Lead Electrical Engineer - Industrial Automation

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

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Retirement annuity

Performance bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Electrical Engineer in Polokwane to drive the design and implementation of advanced industrial automation systems. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring high-quality, reliable control solutions across diverse applications.

The role requires a strong background in PLCs, HMIs, CAD, and project management, with exposure to IEC/SANS standards. Join a company that values technical leadership and professional growth in Limpopo.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design and engineering of industrial automation systems including control panels and power distribution
• Develop detailed electrical schematics and BOMs using CAD software
• Specify and select PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and safety relays
• Oversee integration of electrical with mechanical and software components
• Manage project timelines, budgets and resources for electrical tasks
• Ensure designs comply with IEC, SANS and safety standards
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers
• Collaborate with clients to capture requirements and deliver solutions
• Support commissioning, testing and troubleshooting at client sites
• Stay updated with advancements in industrial automation technologies

Skills

Electrical design

Team leadership

PLC programming

HMI development

Electrical CAD

Industrial networking

Motor control

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, is seeking an experienced Lead Electrical Engineer to join their growing team in Polokwane . This role is critical in driving the design, development, and implementation of complex electrical control systems for a diverse range of industrial applications. You will lead a team of skilled electrical engineers and technicians, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, reliable, and efficient automation solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in industrial electrical systems, PLCs, HMI design, and project management. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to take on significant technical leadership, mentor a talented team, and contribute to the modernization of industries in the Limpopo province. Join a company that values innovation, technical expertise, and professional growth in Polokwane .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering of industrial automation systems, including control panels, motor control centers, and power distribution.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and Bills of Materials (BOM) using industry-standard CAD software.
• Specify and select electrical components, including PLCs, HMIs, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and safety relays.
• Oversee the integration of electrical systems with mechanical and software components to ensure seamless operation.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for electrical engineering tasks.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., IEC, SANS) and safety regulations.
• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and training to junior electrical engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their requirements and provide technical solutions.
• Support commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities at client sites.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in industrial automation technologies and electrical engineering practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial electrical engineering and automation.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex automation projects.
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
• In-depth knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI development, and industrial networking.
• Strong understanding of motor control, power electronics, and safety standards for industrial machinery.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with clients and team members.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is a strong advantage.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, with remuneration up to R per annum , reflecting the seniority and expertise required. Comprehensive benefits include private medical aid, a substantial retirement annuity, and performance-based bonuses. We provide excellent opportunities for professional development, including advanced training courses, certifications, and potential for international exposure. This position, located in Polokwane , offers a chance to work on challenging projects and contribute to industrial advancement. We foster a supportive and innovative work environment. Standard annual leave and other statutory benefits are included.