Lead Electrical Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Pension fund

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Engineer to head industrial automation efforts in Rustenburg, North West. You will lead a team to design, implement, and sustain complex electrical and control systems for large-scale operations on site.

The role demands a PE registration with ECSA, 8+ years in industry automation, and strong leadership to guide engineers and technicians through design reviews, commissioning, and safety compliance in a demanding mining environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA is required.
• 8+ years experience in electrical engineering with a focus on industrial automation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of electrical systems for industrial automation projects, including PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems.
• Manage and mentor a team of electrical engineers and technicians, providing technical direction and support.
• Develop electrical specifications, single-line diagrams, control panel layouts, and wiring schematics.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and testing of electrical and automation equipment.
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and client specifications.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

SCADA

HMI

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining and industrial sector, is seeking a highly skilled Lead Electrical Engineer to spearhead their industrial automation initiatives in Rustenburg, North West . This is a critical on-site role, demanding hands‑on expertise in designing, implementing, and maintaining complex electrical and control systems for large‑scale industrial operations. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team of engineers and technicians, ensuring the optimal performance, reliability, and safety of automated processes. This position offers the challenge of working with cutting‑edge technology in a demanding yet rewarding environment. You will be at the forefront of optimizing industrial efficiency and driving innovation in automation within the Rustenburg, North West region. Your leadership will be crucial in ensuring our operations remain competitive and technologically advanced.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design, development, and implementation of electrical systems for industrial automation projects, including PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems. Manage and mentor a team of electrical engineers and technicians, providing technical direction and support. Develop electrical specifications, single‑line diagrams, control panel layouts, and wiring schematics. Oversee the installation, commissioning, and testing of electrical and automation equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical and automation issues in a production environment. Ensure all designs and installations comply with relevant safety standards, regulations, and client specifications. Collaborate with process engineers, mechanical engineers, and operations teams to integrate electrical systems with overall plant functionality. Conduct regular risk assessments and implement appropriate mitigation strategies for electrical hazards. Manage electrical project budgets and timelines effectively.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field. Minimum of 8 years of experience in electrical engineering, with a significant focus on industrial automation and control systems. Demonstrated experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and SCADA systems. Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex electrical schematics and technical drawings. Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols and cybersecurity principles. Experience in the mining or heavy industrial sector is a strong asset. Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills. Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is required.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance incentives. Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, life insurance, and a generous pension fund. Opportunities for professional growth are abundant, with support for further training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences. Employees will have the chance to work on challenging and large‑scale projects within a stable and growing industry. The company culture fosters innovation and teamwork, providing a supportive environment for all its employees. Paid time off, including annual leave and sick leave, is provided. This position is based in Rustenburg, North West , offering the successful candidate the opportunity to establish themselves within a key industrial hub.