Lead Electrical Automation Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Remote work flexibility

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Electrical Automation Engineer for a fully remote role. You will spearhead design, development, and deployment of advanced automation systems, guiding project teams and client engagements from conception to implementation. Responsibilities include PLC/SCADA integration, HMI design, and robotics control, with leadership of remote teams.

Requires a Bachelor's in Electrical/Mechatronics, 8+ years in electrical automation, and Pr.Eng. is desirable.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• A minimum of 8 years in electrical and automation engineering with at least 3 years in a lead role.
• Extensive experience with major PLC platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Proficiency in electrical design software (EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP).
• Experience leading engineering projects remotely and managing teams.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of automation systems, including PLC/SCADA integration, HMI design, and robotics control.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using CAD software.
• Specify and select automation components (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo drives, sensors, safety devices).
• Oversee system integration ensuring interoperability between modules and plant systems.
• Provide remote technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical and automation engineers.
• Collaborate with clients and stakeholders via virtual meetings to define scope and deliverables.
• Develop and execute testing and commissioning plans for automation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues remotely for field technicians.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and industry best practices.
• Ensure designs adhere to IEC, UL, CE and other safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Remote leadership

Communication

Project management

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

SCADA/HMI software

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Modbus TCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected international firm specializing in advanced manufacturing solutions, is actively seeking a Lead Electrical Automation Engineer for a fully remote position. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to spearhead automation projects from conception through to implementation, remotely guiding project teams and client engagements. You will be responsible for the design, development, and deployment of sophisticated electrical control systems that drive operational efficiency and innovation for our global clientele. The role demands strong technical leadership, excellent communication skills tailored for a virtual environment, and a deep understanding of industrial automation technologies. If you thrive on complex challenges and excel in a remote leadership capacity, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of automation systems, including PLC/SCADA integration, HMI design, and robotics control.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams utilizing industry-leading CAD software.
• Specify and select automation components such as PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo drives, sensors, and safety devices from various manufacturers.
• Oversee the system integration process, ensuring seamless communication and interoperability between different automation modules and plant systems.
• Provide remote technical guidance and mentorship to a team of electrical and automation engineers.
• Collaborate closely with clients and internal stakeholders through virtual meetings to define project scope, requirements, and deliverables.
• Develop and execute comprehensive testing and commissioning plans for automation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical and automation issues remotely, providing expert support to field technicians.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and industry best practices, recommending improvements to our offerings.
• Ensure all designs adhere to international electrical and safety standards (e.g., IEC, UL, CE).

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in electrical and automation engineering, with at least 3 years in a lead or senior capacity.
• Extensive experience with major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Mitsubishi) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Proficiency in electrical design software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP).
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing engineering projects remotely.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, effective in virtual team settings.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver high-quality results in a remote environment.
• Experience with robotics integration is a strong plus.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers significant flexibility and the ability to work from your preferred location.

Our client provides a highly competitive salary, excellent health insurance coverage, and a generous retirement savings plan.

You will be part of an innovative and forward-thinking company with ample opportunities for professional development, including access to advanced training programs and industry conferences.

Enjoy a dynamic work environment where your contributions are valued, and career growth is encouraged.

The ability to influence the direction of cutting‑edge automation solutions makes this a truly rewarding role.