lead engineering projects.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Control and Instrumentation Engineer, preferably in manufacturing.
• Valid driver’s license and own transport required.
• Knowledge of local standards (SANS, OSHA) is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the electrical and instrumentation team.
• Conduct fault finding to optimize plant efficiency.
• Create and maintain maintenance schedules.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Project management

Teamwork

Communication skills

Education

BEng / BSc Eng in Electrical, Electronic or Mechatronic Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen Bradley

Mitsubishi PLCs

Job description

SUMMARY : POSITION INFO :

A Tissue manufacturing company in Spartan Kempton Park is seeking a highly capable Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer.

This role will report to the Engineering and Maintenance Manager and will lead and manage the electrical and instrumentation team. The responsibilities include electrical and instrumentation maintenance, safety systems, and repairs within the manufacturing facilities, aligned with the company's objectives. The individual will contribute to asset care development plans and lead electrical and instrumentation projects.

THE POSITION

Reporting to the Engineering & Maintenance Manager, the incumbent must:

• Be passionate about the electrical and instrumentation engineering field. Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with flexibility to respond to changing business conditions.
• Have a proven track record of managing E&I teams, be goal-oriented, with KPIs such as OEE, Availability, MTBF, MTTR, Safety, and Cost. Be strategic and proactive in maintenance scheduling, shutdown planning, rapid breakdown response, and root cause analysis.
• Be capable of managing and coordinating projects, taking ownership of the plant within their scope.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS :

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Ensure smooth and efficient maintenance operations at the Jumbo Centre factory.
• Implement good maintenance standards to minimize downtime and costs.
• Create and maintain maintenance schedules for all equipment.
• Inspect plant sections regularly and develop action plans based on demands assessed.
• Perform fault finding to optimize plant efficiency and conduct root cause analysis to reduce breakdowns.
• Identify process improvements through modifications or replacements and report to management.
• Program, design, and modify PLC, DCS, and industrial network systems, establishing protocols for these systems.
• Attend Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) for E&I and projects.
• Test new machines and equipment for compliance with specifications.
• Forecast and manage maintenance budgets, assist in budget development and administration.
• Generate reports on generator diesel consumption, electricity usage, etc., as required.
• Oversee commissioning and operation of C&I systems/components.
• Review electrical engineering documentation and drawings, such as control schematics.
• Engage and manage E&I and control consulting engineers as needed.
• Prepare CAPEX applications for improvement projects.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment in line with 5S standards.
• Ensure compliance with all company standards and procedures.
• Inform management of potential downtime situations and take remedial actions.
• Negotiate with suppliers, ensuring specifications and standards are met.
• Support production and technical departments outside of normal hours, including call-outs and support calls.
• Perform additional tasks as directed by the Engineering Manager.
• Work efficiently in a team and knowledge-sharing environment, demonstrating good interpersonal skills and a practical approach to problem-solving.
• Commit to ongoing professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE :

• BEng / BSc Eng degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Mechatronic Engineering.
• Minimum 5+ years’ experience as a Control and Instrumentation Engineer, preferably with manufacturing or pulp and paper experience.
• Valid driver’s license and own transport.
• Experience with MCC, LV, and MV reticulation.
• Knowledge of local standards (SANS, OSHA) and familiarity with Siemens, Rockwell Automation / Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi PLCs and hardware.
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain DCS databases and software, including Siemens PLCs or similar systems.
• Understanding of Fieldbus and industrial communication protocols like Profibus DP/PA, Profinet, Ethernet/IP.
• Experience in procurement, installation, and construction of control and instrumentation systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

RELATION TO OTHERS :

• E&I Foreman
• Mechanical Foreman
• Production Team Leaders
• Production Manager

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

• Asset OEE > (target value needed)
• Failure rate trending down for all major equipment
• Maintenance program development in place
• Proactive maintenance practices effective
• Root cause failure analysis program established and effective