Junior Electrical Engineer - Control Systems

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Annual leave

Paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a driven Junior Electrical Engineer in Paarl, Western Cape, to support design, testing and deployment of control systems for industrial automation projects. You will learn under senior engineers, contribute to panel design, PLC/HMI programming and site commissioning, while building hands-on expertise in electrical engineering fundamentals.

The role is entry-level with mentorship, training opportunities, and exposure to CAD tools like EPLAN/AutoCAD Electrical, plus travel

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 0-3 years of experience in electrical engineering, with a focus on control systems or automation.
• Familiarity with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI software is desirable.
• Proficiency in using electrical CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical) is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of electrical control panels and schematics using CAD software.
• Program and configure PLCs and HMIs under supervision.
• Participate in testing and commissioning of electrical control systems, both in the workshop and at client sites.
• Conduct site visits for installation support, troubleshooting, and system verification.
• Prepare technical documentation, including wiring diagrams, manuals, and test reports.
• Collaborate with senior engineers and project managers to ensure project timelines and deliverables are met.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and control system issues encountered during project execution.
• Research and recommend appropriate electrical components and equipment for projects.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI software

Electrical CAD

Teamwork

Communication

Education

EE degree

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a dynamic engineering solutions provider with a strong presence in the industrial automation sector. They are seeking an enthusiastic and ambitious Junior Electrical Engineer to join their growing team in Paarl, Western Cape . This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands‑on experience in the design, implementation, and testing of electrical control systems for various industrial applications. You will work under the guidance of experienced engineers, contributing to exciting projects and developing a solid foundation in electrical engineering principles and practices within a supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of electrical control panels and schematics using CAD software.
• Program and configure Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) under supervision.
• Participate in the testing and commissioning of electrical control systems, both in the workshop and at client sites.
• Conduct site visits for installation support, troubleshooting, and system verification.
• Prepare technical documentation, including wiring diagrams, manuals, and test reports.
• Collaborate with senior engineers and project managers to ensure project timelines and deliverables are met.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and control system issues encountered during project execution.
• Research and recommend appropriate electrical components and equipment for projects.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and company standards throughout project lifecycles.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 0-3 years of experience in electrical engineering, with a focus on control systems or automation.
• Familiarity with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI software is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in using electrical CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical) is an advantage.
• Strong understanding of electrical principles, components, and circuit design.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with a proactive attitude.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently when required.
• Willingness to travel to client sites as needed.
• Enthusiasm for learning and developing skills in industrial automation.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive entry-level salary, along with valuable on-the-job training and mentorship programs designed to accelerate your career growth. Benefits include medical aid contributions, retirement fund participation, and paid annual leave. This role provides direct exposure to a wide range of industrial automation technologies and projects, offering a strong foundation for future specialization. Employees work in a collaborative team environment in Paarl, Western Cape , with opportunities for advancement within the company. The company is committed to employee development and provides support for professional courses and certifications.