Senior Electrical Engineer: Industrial Automation & Travel

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Health and retirement benefits

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Electrical Engineer in Cape Town to drive industrial automation initiatives. You will oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced electrical control systems, PLC/HMI development, and integration with plant operations.

You will lead a skilled team, ensure safety and regulatory compliance, and collaborate with software and mechanical teams on complex projects in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering; Master’s degree preferred.
• 8+ years in industrial electrical engineering and automation with a proven leadership record.
• Strong PLC programming knowledge (Siemens, Rockwell), HMI/SCADA experience, and industrial networks (Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Solid understanding of electrical safety regulations and risk assessment methods.
• Robotics integration and motion control experience is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and leadership capabilities; strong communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of electrical control systems for industrial automation projects (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, SCADA).
• Create and manage electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control-panel layouts using CAD software.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and testing across production lines.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical/automation issues to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with software and mechanical teams to integrate electrical systems with plant operations.
• Ensure designs comply with IEC 61508, OHS Act and industry best practices.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for electrical and automation initiatives.
• Provide mentorship to a team of electrical and automation engineers and technicians in Cape Town.

Skills

Electrical engineering

Industrial automation

Project leadership

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Electrical safety

Robotics integration

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

CAD software

Ethernet/IP

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Lead Electrical Engineer in Cape Town to drive industrial automation initiatives. You will oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced electrical control systems, PLC/HMI development, and integration with plant operations.

You will lead a skilled team, ensure safety and regulatory compliance, and collaborate with software and mechanical teams on complex projects in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment.