Lead Electrical Project Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Electrical Project Engineer in Cape Town to drive end-to-end automation projects for diverse industrial clients. You will lead a hands-on team, shape concepts, design, implement and commission systems, and ensure delivery on time and budget.

Ideal candidates bring 8+ years in electrical engineering within automation, PLC/HMI/SCADA expertise, strong leadership, and stakeholder communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 8+ years in electrical engineering; at least 3 in project lead within automation.
• Experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell), HMI, SCADA.
• Proficient in electrical CAD tools such as EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical engineering for automation projects from start to finish.
• Create electrical designs, schematics, and control panel layouts.
• Oversee procurement, installation, commissioning of systems.
• Run risk assessments and technical design reviews.
• Coordinate with clients, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Mentor engineers and technicians, uphold safety standards.
• Manage budgets, resources, schedules; produce documentation.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI design

SCADA systems

Networking protocols

Electrical CAD

Project management

Leadership

Client communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial automation solutions, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Electrical Project Engineer to spearhead critical projects in Cape Town . This role is essential for driving the successful delivery of complex automation systems for diverse industrial clients. You will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, from conceptualization and design to implementation and commissioning, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This is a hands‑on leadership position that requires strong technical acumen, exceptional project management skills, and the ability to mentor a team of talented engineers. If you are passionate about industrial technology and leading challenging projects, this opportunity in Cape Town is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage electrical engineering aspects of industrial automation projects from inception to completion.
• Develop detailed electrical design specifications, schematics, and control panel layouts.
• Oversee the procurement, installation, and commissioning of electrical and control systems.
• Conduct technical reviews and risk assessments for electrical designs and project plans.
• Liaise with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders to define project requirements and ensure stakeholder satisfaction.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical and automation issues during project execution and in the field.
• Mentor and develop a team of electrical engineers and technicians, fostering a high‑performance culture.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and industry standards.
• Manage project budgets, resources, and schedules effectively.
• Prepare project documentation, including progress reports, as‑built drawings, and user manuals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in electrical engineering, with at least 3 years in a project lead or supervisory role within industrial automation.
• Proven experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell), HMI design, and SCADA systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Excellent project management capabilities, including budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a technical team.
• Exceptional problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and client‑facing skills.
• Experience working in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, or food and beverage is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, performance‑based bonuses, medical aid, and pension fund contributions.
• You will be part of an innovative company driving technological advancements in the industrial sector.
• The role provides opportunities for professional growth, extensive training, and the chance to work on challenging and rewarding projects in Cape Town .
• This position is based on‑site, ensuring full immersion in project activities.