Senior Electrical Design Engineer - Instrumentation & Control

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Design Engineer in Paarl, Western Cape, to lead instrumentation and control system design for industrial projects. You will develop detailed electrical schematics, select equipment, and program PLCs/DCS while mentoring junior staff.

This on-site role requires strong client interaction and project leadership. The position emphasizes safety, standards compliance, and seamless integration with process engineering teams, offering growth

Qualifications

• 8+ years of industrial electrical design experience.
• Strong knowledge of instrumentation and control systems.
• Experience with hazardous area classifications and intrinsic safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for instrumentation and control systems on diverse industrial projects.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, loop diagrams, panel layouts, and wiring schedules using CAD software.
• Select instrumentation, control valves, actuators, and safety interlock systems based on process requirements.
• Program and configure PLCs and DCS from leading vendors.
• Develop HMI screens and SCADA systems for process monitoring and operator control.
• Conduct technical reviews of designs and ensure compliance with project specifications and standards.
• Prepare BOQ, specifications, and tender documents for control system hardware and software.
• Collaborate with process/mechanical engineers and project managers for integrated delivery.
• Oversee site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of instrumentation and control systems.
• Provide technical guidance to junior engineers and designers.
• Ensure designs adhere to safety regulations and standards.

Skills

PLC/DCS programming

HMI/SCADA development

Leadership

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent engineering consultancy serving the industrial sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Design Engineer with a specialization in Instrumentation & Control for their operations in Paarl, Western Cape . This critical role involves the design and implementation of sophisticated control systems and instrumentation for process industries, including food and beverage, chemical, and manufacturing. You will lead the electrical design aspects of projects, ensuring seamless integration of automation technologies. This is a hands‑on, office-based position that requires significant client interaction and project leadership. You will be instrumental in delivering robust and efficient automation solutions that enhance operational performance. Our client is committed to delivering high-quality engineering services and fostering long-term client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and engineering for instrumentation and control systems on diverse industrial projects.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, loop diagrams, panel layouts, and wiring schedules using CAD software.
• Select appropriate instrumentation, control valves, actuators, and safety interlock systems based on process requirements.
• Program and configure Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS) from leading vendors.
• Develop Human‑Machine Interface (HMI) screens and SCADA systems for process monitoring and operator control.
• Conduct technical reviews of designs and ensure compliance with project specifications and industry standards.
• Prepare Bill of Quantities (BOQ), specifications, and tender documents for control system hardware and software.
• Collaborate closely with process engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Oversee site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of instrumentation and control systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and designers.
• Ensure all designs adhere to relevant safety regulations and standards.

Requirements

Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, or equivalent qualification. Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in electrical design engineering, with a strong focus on industrial instrumentation and control systems. Proven expertise in PLC/DCS programming and HMI/SCADA development. In-depth knowledge of process instrumentation, control valves, and field instrumentation technologies. Experience with hazardous area classifications and intrinsic safety principles. Familiarity with international standards such as ISA, IEC, and SANS. Strong proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN). Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple project deliverables. Must be eligible to work in South Africa and available for site visits as needed.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits. Our client provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training programs, professional body memberships, and potential for international project involvement. The position is based in our well-equipped Paarl office, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment. Enjoy generous leave allowances and be part of a respected consultancy known for its technical expertise and commitment to client success.