Principal Electrical Design Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Work-life balance initiative

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Principal Electrical Design Engineer for its Durban team. Lead the design of advanced electrical control systems, PLC programming, HMIs, and automation infrastructure for heavy industrial applications.

You will mentor engineers, set technical direction, and collaborate across disciplines to deliver robust solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity on site.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in industrial electrical design and automation engineering.
• Proven PLC programming and HMI development expertise.
• Strong knowledge of Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus.
• Experience with motor control, VFDs, and servo systems.
• Proficient in EPLAN and AutoCAD Electrical.
• Experience leading projects and mentoring staff.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of electrical control systems for industrial automation projects.
• Develop detailed schematics, wiring diagrams, panels, and BOMs.
• Select components ensuring safety, cost, and performance targets.
• Oversee assembly, testing, and commissioning of panels and systems.
• Provide technical support to project teams and field staff.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive technology updates.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and project teams to ensure integration.
• Adhere to IEC 61508, ISO 13849 and local safety regulations.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Industrial protocols

Motor control

VFDs

Servo systems

Electrical CAD software

Project leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in industrial automation solutions, is seeking an experienced and visionary Principal Electrical Design Engineer to join their esteemed team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role requires an individual with extensive expertise in designing complex electrical control systems, motor drives, and automation infrastructure for heavy industrial applications. You will be responsible for setting technical direction, mentoring a team of engineers, and driving innovation in electrical design practices. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial networking protocols, along with a strong aptitude for problem-solving and strategic thinking. This is a critical position that demands leadership, technical excellence, and a commitment to delivering robust and reliable solutions for our diverse client base. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of industrial automation by developing state-of-the-art electrical systems that enhance efficiency, safety, and productivity in manufacturing environments. We are looking for a proactive individual who can thrive in a fast-paced, project-driven setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of electrical control systems for industrial automation projects, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and robotics integration.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and Bill of Materials (BOMs) using industry-standard CAD software.
• Specify and select electrical components, ensuring compliance with performance, safety, and cost requirements.
• Oversee the assembly, testing, and commissioning of electrical control panels and systems, both in-house and on-site.
• Provide expert technical support to project teams, manufacturing, and field service personnel.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical and control system issues, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior electrical engineers, fostering their technical growth and professional development.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology, including Industry 4.0 concepts, IoT integration, and cybersecurity for industrial systems.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers to ensure seamless integration and successful project delivery.
• Ensure all designs adhere to relevant safety standards (e.g., IEC 61508, ISO 13849) and local regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in industrial electrical design and automation engineering.
• Proven expertise in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) and HMI development.
• Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus).
• Experience with motor control, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and servo systems.
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering projects and mentoring technical staff.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a strong attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise with clients and stakeholders.
• A proactive and results-oriented mindset, with a commitment to safety and quality.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including substantial performance bonuses and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Employees benefit from significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced training courses, certifications, and attendance at international conferences.
• You will be part of a collaborative and innovative work environment that encourages knowledge sharing and career progression.
• The company invests in its people, providing access to cutting-edge technologies and challenging projects that push the boundaries of industrial automation.
• We also offer generous relocation assistance if applicable, and a supportive work-life balance initiative.
• Join a team that is at the forefront of technological advancement in South Africa's industrial sector.
• This role provides a unique platform for technical leadership and strategic impact.