Lead Electrical Design Engineer - Automation

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Electrical Design Engineer specializing in automation. Initially remote with occasional travel to Pretoria, Gauteng, this role leads the design of electrical control systems for complex industrial plants and ensures seamless hardware/software integration with PLCs, SCADA, and HMIs.

You will develop schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and bills of materials; select components such as PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo drives, and safety devices;

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in electrical design for automation and control systems.
• Experience with PLC/SCADA/HMI integration and electrical schematics.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of automation and control systems for industrial applications.
• Create electrical schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and BOMs.
• Specify PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo drives, sensors, and safety devices.
• Collaborate with software/controls engineers to ensure hardware/software integration.
• Develop and maintain design documentation, specs, and test procedures.
• Oversee manufacturing and testing of control panels; ensure quality.
• Support commissioning teams and field engineers during startup.
• Mentor junior engineers; conduct design reviews and risk assessments.
• Stay current with automation advancements and best practices.

Skills

Electrical design

Automation systems

Team leadership

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics degree

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in industrial automation and control systems, is looking for a highly experienced Lead Electrical Design Engineer with a specialization in automation to join their innovative team, initially based remotely but with potential for occasional travel to Pretoria, Gauteng . This role is critical for developing state-of-the-art electrical control systems for complex manufacturing and processing plants. You will be responsible for leading design efforts, ensuring the seamless integration of electrical components with PLCs, SCADA, and HMI systems, and driving technical excellence. This is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge automation projects from the comfort of your own location, contributing significantly to industrial advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of complex automation and control systems for industrial applications.
• Design electrical schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and bills of materials for control panels and systems.
• Specify and select electrical components, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo drives, sensors, and safety devices.
• Collaborate closely with software/controls engineers to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software components.
• Develop and maintain electrical design documentation, including design narratives, technical specifications, and test procedures.
• Oversee the manufacturing and testing of electrical control panels, ensuring quality and adherence to design standards.
• Provide technical support to commissioning teams and field engineers during system installation and startup.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in industrial automation technology and electrical design principles.
• Mentor and guide junior electrical engineers and designers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Conduct design reviews and risk assessments for electrical and automation systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in electrical design engineering, with a strong focus on industrial automation and control systems.
• Proven experience designing electrical systems for PLC, SCADA, and HMI integration.
• Proficiency with CAD software for electrical design (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
• Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Knowledge of relevant electrical codes and safety standards (e.g., IEC, NFPA 79).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with experience in remote collaboration.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines effectively.
• Experience in leading design teams is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, pension fund, and performance bonuses. This role provides exceptional flexibility with remote work arrangements, allowing for a better work-life balance. Opportunities for professional development, specialized training, and attending international industry conferences are readily available. You will be part of an innovative and forward-thinking company that is at the forefront of industrial automation technology. Occasional travel to our Pretoria facility may be required.