Senior Electrical Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work

Annual leave

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer specializing in Industrial Automation to join our client in Polokwane, Limpopo. You will design, implement, and maintain automated electrical systems across manufacturing processes, leading PLC programming, HMIs, and VFDs, while guiding upgrades and safety compliance.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field and at least 6 years in industrial automation, with PLC/HMI expertise and strong collaboration with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• At least 6 years' experience in industrial automation and electrical engineering.
• Proven PLC programming experience (Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Strong knowledge of industrial electrical systems, motor controls, and safety.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement electrical control systems for industrial automation.
• Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and VFDs.
• Troubleshoot electrical and automation issues to minimize downtime.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics and panel layouts.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers and production staff to integrate automation.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and company policies.
• Conduct feasibility studies and propose automation improvements.
• Manage automation projects including vendor selection and commissioning.
• Stay updated on emerging automation technologies and propose adoption.
• Provide training to maintenance personnel on automation systems.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Communication

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI/SCADA development

VFDs/servo drives

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturing and industrial solutions provider, is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer with a specialization in Industrial Automation to join their team in Polokwane, Limpopo. This role is pivotal in designing, implementing, and maintaining automated electrical systems that enhance efficiency, safety, and productivity across various manufacturing processes. You will be responsible for everything from system design and PLC programming to troubleshooting complex automation challenges and leading electrical upgrade projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial electrical systems, automation technologies (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, robotics), and a passion for innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to work on state-of-the-art automation solutions within a key industrial region of Limpopo, contributing to the technological advancement of our client's operations in Polokwane.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement electrical control systems for industrial automation processes.


• Program and configure Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).


• Troubleshoot and diagnose electrical and automation system issues, implementing effective solutions to minimize downtime.


• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, panel layouts, and related documentation.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers and production staff, to integrate automation solutions.


• Ensure all electrical designs and installations comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.


• Conduct feasibility studies and recommend automation solutions to improve efficiency and reduce costs.


• Manage electrical aspects of automation projects, including vendor selection, procurement, and commissioning.


• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and propose their adoption where beneficial.


• Provide technical support and training to maintenance personnel and operators on automation systems.

Requirements

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


• A minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial automation and electrical engineering.


• Proven expertise in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA development.


• Strong knowledge of industrial electrical systems, motor controls, power distribution, and safety circuits.


• Experience with VFDs, servo drives, and robotics is highly desirable.


• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and technical drawings.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.


• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.


• Understanding of industry safety standards (e.g., OHSA, IEC 60204).


• Experience working in Polokwane or the Limpopo region is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, coupled with a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance-based incentives.


• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and certifications in automation technologies, are readily available.


• The Polokwane facility provides a dynamic and challenging work environment.


• This hybrid role offers a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, supporting a healthy work-life integration.


• Employees benefit from substantial annual leave and access to wellness programs.


• Join our client and be at the forefront of industrial automation in the Limpopo province.