Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development and training

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer in Mossel Bay to lead design, development, and testing of vehicle electrical systems. You will work on wiring harnesses, power management, and control modules, guiding cross‑functional teams to deliver robust architectures.

The role requires 6+ years in automotive electrical design, strong leadership, and ISO 26262 awareness. Hybrid work setup offered in a coastal South African setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in automotive electrical design and development.
• In-depth knowledge of automotive electrical architectures, including power electronics, ECUs, and comms networks.
• Proficiency with electrical CAD tools (Capital, Zuken E3) and simulation software.
• Experience with automotive diagnostic tools and techniques.
• Strong understanding of ISO 26262 functional safety principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive electrical systems including wiring harnesses, power distribution, and control modules.
• Specify and select electrical components meeting performance, cost, and reliability requirements.
• Develop and execute test plans for electrical systems including integration testing and validation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical issues during development and production.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure seamless system integration.
• Create and maintain detailed electrical schematics, documentation, and specifications.
• Mentor and guide junior electrical engineers.

Skills

Electrical engineering

Automotive systems design

Automotive networks (CAN/LIN/Ethernet)

Electrical CAD tools

ISO 26262

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Capital

Zuken E3

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering automotive technology firm located in the scenic coastal town of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , is looking for an experienced Senior Automotive Electrical Engineer to lead critical projects in vehicle electrical systems. This role involves the design, development, integration, and testing of complex electrical architectures for next-generation vehicles, including advanced infotainment systems, power management solutions, and connectivity features. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of automotive electrical engineering principles, a proven track record in complex system design, and the ability to mentor junior engineers. You will work at the forefront of automotive innovation, contributing to the development of sophisticated and reliable electrical systems that define the future of driving. This position requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and strong leadership capabilities. We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where innovation thrives. Join our team and help shape the electrical future of automobiles in a beautiful South African setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive electrical systems, including wiring harnesses, power distribution, and control modules.


• Specify and select electrical components, ensuring they meet performance, cost, and reliability requirements.


• Develop and execute test plans for electrical systems, including integration testing and validation.


• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical issues encountered during development and production.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, software, systems engineering) to ensure seamless system integration.


• Create and maintain detailed electrical schematics, documentation, and specifications.


• Mentor and guide junior electrical engineers, providing technical direction and support.


• Stay abreast of emerging automotive electrical technologies, standards, and industry best practices.


• Contribute to defining the future electrical architecture strategy for new vehicle platforms.


• Ensure compliance with relevant automotive standards and regulations (e.g., ISO 26262 for functional safety).

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.


• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in automotive electrical systems design and development.


• In-depth knowledge of automotive electrical architectures, including power electronics, ECUs, and communication networks (CAN, LIN, Ethernet).


• Proficiency with electrical CAD tools (e.g., Capital, Zuken E3) and simulation software.


• Experience with automotive diagnostic tools and techniques.


• Strong understanding of functional safety principles (ISO 26262) is highly desirable.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.


• Proven leadership and mentoring abilities.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.


• Familiarity with mixed-signal electronics and embedded system design.


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package reflecting your experience and expertise.


• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided.


• A generous retirement savings plan with employer contributions is available.


• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including training and conference attendance, are encouraged.


• We foster a collaborative and innovative work culture, with regular team events.


• This role is based in the picturesque environment of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , offering a unique lifestyle and work balance.


• The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility, combining office-based collaboration with remote work convenience.