Lead Electrical Design Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Generous leave

Professional certifications

Cutting-edge technology

Growth opportunities

Vehicle allowance

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is sourcing a Lead Electrical Design Engineer for a major industrial client in Midrand, Gauteng. The role oversees the electrical design of complex automation systems, ensuring performance, safety, and regulatory compliance across project conception to lifecycle support.

The candidate will lead a team of engineers, drive innovative solutions, and work with state-of-the-art tools to deliver high-impact automation projects in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of experience in electrical design engineering with leadership experience.
• Experience with industrial automation standards and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of complex industrial automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, robotics, VFDs).
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts using CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
• Specify electrical components and control panels ensuring compliance with international standards.
• Mentor and manage a team of electrical design engineers and technicians.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure designs meet safety regulations (IEC 60204-1, ISO 13849).
• Oversee testing, commissioning, and validation of electrical control systems.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and project management teams for integration.
• Provide expert technical support during manufacturing and operations.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes and standards.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robotics integration

Leadership

Project management

Industrial communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics

Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is actively recruiting a Lead Electrical Design Engineer for a prominent industrial client based in Midrand, Gauteng. This senior position is critical for driving innovation in industrial automation solutions. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the electrical design of complex automation systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. You will play a key role in project conception, detailed design, and lifecycle support. This role offers the chance to work on challenging projects, utilize advanced design tools, and lead a team of talented engineers. Our client is committed to adopting state-of-the-art technologies and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence. The position requires a visionary leader with exceptional technical acumen and a proven track record in industrial electrical engineering. This is an opportunity to shape the future of automated manufacturing processes in Midrand and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and development of complex industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and VFDs.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
• Specify electrical components, control panels, and associated hardware, ensuring compliance with international standards.
• Manage and mentor a team of electrical design engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
• Perform risk assessments and ensure designs adhere to all relevant safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., IEC 60204-1, ISO 13849).
• Oversee the testing, commissioning, and validation of electrical control systems.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.
• Provide expert technical support during the manufacturing and operational phases of projects.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in electrical design engineering, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role within industrial automation.
• Extensive knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI development, and robotics integration.
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software is essential.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Proven experience with functional safety standards and applications.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Attractive remuneration package reflective of your expertise.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and innovative projects.
• A stimulating work environment with opportunities for growth.
• Company-provided vehicle or travel allowance.