Lead Electrical Design Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training & career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Design Engineer in George, Western Cape, to drive industrial automation projects from concept through commissioning. You will lead a team of engineers and designers, design PLC/SCADA systems, and ensure solutions meet client needs and safety standards.

The role requires a Bachelor's in electrical engineering or mechatronics and at least eight years of automation experience, with PLC and HMI proficiency and CAD tooling expertise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or related.
• 8+ years in industrial automation and electrical design.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell) and HMI/SCADA.
• Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN).
• Knowledge of industrial protocols (Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design of industrial automation projects from concept to commissioning.
• Develop schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts and BOMs.
• Oversee component selection (sensors, actuators, drives, panels).
• Manage project lifecycles with budget, schedule and quality targets.
• Collaborate with clients to translate requirements into solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers and technicians.
• Conduct site visits for installation, commissioning and troubleshooting.
• Ensure designs meet IEC 60204-1 and safety standards.
• Stay abreast of new automation technologies and practices.
• Prepare reports and documentation for clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Client communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

HMI/SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent industrial solutions provider, is looking for an experienced and innovative Lead Electrical Design Engineer specializing in Industrial Automation to join their esteemed engineering department in George, Western Cape. This leadership position is central to the development and execution of state-of-the-art automation systems for a diverse range of industrial clients across South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of electrical control systems, PLCs, HMIs, and drive technologies. You will be responsible for leading a team of engineers and designers, ensuring the successful delivery of complex automation projects from concept through to commissioning. This role in George, Western Cape offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of industrial automation and drive efficiency for our clients. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of industrial automation systems, including PLC/SCADA systems, robotics, and motion control.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and bills of materials using CAD software.
• Oversee the selection and specification of electrical components, including sensors, actuators, drives, and control panels.
• Manage project lifecycles, ensuring adherence to budget, schedule, and quality standards for projects in George, Western Cape.
• Collaborate closely with clients to understand their requirements and translate them into effective automation solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of electrical engineers and technicians.
• Conduct site visits for installation supervision, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automation systems.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant safety standards (e.g., IEC 60204-1) and industry best practices.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in industrial automation and control systems.
• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and documentation for clients and internal stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and electrical design.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software such as AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients and team members.
• Willingness to travel occasionally within South Africa and internationally for project requirements.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) registration with ECSA is an advantage.

Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, a comprehensive medical aid plan, and a robust retirement fund. Our client values professional growth and provides ample opportunities for training and career advancement within the exciting field of industrial automation in George, Western Cape. Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to innovation and excellence in South Africa.