Design Engineer

Role Summary:

The Design Engineer plays a pivotal role in driving the success of electrical and automation projects by transforming technical requirements into robust system designs and specifications. This role involves designing comprehensive electrical layouts, developing supporting technical documentation, and producing detailed engineering drawings that enable seamless execution. In addition to design work, the Design Engineer actively engages with field technicians and engineers to solve complex challenges, ensuring that systems are implemented effectively and function reliably in demanding environments.

Approximately 60% of the role is focused on design work, while 40% involves field support and hands-on collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to troubleshoot, advise, and refine systems during and post-deployment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse project requirements and develop electrical and automation system specifications in line with customer and regulatory standards.
• Design electrical layouts and automation solutions, incorporating product integration, panel schematics, and cable routing.
• Generate detailed technical drawings and documentation for production, installation, and commissioning.
• Collaborate with sales, operations, and technical teams to ensure alignment of design intent with commercial and operational objectives.
• Provide field-based technical support during system installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting phases.
• Resolve complex technical issues alongside field engineers, identifying root causes and recommending sustainable solutions.
• Maintain design records, revision histories, and project archives in accordance with engineering and quality management standards.
• Continuously improve design methodologies, drawing libraries, and component standards to enhance project delivery.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety codes, electrical regulations, and industry best practices.

Essential Requirements:

• Electrical engineering qualification (BEng, or equivalent).
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in electrical or automation system design within industrial or commercial sectors.
• Proven proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical) for producing technical drawings and schematics.
• Solid understanding of electrical design principles, standards (e.g., SANS, IEC), and protection methodologies.
• Practical working knowledge of power and automation systems.
• Ability to read, interpret, and create technical documentation and wiring diagrams.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a structured and analytical approach to technical challenges.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Beneficial Requirements:

• Experience providing hands-on technical support or field engineering services.
• Exposure to projects involving system integration, commissioning, or maintenance support.
• Familiarity with panel building, electrical installation, or switchgear applications.
• Customer-facing experience in a solution-oriented technical role.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% for site visits, troubleshooting, and field collaboration.
• Registered or eligible to register as a Professional Engineer.
  

Work Environment & Compensation:

• Location: Hybrid (Head Office with occasional regional or site visits).
• Travel Requirements: Up to 25% travel to customer or site locations across Southern Africa.
• Working Hours: Standard working hours; extended hours during critical project phases may apply.
• Compensation Range: Aligned with C5 Paterson Grade; RewardOnline benchmarked compensation between 25%–75% quartiles for equivalent roles.
  

Organisational Context:

At EM, we are driven by the purpose of "Making connections, powering tomorrow." We power our customers' worlds by integrating quality products into innovative solutions, supported by people who are passionate about service.

• Vision: Advance the lives of every person in Southern Africa sustainably through electrification and automation.
• Mission: Connect with customers by deeply understanding their evolving needs; promote brands and solutions to solve tomorrow's problems today; and partner across the value chain in a sustainable, easy-to-do-business way.

Values:

• Open – We communicate honestly and transparently, listening deeply to differing views.
• Loyal – We serve our customers, colleagues, and manufacturers with integrity and dedication.
• Brave – We go beyond comfort zones, taking on new challenges with courage and vision.