Senior Automation Electrical Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and incentives

Medical aid and retirement fund

Continuous learning and development

Exposure to diverse industrial sectors

Supportive team environment

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automation Electrical Engineer for our Port Elizabeth client. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and supporting sophisticated automated systems, ensuring electrical integrity across control systems, robotics, and machinery.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in industrial electrical systems and hands-on experience with automation technologies. The position involves designing schematics, specifying components, programming PLCs/HMI, overseeing

Qualifications

• 6+ years in industrial automation and electrical engineering.
• Experience programming PLCs (Siemens S7, Rockwell RSLogix) and developing HMI.
• Proficient with electrical CAD tools (AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN).
• Strong knowledge of electrical codes and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical schematics and control panel layouts for automated manufacturing systems.
• Select and specify electrical components (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, motors, sensors, safety devices).
• Program and configure PLCs and HMI/SCADA systems.
• Oversee installation, wiring and commissioning on the factory floor.
• Troubleshoot and perform root cause analysis on electrical and control issues.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers and clients for seamless integration.
• Develop and maintain electrical documentation (drawings, manuals, test procedures).
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and operations staff.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Electrical CAD

VFDs and servo systems

Industrial networking

Electrical codes & standards

Analytical/problem solving

Communication & teamwork

Independent work

Mechatronics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Siemens S7

Rockwell RSLogix

HMI/SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, committed to enhancing efficiency and productivity for manufacturing clients. They are seeking a highly experienced Senior Automation Electrical Engineer to join their dedicated team based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role is crucial for the design, implementation, and support of sophisticated automated systems. You will be responsible for ensuring the electrical integrity and optimal functionality of control systems, robotics, and machinery. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in industrial electrical systems, deep knowledge of automation technologies, and a passion for delivering robust, reliable solutions in a hands-on environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical schematics and control panel layouts for automated manufacturing systems using CAD software.


• Select and specify electrical components, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, motors, sensors, and safety devices.


• Program and configure PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA systems.


• Oversee the installation, wiring, and commissioning of electrical systems on the factory floor.


• Perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis of electrical and control system issues, implementing corrective actions.


• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, and clients to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.


• Develop and maintain detailed electrical documentation, including drawings, manuals, and test procedures.


• Ensure all designs and installations comply with relevant safety standards and regulations.


• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and operations personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.


• Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial automation and electrical engineering.


• Proven experience in PLC programming (Siemens S7, Rockwell RSLogix) and HMI development.


• Strong understanding of electrical codes and standards (e.g., SANS, IEC, NFPA).


• Proficiency in electrical CAD software such as AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN.


• Experience with VFDs, servo systems, and industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork and client interaction.


• Ability to work independently and manage project timelines effectively.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.


• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development through training programs.
  
• Exposure to diverse industrial sectors and cutting-edge automation technologies.


• A supportive team environment focused on innovation and operational excellence.


• Potential for career growth into project management or specialized engineering roles.