Lead Electrical Systems Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement planning

Professional development budget

Company vehicle and travel allowances

Career progression opportunities

Excellent work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Electrical Systems Engineer in Cape Town to spearhead the design, development, and implementation of advanced electrical systems for state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. You will drive electrical design, control system integration, and on-site commissioning, steering projects from concept through execution.

The role requires 10+ years in electrical systems engineering within industrial automation, strong PLC/SCADA/HMI capabilities, and leadership of engineering

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• 0+ years of progressive experience in electrical systems engineering with a focus on industrial automation.
• Strong PLC programming, SCADA and HMI experience.
• Deep knowledge of motor control, VFDs and servo systems.
• Experience with Profibus or Ethernet/IP.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams and projects.
• PR.Eng registration is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design and engineering for industrial automation projects from concept to completion.
• Develop and review electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams for control systems.
• Specify and select industrial electrical components including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and switchgear.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for electrical system development.
• Oversee installation, testing, and commissioning on-site.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and project teams.
• Provide expert support and troubleshooting for existing systems.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation for electrical hazards.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA development

HMI development

Motor control

VFDs

Servo systems

Industrial networking

Leadership

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) preferred

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

SolidWorks Electrical

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in industrial automation and manufacturing technology, is looking for an exceptional Lead Electrical Systems Engineer to spearhead their operations in Cape Town, Western Cape . This critical role involves leading the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated electrical systems for state-of-the- art manufacturing facilities. You will be responsible for ensuring the seamless integration of electrical components and control systems that drive efficiency and productivity in complex industrial environments. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of industrial power distribution, motor control, and automation technologies. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of industrial processes and contribute to major projects within South Africa's vibrant manufacturing sector. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and operational excellence, making this an ideal position for a forward-thinking engineer looking to make a significant impact. The successful applicant will manage a team of engineers and technicians, providing mentorship and technical direction. This role demands a strategic mindset and a hands-on approach to problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for industrial automation projects, from concept to completion.
• Develop and review electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams for control systems.
• Specify and select industrial electrical components, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and switchgear.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for electrical system development.
• Oversee the installation, testing, and commissioning of electrical and automation systems on-site.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., OSHA, IEC).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers.
• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for existing electrical systems.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for electrical hazards.
• Mentor and guide junior electrical engineers and technicians, fostering a high-performance team culture.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in electrical systems engineering, with a significant focus on industrial automation.
• Extensive knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), SCADA systems, and HMI development.
• Strong understanding of motor control theory, variable frequency drives, and servo systems.
• Experience with industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing engineering teams and projects.
• Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, SolidWorks Electrical).
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to travel as required for project implementation and support.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Attractive remuneration package, including performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement planning benefits.
• Generous professional development budget for courses and certifications.
• Opportunity to work on technologically advanced and impactful projects.
• A supportive and collaborative company culture that values innovation.
• Excellent work-life balance initiatives.
• Company vehicle and travel allowances.
• Clear pathways for career progression to senior leadership roles.