Senior Electrical Systems Engineer (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work-enabled

Global project exposure

Professional development resources

Flexible work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Electrical Systems Engineer for our fully remote engineering division. You will define, design, and implement complex electrical systems for advanced automation, collaborating with international teams from any location.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in electrical systems design, PLC/HMI expertise, and strong knowledge of safety standards. This role offers autonomy, flexible remote work, and opportunities to contribute to state-of-the-art automation projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering; Master's preferred.
• 8+ years hands-on experience in electrical systems design and integration, automation/machinery.
• Proficiency with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell), HMI development, and VFD configuration.
• Strong knowledge of industrial power distribution, control circuits, and safety standards (IEC 60204-1, NFPA 79).
• Experienced with CAD tools (AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN) and industrial networking protocols.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills; able to work independently in a remote setting.

Responsibilities

• Architect, design, and specify complex electrical systems for automated machinery and production lines.
• Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and BOMs using CAD software.
• Select and integrate electrical components including PLCs, HMIs, drives, motors, sensors, and safety devices.
• Design power distribution systems compliant with applicable codes and standards.
• Develop and implement communication protocols for integrated systems (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Provide expert guidance to internal teams and external vendors; troubleshoot remotely.
• Create technical documentation including design specs, test procedures, and user manuals.
• Keep up-to-date with industry 4.0 technologies and drive design process improvements.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Strong communication

Independent / self-motivated

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

EPLAN

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

VFD configuration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced manufacturing technology, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Systems Engineer to join their fully remote engineering division. This position is critical in defining, designing, and implementing complex electrical systems for cutting-edge automation and control solutions. You will work independently from your chosen location, collaborating virtually with international teams of engineers and project managers. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of industrial automation, power electronics, control systems, and network integration, with a proven ability to architect robust and scalable solutions. This role offers the autonomy and flexibility of remote work combined with the challenge of contributing to state-of-the-art technological advancements for a leading industry player.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect, design, and specify complex electrical systems for automated machinery and production lines.
• Develop detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and bills of materials using CAD software.
• Select and integrate electrical components, including PLCs, HMIs, drives, motors, sensors, and safety devices.
• Design power distribution systems, ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standards.
• Develop and implement communication protocols for integrated systems (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Conduct technical reviews and provide expert guidance to internal engineering teams and external vendors.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical and control system issues remotely, often through virtual collaboration.
• Create comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, test procedures, and user manuals.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in automation, electrical engineering, and Industry 4.0.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes, standards, and tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in electrical systems design and integration, preferably in an automation or machinery building environment.
• Extensive knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), HMI development, and variable frequency drive (VFD) configuration.
• Strong understanding of industrial power distribution, control circuits, and electrical safety standards (e.g., IEC 60204-1, NFPA 79).
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
• Experience with industrial networking and communication protocols.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a virtual team setting.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience with safety-rated systems and functional safety (e.g., SIL) is a plus.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience and global industry standards, along with annual performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided, along with a generous retirement savings plan.
• Our client is committed to employee growth, offering access to extensive online training resources, virtual workshops, and opportunities for professional certifications.
• As a remote employee, you benefit from significant flexibility in your work environment.
• The company fosters a collaborative and innovative virtual culture, encouraging work-life balance and providing opportunities to work on challenging, globally impactful projects from anywhere.