Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Engineering labs in Joe2nnesburg

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer to lead the design, development and testing of complex electrical systems for next‑gen vehicles. This hybrid role combines on‑site collaboration in Johannesburg with remote work to accelerate innovation and ensure quality.

You will mentor engineers, specify requirements, and oversee validation activities, leveraging power electronics, BMS, and ISO 26262 practices to deliver safe, high‑performing architectures.

Qualifications

• 7+ years designing automotive electrical systems.
• Strong knowledge of CAN/LIN/Ethernet networks and safety standards.
• Experience with BMS/high-voltage systems is desirable.
• Proficiency with CAD tools and MATLAB/Simulink for modeling.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical systems and components for automotive applications.
• Specify requirements and performance criteria for vehicle systems.
• Lead testing plans including HIL and vehicle validation.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate cross-functionally.

Skills

Electrical engineering

CAN protocol

LIN protocol

Ethernet

CAD tools

MATLAB/Simulink

SPICE

ISO 26262

BMS/high-voltage

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Electrical Engineering

Tools

E3.series

AutoCAD Electrical

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious automotive manufacturer renowned for its innovation and commitment to quality, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer. This full-time position operates on a hybrid model, blending essential on-site collaboration in Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA with remote flexibility. You will play a crucial role in the design, development, and testing of advanced electrical systems for next-generation vehicles. We are at the forefront of automotive technology, integrating cutting-edge solutions for electric and autonomous driving. This role is perfect for a seasoned engineer passionate about automotive innovation and eager to tackle complex challenges. You will lead critical projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to shaping the future of mobility. Join a dynamic team dedicated to excellence, safety, and performance, driving the evolution of the automotive industry. Your expertise will be pivotal in delivering superior vehicle electrical architectures.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical systems and components for automotive applications, including power distribution, wiring harnesses, sensors, and control units.
• Specify electrical requirements and performance criteria for vehicle systems.
• Conduct analysis and simulations of electrical systems to predict performance and identify potential issues.
• Oversee the integration of electrical components into vehicle architectures, ensuring compatibility and functionality.
• Develop and execute test plans for electrical systems, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and vehicle-level validation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical system issues during prototype development and production phases.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineering, software development, and manufacturing.
• Stay current with emerging automotive electrical technologies, standards, and best practices.
• Mentor and guide junior electrical engineers, fostering technical growth and best practices within the team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in automotive electrical system design and development.
• In-depth knowledge of automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN, Ethernet).
• Experience with automotive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and CAD tools (e.g., E3.series, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Proficiency in simulation and analysis tools (e.g., SPICE, ANSYS, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Strong understanding of automotive functional safety (ISO 26262) and cybersecurity principles.
• Experience with power electronics, battery management systems (BMS), or high-voltage systems is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing on-site and remote tasks.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with annual performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry events.
• Access to state-of-the-art engineering facilities and labs in Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA.
• Be part of shaping the future of the automotive industry with a leading global brand.