Lead Electrical Instrumentation Technician - Automation

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 950,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Instrumentation Technician to head a skilled team in a large-scale process facility in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will supervise technicians, oversee installation, calibration, maintenance, and repair of PLC/SCADA/DCS systems, and drive improvements in system reliability and efficiency.

The role requires a strong control systems background, proven troubleshooting ability, and leadership skills to guide a technical team in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years hands-on electrical/instrumentation maintenance experience in process plants.
• Bachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering (Light Current) or Instrumentation.
• Proven leadership experience and ability to manage a technical team.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor a team of electrical and instrumentation technicians.
• Install, calibrate, maintain, and repair PLC/SCADA/DCS systems.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to minimize downtime and optimize equipment performance.
• Troubleshoot faults, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Read and interpret electrical drawings, schematics, and P&ID diagrams.
• Manage spare parts inventory and prepare detailed maintenance reports.

Skills

Team leadership

Troubleshooting

PLC experience

SCADA experience

Reading schematics

Safety compliance

Analytical skills

Education

Electrical Engineering (Light Current) or Instrumentation

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

SCADA

DCS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the industrial automation sector, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Electrical Instrumentation Technician to join their operations based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This role is crucial for maintaining and enhancing the performance of complex automated systems within a large-scale processing facility. You will be responsible for leading a team of technicians, ensuring the seamless operation of all electrical and instrumentation equipment, and driving initiatives for system improvement and efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in industrial control systems, a proven ability to troubleshoot intricate problems, and excellent leadership qualities. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a vital industry and develop your career in a challenging and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor a team of electrical and instrumentation technicians, providing technical guidance and support.
• Install, calibrate, maintain, and repair a wide range of industrial instrumentation and control systems (PLC, SCADA, DCS).
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to minimize downtime and optimised equipment performance.
• Troubleshoot complex electrical and instrumentation faults, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, P&ID diagrams, and equipment manuals.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, company policies, and industry standards.
• Participate in the design, commissioning, and validation of new control systems and upgrades.
• Manage spare parts inventory for electrical and instrumentation equipment.
• Prepare detailed reports on maintenance activities, equipment performance, and incident investigations.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Degree in Electrical Engineering (Light Current) or Instrumentation Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in industrial electrical and instrumentation maintenance, preferably in a process plant environment.
• Proven experience with PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), SCADA systems, and VSDs.
• Strong understanding of process control loops, sensors, transmitters, and actuators.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and schematics.
• Experience leading a technical team and managing work schedules.
• Knowledge of safety protocols, including LOTO procedures and working at heights.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the Nelspruit area.

Benefits

• This role comes with a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with benefits such as a comprehensive medical aid plan, a provident fund, and annual performance bonuses.
• Our client is committed to employee growth, offering continuous training, opportunities for professional development, and exposure to advanced automation technologies.
• The hybrid work model allows for a balance between on-site operational needs and remote administrative tasks, fostering a productive work-life balance.
• Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to operational excellence and innovation in Mpumalanga.