Qualified Electrician (Industrial Plant Installations)

Qualified Electrician (Industrial Plant Installations)


Company
Synlec (Pty) Ltd
Location
Johannesburg
Salary
R 300K–R 450K a year
Posted
3 days ago
Via
via JobLeads
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Job Description
We are looking for a qualified Red Seal Electrician or BTech Electrical Technician with industrial design and installation experience to join our team. This mid‑level role is based in South Africa and involves working on electrical installations at industrial plant sites, with occasional project assignments in other African countries. The Electrician will be responsible for designing, installing, maintaining, and commissioning electrical and instrumentation systems in an industrial environment, ensuring that all work meets engineering and safety standards and is completed efficiently. The ideal candidate has solid experience in industrial electrical work, is proficient in testing and commissioning procedures, and can supervise junior electricians to maintain high quality and safety on site. Design experience would be advantageous but not essential, the position would allow for growth into a design focused role under the leadership of a senior engineering team.

This role requires extensive site work, often in remote locations, and the ability to work within a diverse and dynamic team.

The candidates fit with the team and willingness to learn is of a higher priority than in depth knowledge or qualifications. Industry experience is the second highest priority.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Electrical Design Work: Specify and review electrical and instrumentation drawings together with drafting personnel and engineers. Set up engineering project deliverables such as cable lists, MCC and component data sheets, general layout drawings etc.
• Electrical Installations: Install and wire electrical equipment, systems, and components on industrial plant sites (motors, control panels, power distribution, lighting, etc.) according to technical drawings and specifications.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Perform routine maintenance and inspections on electrical systems; diagnose faults or malfunctions and carry out necessary repairs to minimize downtime.
• Testing & Commissioning: Conduct thorough testing of installed or repaired electrical systems using appropriate instruments, and commission new installations to verify they operate correctly and safely.
• Supervision: Lead and mentor junior electricians or apprentices on site, providing guidance and oversight to ensure quality workmanship and adherence to safety standards.
• Safety Compliance: Follow and enforce compliance with South African electrical codes and safety regulations (e.g. SANS 10142 and the OHS Act). Identify potential safety hazards and take corrective action to maintain a safe work environment.
• Planning & Coordination: Work closely with project managers, engineers, and other trades to plan and schedule electrical work. Ensure that electrical installations are completed on time and integrated smoothly with other project activities.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of all electrical work, including job cards, maintenance logs, and test/commissioning reports. Provide progress updates and report any technical issues or improvements identified on site.
• Continuous Improvement: Suggest and implement improvements to electrical systems or installation practices to enhance reliability, efficiency, and safety in the plant environment.

Qualifications and Requirements
• Certification: Red Seal certified Electrician/BTech Electrical Technician (Trade Test passed) – compulsory.
• Experience: 3–5 years of post‑qualification experience with industrial electrical installations and maintenance in a plant or heavy‑industry environment. – compulsory
• Supervisory Ability: Proven ability to supervise and mentor junior electricians or apprentices in a site environment.
• Technical Skills: Strong fault‑finding and troubleshooting skills in electrical systems. Able to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Testing Proficiency: Hands‑on experience with electrical testing equipment and commissioning procedures for new installations or equipment.
• Standards & Safety: Good knowledge of South African electrical standards and safety regulations (e.g. SANS 10142-1 and the Occupational Health and Safety Act). Committed to safe work practices at all times.
• Additional Qualifications (Advantageous): Any further certifications or training will be an advantage – for example, a Wireman’s License (Registered Installation Electrician), an N4/N5 or National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, or specialized training in PLCs/automation or high‑voltage systems.
• Soft Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with good problem‑solving aptitude.
• Other Requirements: Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel for project assignments (within South Africa and occasionally to other African countries). Flexibility to work overtime or adjust hours when required to meet project deadlines or operational needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Electrician Jobs

Q What is the minimum wage for Electrician Jobs in South Africa in 2026?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the minimum wage for Electrician Jobs in South Africa is R35.75 per hour as of 1 March 2026. Qualified electricians must receive at least R22,500 monthly for a 40-hour week with overtime paid at 1.5 times the rate.
Q What education and experience are required to qualify as an electrician in South Africa?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, applicants need a National Certificate in Electrical Engineering NQF Level 4 plus a completed apprenticeship of at least 3 years. A valid trade test certificate from a registered SETA is mandatory before any paid electrical work.
Q What documents are needed to apply for an electrician position in South Africa?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, applicants must submit a certified ID copy, trade test certificate, NQF Level 4 qualification, and proof of 3 years apprenticeship experience. A valid wireman’s licence from the Department of Labour is also required for domestic installations.
Q What are the standard working hours and leave entitlements for electricians in South Africa?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, electricians work a maximum of 45 hours per week with 21 consecutive days of annual leave after 12 months of service. Sick leave is 36 days over a 3-year cycle and family responsibility leave is 3 days per year.
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