Industrial Electrician - Power Systems

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

On-site role

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, is seeking an experienced Industrial Electrician to join a large-scale petrochemical operation. The role focuses on installation, maintenance, and repair of high‑voltage electrical networks, with emphasis on safe operation in hazardous environments.

The successful candidate will read schematics, work with VFDs/PLC systems, and perform preventative maintenance while ensuring compliance with safety codes and company procedures.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience as an industrial electrician in manufacturing or heavy industry.
• Certified Industrial Electrician with valid trade certificate.
• Strong knowledge of high-voltage safety protocols.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and diagrams.
• Experience with PLCs and motor control circuits a plus.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain and repair electrical equipment including switchgear and control panels.
• Troubleshoot malfunctions to minimize plant downtime.
• Interpret schematics and manuals to guide work.
• Perform preventative maintenance per schedules.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations in hazardous locations.
• Assist in commissioning and document maintenance records.
• Respond to emergency electrical issues as needed.

Skills

High-Voltage systems

PLC systems

VFDs

Schematic diagrams

Education

Trade certificate / Industrial Electrician

Tools

Multimeters

Oscilloscopes

Insulation testers

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry located in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , is actively seeking a skilled and certified Industrial Electrician to join their operational team. This critical role focuses on the installation, maintenance, and repair of complex electrical systems and power distribution networks within a large-scale industrial plant. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience with high-voltage equipment, control systems, and safety protocols relevant to hazardous environments. This position requires a hands-on approach and a commitment to ensuring the reliable and safe operation of all electrical infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, inspect, test, and maintain electrical equipment, including motors, transformers, switchgear, control panels, and lighting systems.
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical malfunctions and breakdowns, minimizing plant downtime.
• Interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals to guide work activities.
• Perform preventative maintenance on all electrical systems according to established schedules and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, electrical codes, and company policies, particularly in hazardous locations.
• Work with high-voltage and low-voltage systems, including power distribution and control circuits.
• Operate and maintain testing equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and insulation testers.
• Assist in the commissioning of new electrical installations and equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, inspections, and repairs.
• Respond to emergency electrical issues as required, working efficiently under pressure.

Requirements

• A valid trade certificate as an Industrial Electrician.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience working as an industrial electrician in a manufacturing or heavy industry environment.
• Proven experience with high-voltage electrical systems (e.g., above 1000V) and associated safety procedures.
• Strong knowledge of electrical codes and standards, including SANS and local regulations.
• Proficiency in reading and understanding electrical schematics and diagrams.
• Experience with motor control circuits, VFDs, and PLC systems is highly desirable.
• Ability to use electrical testing equipment effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with other trades and departments.
• Must be physically fit and able to work at heights and in confined spaces as needed.
• Willingness to work shifts and be part of an on-call rotation for emergencies.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive annual salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous provident fund contribution. This role provides the opportunity to work within a large, stable industrial facility in Port Elizabeth , gaining exposure to diverse and complex electrical systems. Continuous training on new technologies and safety procedures will be provided. Our client values a safe and productive work environment and offers opportunities for career advancement within their organization. This role is based in Port Elizabeth and is not remote, requiring on-site presence.