Senior Electrical Control Systems Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work allowed

Performance bonuses

Contract extensions possible

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Control Systems Engineer for a mining and heavy industry client. The role is remote with occasional site visits, focusing on design, implementation, and optimization of complex control systems for industrial processes.

You will work with PLC/SCADA/HMI, develop control strategies, ensure safety and cybersecurity, and lead projects with vendors and site teams, applying up-to-date automation technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics required.
• 8+ years designing, implementing, and troubleshooting industrial control systems.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA in mining/heavy industry preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and commission electrical control systems, PLCs, SCADA, and HMI for industrial applications.
• Develop control strategies to optimize process efficiency, safety, and equipment performance.
• Troubleshoot complex control systems hardware and software issues.
• Collaborate with process/mechanical engineers and operations teams to define control requirements.
• Prepare design documentation including P&IDs, diagrams, and equipment specs.
• Manage control system projects, including vendor selection and contractor oversight.
• Ensure compliance with standards, safety, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Provide technical support and training to site teams.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

HMI development

Remote collaboration

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) desirable

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

Profibus

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining and heavy industry sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Control Systems Engineer to join their team, operating primarily remotely with occasional site visits. This role is focused on the design, implementation, and optimization of complex control systems for industrial processes, ensuring maximum efficiency, safety, and reliability. You will be at the forefront of integrating advanced automation technologies to enhance operational performance. This position is ideal for a self-motivated engineer who excels in a remote work setting and possesses a deep understanding of industrial automation, control theory, and electrical engineering principles, contributing to the modernization of critical South African industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and commission advanced electrical control systems, PLCs, SCADA, and HMI systems for industrial applications.
• Develop and implement control strategies to optimize process efficiency, safety, and equipment performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues related to control systems hardware and software.
• Collaborate with process engineers, mechanical engineers, and operations teams to define control system requirements.
• Prepare detailed design documentation, including logic diagrams, P&IDs, network architecture, and equipment specifications.
• Manage control system projects, including vendor selection, procurement, and contractor oversight.
• Ensure all control system designs comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Provide technical support and training to site-based teams on control system operations and maintenance.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in industrial automation and control systems.
• Conduct system audits and recommend improvements for performance and reliability enhancements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting industrial control systems.
• In-depth knowledge of PLC programming platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000), HMI development, and SCADA systems.
• Experience with various communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Strong understanding of electrical power distribution, motor controls, and instrumentation.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage complex projects remotely.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with remote and on-site teams.
• Experience in the mining or heavy manufacturing sector is highly advantageous.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is desirable.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary and benefits package, recognizing the specialized skills required. As a primarily remote position, it provides excellent flexibility and work-life balance. Our client is committed to professional development, offering opportunities for advanced training and exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies. You will be part of a company that values innovation and operational excellence, contributing to significant projects within the Free State 's vital industrial sector, while enjoying the benefits of remote work. Potential for performance-based bonuses and long-term contract extensions based on project success.