Remote Principal Electrical Engineer - Automation

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement plan

Generous PTO

Remote work autonomy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer specialized in automation to architect and guide next-gen automation solutions from a remote global team.

The role requires 12+ years in electrical engineering with a focus on industrial automation, including PLC/SCADA, functional safety, and robotics integration. Strong leadership and cross-disciplinary collaboration are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with a strong specialization in industrial automation and control systems.
• Deep understanding of PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus), and robotic systems.
• Proven experience with functional safety standards (IEC 61508/61511) and SIL assessments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and development of complex industrial automation systems, including PLC, SCADA, HMI, and robotics integration.
• Define system requirements, specifications, and interface protocols for distributed control systems.
• Evaluate and select appropriate hardware components, sensors, actuators, and communication technologies.
• Provide technical leadership and strategic direction to electrical and automation engineering teams.
• Oversee the development of functional safety systems (SIL-rated) in compliance with international standards.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers and technical leads within the automation discipline.

Skills

PLC Programming

SCADA Systems

Industrial Networking

Robotics Systems

System Architecture

Leadership

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PLC Programming

SCADA Systems

Industrial Networking

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in industrial automation and control systems, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Electrical Engineer specializing in automation to join their world-class, fully remote engineering team. This senior role requires a visionary individual to architect and guide the development of next-generation automation solutions for diverse industries. You will be responsible for defining system architectures, setting technical roadmaps, and mentoring a team of talented electrical and automation engineers. This is an exceptional opportunity for an expert to shape the future of industrial processes from anywhere, contributing to significant advancements in efficiency, safety, and productivity worldwide. We value innovation and empower our remote workforce to drive transformative change.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and development of complex industrial automation systems, including PLC, SCADA, HMI, and robotics integration.
• Define system requirements, specifications, and interface protocols for distributed control systems.
• Evaluate and select appropriate hardware components, sensors, actuators, and communication technologies.
• Provide technical leadership and strategic direction to electrical and automation engineering teams.
• Oversee the development of functional safety systems (SIL-rated) in compliance with international standards.
• Conduct system integration planning, validation, and commissioning support for global projects.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks, ensuring the robustness, scalability, and reliability of automation solutions.
• Collaborate with software development, mechanical design, and process engineering teams to ensure holistic system solutions.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers and technical leads within the automation discipline.
• Stay at the forefront of automation technologies, proposing innovative solutions and best practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with a strong specialization in industrial automation and control systems.
• Extensive experience designing and implementing complex automation solutions for manufacturing, process industries, or similar.
• Deep understanding of PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus), and robotic systems.
• Proven experience with functional safety standards (IEC 61508/61511) and SIL assessments.
• Expertise in system architecture design, requirement definition, and technology selection.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing technical direction across teams.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead initiatives in a remote, global environment.
• Professional certifications (e.g., PE, PMP) are a strong asset.

Benefits

This remote Principal Electrical Engineer position offers a highly competitive salary, significant bonus potential, and an excellent benefits package including comprehensive health coverage, retirement planning, and generous paid time off. Our client fosters a culture of continuous learning and provides access to cutting-edge tools and virtual professional development opportunities. You will have the autonomy and support to excel in a challenging and rewarding role, shaping the future of industrial automation from your home office.