Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings

Hybrid work model

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer in Bloemfontein, Free State. The role focuses on design, development, and integration of electrical systems for next‑generation vehicles, ensuring performance, reliability, and safety from power distribution to ECUs.

You will collaborate with cross‑functional teams, mentor junior engineers, and support manufacturing in the early production phases while staying current with electrification and connectivity trends in the automotive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Electronic Engineering or closely related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in automotive electrical system design and development.
• Proficiency with electrical design tools such as AutoCAD Electrical and EPLAN.
• Strong understanding of wiring harness design, connectors, and EMI/EMC principles.
• Knowledge of CAN/LIN and other automotive communication protocols.
• Familiarity with ISO 26262 functional safety.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical systems, wiring harnesses, and electronic components for automotive applications.
• Create detailed schematics and specifications using CAD software.
• Perform electrical load analysis and power distribution planning.
• Coordinate ECU integration and sensor/actuator interfaces.
• Test and validate electrical systems, troubleshoot issues, and implement solutions.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and system teams to ensure performance.
• Ensure designs meet automotive standards and regulatory requirements.
• Support manufacturing during implementation and production phases.
• Stay updated on trends in automotive electronics, electrification, and connectivity.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned player in the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a skilled Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer to join their expanding engineering department in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role is crucial for the design, development, and integration of complex electrical systems and components within next-generation vehicles. You will be responsible for ensuring the performance, reliability, and safety of all electrical architectures, from power distribution to advanced electronic control units (ECUs). This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, providing a balance between in-office collaboration and the flexibility to work remotely. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to bring innovative automotive solutions to life, contributing to the company's reputation for quality and technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical systems, wiring harnesses, and electronic components for automotive applications.
• Create detailed schematics, diagrams, and specifications using CAD software.
• Perform electrical load analysis, circuit protection design, and power distribution strategies.
• Oversee the integration of ECUs, sensors, actuators, and other electronic modules within the vehicle architecture.
• Conduct testing and validation of electrical systems, troubleshooting issues and implementing effective solutions.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, software developers, and system integrators to ensure seamless system performance.
• Ensure all designs comply with automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO 26262 for functional safety) and regulatory requirements.
• Support the manufacturing team during the implementation and production phases of new vehicle models.
• Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in automotive electronics, including electrification and connectivity.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the team's technical growth and knowledge sharing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in automotive electrical system design and development.
• Proficiency in electrical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN) and simulation software.
• Strong understanding of automotive wiring harness design, connector technologies, and EMI/EMC principles.
• Knowledge of power electronics, battery management systems (BMS), and charging systems is advantageous.
• Experience with CAN, LIN, and other automotive communication protocols.
• Familiarity with functional safety standards (ISO 26262).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work systematically.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle (EV) technology is a plus.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary package, along with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive benefits scheme including health insurance and retirement savings. Opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement are readily available. The hybrid work model offers flexibility and a better work-life balance. Access to modern engineering facilities and resources is guaranteed. We offer a dynamic work environment within a company committed to innovation and quality in the automotive sector. Generous annual leave and paid sick days are provided.