Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Company car program

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer to guide design, development, integration and validation of complex electrical systems across vehicle platforms, including battery management, charging, and ADAS. This on-site role demands strong technical leadership and hands-on mentoring of engineers.

The successful candidate will shape architectures, drive safety compliance (ISO 26262), coordinate with mechanical and software teams, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years in automotive electrical systems engineering.
• At least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Experience with ISO 26262 and safety-critical systems.
• Proficient CAD for schematic design and harness routing.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive electrical systems and battery management.
• Oversee integration of electrical components into vehicle platforms.
• Develop and manage electrical system specifications and architecture designs.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and systems engineers.
• Define and execute validation plans for electrical systems; ensure standards.
• Mentor a team of electrical engineers and drive professional growth.
• Troubleshoot complex electrical issues and provide solutions.
• Stay updated on electrification and connectivity trends.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and resources for electrical development.

Skills

Leadership

Electrical Architecture

Power Electronics

System Integration

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

E3.series

Capital

CAN/LIN/Ethernet

Matlab Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in automotive innovation and manufacturing, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer to join their esteemed team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This pivotal on-site role requires an individual with exceptional technical leadership capabilities and a profound understanding of automotive electrical architectures. You will be responsible for guiding the design, development, integration, and validation of complex electrical systems for our client's diverse vehicle portfolio. This includes power distribution, charging systems, sensor networks, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The ideal candidate possesses a proven track record in managing engineering projects, mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams. A deep knowledge of electrical engineering principles, automotive standards, and emerging electrical technologies is essential. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability, performance, and safety of our client's vehicles, driving innovation and maintaining their competitive edge in the global automotive market. We offer a challenging yet rewarding work environment, equipped with state-of-the‑art facilities and a commitment to fostering professional growth and development for our engineering talent.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive electrical systems, including wiring harnesses, power distribution modules, charging systems, and battery management systems.
• Oversee the integration of electrical components and subsystems into vehicle platforms, ensuring compatibility and functionality.
• Develop and manage electrical system specifications, schematics, and architecture designs.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and systems engineers to ensure cohesive product development.
• Define and execute validation and testing plans for electrical systems, ensuring compliance with automotive standards (e.g., ISO 26262, LV 124).
• Mentor and guide a team of electrical engineers, fostering technical excellence and professional development.
• Troubleshoot complex electrical issues and develop effective solutions.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and trends in automotive electrical systems, including electrification and connectivity.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively for electrical system development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in automotive electrical systems engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of automotive electrical architectures, power electronics, and control systems.
• Proficiency in using CAD tools for schematic design and harness routing (e.g., E3.series, Capital).
• Strong understanding of automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet) and diagnostic procedures.
• Experience with functional safety standards (ISO 26262) and their application to electrical systems.
• Proven ability to lead engineering teams and manage complex projects from concept to production.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with electric vehicle (EV) or hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) electrical systems is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Executive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous retirement savings contribution.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership.
• Access to advanced engineering tools and training programs.
• Relocation assistance may be available.
• A dynamic and technologically advanced work environment.
• Company car program.