About the Role
Our client, a key player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Electrical Design Engineer to join their established team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This position is integral to the design, development, and implementation of advanced electrical systems for new plant constructions and upgrades. The role demands extensive experience in industrial electrical design, particularly within hazardous environments. You will be responsible for leading design initiatives, ensuring compliance with stringent safety and industry standards, and contributing to the overall efficiency and reliability of our client's operations. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to shape critical infrastructure in a vital economic sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the electrical design process for major industrial projects, including power distribution, motor control centres, and instrumentation systems.
- Develop detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts using ECAD software.
- Specify electrical components and equipment, ensuring they meet project requirements and industry standards for hazardous areas (e.g., ATEX, IECEx).
- Perform electrical load calculations, short circuit analysis, and arc flash studies.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including process engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers.
- Review and approve electrical designs and specifications submitted by vendors and contractors.
- Ensure all designs comply with relevant codes, standards (e.g., SANS, IEC), and client specifications.
- Provide technical support during the construction, commissioning, and start-up phases of projects.
- Conduct site surveys and inspections to gather data for design and verification purposes.
- Mentor and guide junior electrical engineers and designers.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
- A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in electrical design engineering, with a significant portion in industrial or process plant environments.
- Expertise in designing electrical systems for hazardous locations is mandatory.
- Proficiency in industry-standard ECAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
- Strong knowledge of power system analysis tools (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E) is highly desirable.
- In-depth understanding of electrical codes, standards, and safety regulations pertinent to industrial facilities.
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
- Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management abilities.
- Experience with project lifecycle management and construction oversight.
- Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is an advantage.
Benefits
- Our client offers an attractive salary package, along with comprehensive medical aid and a substantial provident fund.
- Opportunities for international training and development are available.
- Employees are encouraged to participate in industry-specific workshops and conferences.
- The role provides exposure to large-scale, impactful projects within a major industrial hub.
- A performance-based bonus system is in place.
- The company values continuous learning and provides resources for professional growth.
- A safe and stimulating work environment is guaranteed, with a focus on employee well-being and career advancement.