Senior Electrical Engineer - Automation

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Annual bonus

Career development

Generous leave entitlement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Electrical Engineer specializing in automation to join our mining/processing operations in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will design, implement, and maintain advanced electrical and control systems, including PLCs, SCADA, and HMI, ensuring safety, reliability, and efficiency.

You will lead cross-disciplinary teams, troubleshoot complex systems, and drive continuous improvement while adhering to Mine Health and Safety Act requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years in industrial automation and electrical engineering.
• Proven experience with PLC programming and HMI/SCADA systems.
• Strong knowledge of electrical distribution and instrumentation.
• Experience with Profinet/Ethernet/IP networking.
• Familiarity with electrical CAD software.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement electrical control systems for industrial processes (PLCs, SCADA, HMI).
• Troubleshoot and maintain automation systems to minimize downtime.
• Conduct root cause analysis for electrical and automation failures and implement corrective actions.
• Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using CAD software.
• Specify and select electrical components and control equipment.
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and regulations (Mine Health and Safety Act).
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers and operations teams on projects.
• Provide training and support to maintenance personnel and operators.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies in industrial automation and control systems.
• Contribute to preventative maintenance programs for electrical and automation equipment.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Electric distribution

Industrial networking

AutoCAD Electrical

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and processing industry, is seeking a highly motivated Senior Electrical Engineer with a specialization in automation to join their operations in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role is critical in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and reliability of their automated production systems. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced electrical and control systems, including PLCs, SCADA, and HMI applications. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in industrial automation, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to system improvement. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to optimize operational performance and drive innovation. We offer a challenging work environment with opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a significant impact on large-scale industrial processes. Join a company that values technical expertise and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement electrical control systems for industrial processes, including PLCs, SCADA, and HMI applications.
• Troubleshoot and maintain existing automation systems to minimize downtime and ensure optimal performance.
• Conduct root cause analysis for electrical and automation failures and implement corrective actions.
• Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using CAD software.
• Specify and select electrical components, instrumentation, and control equipment.
• Ensure all designs and installations comply with relevant safety standards and regulations, including Mine Health and Safety Act requirements.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, and operations teams to deliver successful automation projects.
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance personnel and operators.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies in industrial automation and control systems.
• Contribute to the development and execution of preventative maintenance programs for electrical and automation equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial automation and electrical engineering.
• Proven experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell ControlLogix) and HMI/SCADA systems (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Strong understanding of electrical distribution, motor control, and instrumentation.
• Experience with industrial networking (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical).
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Knowledge of safety standards relevant to mining or heavy industry is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the company.
• Exposure to large-scale, complex industrial projects.
• A stable and supportive working environment in Bloemfontein, Free State.
• Annual bonus and performance-related rewards.
• Generous leave entitlement.