Lead Electrical Control Systems Engineer

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Bonus potential

Generous leave

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is urgently seeking a Lead Electrical Control Systems Engineer to drive complex automation projects in Rustenburg, North West. You will lead a team of engineers, design PLC/HMI/SCADA/DCS solutions, and oversee end-to-end project execution from specification to commissioning.

The role demands 10+ years in electrical control systems, strong leadership, and deep knowledge of major PLC/DCS platforms. Mining/heavy industry exposure is a plus; ECSA Pr.Eng is desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in electrical control systems with lead/senior capacity.
• Deep knowledge of PLC/DCS platforms (Siemens, Rockwell, ABB) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Strong understanding of Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP.
• Proven experience leading engineering teams and managing project tech aspects.
• Excellent problem-solving and communications skills.
• Mining or heavy industrial experience is a plus.
• ECSA (Pr.Eng) registration is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and specification of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems for industrial automation projects.
• Develop and implement sophisticated control strategies to optimize industrial processes.
• Oversee the programming, configuration, and testing of automation hardware and software.
• Manage control system integration projects, ensuring seamless operation with other plant systems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of control systems engineers.
• Collaborate with clients to define project requirements and ensure stakeholder satisfaction.
• Plan and execute site commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities.
• Ensure all control system designs comply with safety regulations, industry standards, and client specifications.
• Contribute to the development of standard engineering practices and templates.

Skills

Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics

Leadership

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell Automation

ABB

SCADA/HMI software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial automation and process control, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Electrical Control Systems Engineer to spearhead their projects in Rustenburg, North West . This pivotal role will involve the design, development, implementation, and commissioning of complex automation and control systems for major industrial clients. You will be responsible for leading a team of engineers, ensuring the highest standards of technical execution and innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to work on large-scale projects, leveraging your expertise in automation technology and leading a talented team in the heart of South Africa's industrial hub. Your contributions will be key to enhancing operational efficiency and driving technological advancements for our esteemed clientele in Rustenburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and specification of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems for industrial automation projects.
• Develop and implement sophisticated control strategies to optimize industrial processes.
• Oversee the programming, configuration, and testing of automation hardware and software.
• Manage control system integration projects, ensuring seamless operation with other plant systems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of control systems engineers.
• Collaborate with clients to define project requirements and ensure stakeholder satisfaction.
• Plan and execute site commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities.
• Ensure all control system designs comply with safety regulations, industry standards, and client specifications.
• Contribute to the development of standard engineering practices and templates.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in electrical control systems engineering, with a significant portion in a lead or senior capacity.
• In-depth knowledge of major PLC/DCS platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation, ABB) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing project technical aspects.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to diagnose complex system issues.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Experience in the mining or heavy industrial sectors is a distinct advantage.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Pr.Eng) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous retirement plan.
• You will have unparalleled opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and certifications in the latest automation technologies.
• This role offers the chance to lead significant projects within Rustenburg and influence the direction of industrial automation in the North West region.
• We foster a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Additional benefits include performance bonuses, extensive leave, and access to company-sponsored wellness programs and facilities.