Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company car program

Medical aid and pension

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer in Pretoria to spearhead design and development of electrical architectures for vehicle platforms. You will lead a team covering power distribution, BMS, charging, and ADAS electronics.

The role requires deep technical expertise, strong leadership, and a strategic mindset to collaborate with mechanical, software, and system engineers. You will ensure innovation, reliability, safety compliance, and drive project success across

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in automotive electrical systems design and development, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Deep knowledge of power electronics, BMS, charging systems, and high-voltage architectures.
• Experience with automotive communication networks (CAN, LIN, FlexRay, Ethernet).
• Proficiency with schematic capture and PCB design tools is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of ISO 26262 functional safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of automotive electrical systems (wiring harnesses, ECUs, sensors, actuators).
• Define electrical system architecture, requirements, and specifications for new vehicle programs.
• Manage a team of electrical engineers; provide technical guidance and mentorship.
• Oversee simulation, analysis, and validation of electrical systems for performance and safety.
• Collaborate with suppliers to select and integrate components and subsystems.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Strategic mindset

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Electrical Engineering degree

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

SPICE

Saber

Job description

Our client, a prominent automotive manufacturer in Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA , is seeking an accomplished Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer to spearhead the design and development of advanced electrical architectures for their vehicle platforms. This leadership role involves overseeing a team of engineers responsible for everything from power distribution and battery management systems to infotainment integration and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) electronics. You will play a critical part in defining the technological direction of our vehicles, ensuring innovation, reliability, and compliance with industry standards. This is a prime opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of automotive electrical systems in a dynamic setting. The ideal candidate possesses deep technical expertise in automotive electrical engineering, strong leadership capabilities, and a strategic mindset. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, software, and system engineers, to deliver cutting-edge solutions. We are looking for a results-oriented professional dedicated to achieving technical excellence and driving project success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of automotive electrical systems, including wiring harnesses, ECUs, sensors, and actuators.
• Define electrical system architecture, requirements, and specifications for new vehicle programs.
• Manage a team of electrical engineers, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Oversee the simulation, analysis, and validation of electrical systems to ensure performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with suppliers to select and integrate electrical components and subsystems.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards (e.g., ISO 26262 for functional safety) and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and implement testing procedures and validation plans for electrical systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical issues during vehicle development and production.
• Stay current with emerging electrical and electronic technologies relevant to the automotive industry.
• Prepare and present technical reports and project updates to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in automotive electrical systems design and development, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of automotive power electronics, battery management systems (BMS), charging systems, and high-voltage architectures.
• Experience with automotive communication networks (e.g., CAN, LIN, FlexRay, Ethernet).
• Proficiency in schematic capture and PCB design tools is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of functional safety (ISO 26262) principles and application.
• Experience with simulation tools (e.g., SPICE, Saber, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Excellent leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment in Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA .
• A proactive approach to identifying and mitigating technical risks.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with performance incentives.
• Opportunity to lead innovation in automotive electrical systems.
• Key role within a respected automotive manufacturer in Pretoria .
• Comprehensive benefits including medical aid, pension, and life insurance.
• Access to advanced training and professional development programs.
• Collaborative work environment with opportunities for growth.
• Company car program and vehicle discounts.