Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Life assurance

Relocation assistance available

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, is seeking a Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer to oversee the design, development, and integration of complex electrical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will lead a team of engineers, driving innovation, reliability, and safety across power distribution, wiring, lighting, and battery management.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, deep automotive electrical knowledge, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance

Qualifications

• 8+ years in automotive electrical systems engineering.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams and complexity in projects.
• Strong knowledge of automotive electrical architectures and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and validation of automotive electrical systems and components.
• Mentor a team of electrical engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Define electrical system architecture and integration with subsystems.
• Develop technical specifications and performance requirements for components.
• Oversee creation of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and 3D models.
• Perform root cause analysis for electrical failures and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and manufacturing teams.
• Ensure ISO 26262 compliance and regulatory requirements.
• Manage timelines, resources, and budgets for electrical activities.
• Stay updated on electrification and ADAS trends.

Skills

Electrical systems engineering

Team leadership

CAN/LIN/Ethernet

Electrical CAD

ISO 26262

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

E3.series

Capital

SPICE

PLM systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the automotive manufacturing sector based in Rustenburg , North West, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer. This critical role involves overseeing the design, development, and integration of complex electrical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will lead a team of talented engineers, driving innovation and ensuring the reliability, performance, and safety of our electrical architectures. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of automotive technology, working on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of what's possible. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of automotive electrical principles, a proven track record of leadership, and a passion for developing innovative solutions. You will be based at our state-of-the-art facility, contributing to the development of vehicles that define the industry standard for quality and performance. Your expertise will be crucial in navigating the evolving landscape of automotive electrification and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), ensuring our products remain at the forefront of technological advancement. We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where creativity and technical excellence thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and validation of automotive electrical systems and components, including power distribution, wiring harnesses, lighting, and battery management systems.
• Manage and mentor a team of electrical engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering professional development.
• Define electrical system architecture and ensure seamless integration with other vehicle subsystems.
• Develop detailed technical specifications and performance requirements for electrical components and systems.
• Oversee the creation and review of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and 3D models.
• Conduct root cause analysis for electrical system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineering, software development, and manufacturing.
• Ensure compliance with automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO 26262, SAE) and regulatory requirements.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for electrical engineering activities.
• Stay current with emerging trends in automotive electrical technology, such as electrification and autonomous driving.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in automotive electrical systems engineering.
• Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• In-depth knowledge of automotive electrical architectures, CAN/LIN/Ethernet communication protocols.
• Proficiency with electrical CAD software (e.g., E3.series, Capital), simulation tools (e.g., SPICE), and PLM systems.
• Strong understanding of functional safety (ISO 26262) principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience with vehicle testing and validation procedures.
• Knowledge of automotive battery technologies and electric vehicle powertrains is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and leadership role.
• Comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund, and life assurance.
• Opportunity to lead innovative projects in the automotive industry.
• Professional development and training programs.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Generous annual leave and company holidays.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and facilities in Rustenburg .
• Performance bonus and long-term incentive plans.