Electrician

Pepkor Lifestyle; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Pepkor Lifestyle in Johannesburg is seeking an Electrical & Automation Technician to install, wire, program support, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based control systems across production lines.

You will read schematics, modify panels, assist with PLC programming, and perform preventive maintenance while ensuring safety compliance and minimal downtime. This role requires hands-on electrical skills and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Technical diploma, trade certification, or apprenticeship in Electrical, Automation, or Industrial Technology (preferred).
• Valid electrician license or certification (as required by local regulations).

Responsibilities

• Install, wire, and terminate PLC panels, control cabinets, MCCs, sensors, actuators, VFDs, HMIs, and related field devices.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and P&IDs.
• Assist with PLC programming, testing, and commissioning under guidance of engineers or senior technicians.
• Diagnose and repair electrical and control system faults in PLC-based systems.
• Update electrical drawings, PLC I/O lists, and maintenance records.
• Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) and electrical safety procedures.

Skills

PLC hardware

Industrial electrical

Sensors & actuators

VFDs & servo drives

Test equipment

Industrial networking

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Electrical trade certification

Apprenticeship in Automation

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Schneider PLC

Omron PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

Job description

Responsible for installing, wiring, programming support, troubleshooting, and maintaining electrical control systems that use Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). This role combines strong electrical skills with automation and industrial control knowledge to ensure machinery and production systems operate safely, efficiently, and with minimal downtime.

Key Responsibilities

Electrical Installation & Wiring

• Install, wire, and terminate PLC panels, control cabinets, MCCs, sensors, actuators, VFDs, HMIs, and related field devices
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and P&IDs
• Ensure proper grounding, shielding, and cable management in control systems
• Perform panel modifications and upgrades as required

PLC & Automation Support

• Assist with PLC programming, testing, and commissioning under guidance of engineers or senior technicians
• Download, upload, and backup PLC programs
• Support HMI configuration and basic screen edits

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Diagnose and repair electrical and control system faults in PLC-based systems
• Troubleshoot issues involving sensors, relays, contactors, drives, motors, and safety circuits
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on automation equipment
• Minimize equipment downtime through rapid fault analysis and repair
• Conduct continuity, insulation resistance, and functional testing
• Support system commissioning, startup, and shutdown activities
• Verify compliance with electrical codes, safety standards, and company procedures

Safety & Compliance

• Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) and electrical safety procedures
• Ensure compliance with local electrical codes, OSHA, NEC, IEC, or relevant standards
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas
• Report hazards, incidents, and equipment issues promptly

Documentation & Communication

• Update electrical drawings, PLC I/O lists, and maintenance records
• Document faults, repairs, and system changes
• Communicate effectively with engineers, supervisors, operators, and maintenance teams

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of industrial electrical systems (AC/DC power, motors, control circuits)
• Hands-on experience with PLC hardware (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider, Omron, Mitsubishi)
• Understanding of sensors, actuators, VFDs, servo drives, and safety systems
• Ability to use test equipment (multimeter, megger, oscilloscope where applicable)
• Basic knowledge of industrial networking and communication protocols

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Good communication and documentation skills
• Willingness to learn new automation technologies

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Technical diploma, trade certification, or apprenticeship in Electrical, Automation, or Industrial Technology (preferred)
• Valid electrician license or certification (as required by local regulations)

Experience Requirements

• 2–5 years of experience in industrial electrical or automation environments (typical)
• Experience working with PLC-controlled machinery and production equipment
• Exposure to manufacturing, utilities, oil & gas, water treatment, or process industries (preferred)