Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer

Our client, What Jobs Direct, is at the forefront of automotive innovation and is seeking a talented Automotive Electrical Systems Engineer to join their team in Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal. This role is crucial for the design, development, and integration of sophisticated electrical and electronic systems within next-generation vehicles. You will be responsible for ensuring the optimal performance, reliability, and safety of automotive electrical components, from power distribution to complex control units.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical understanding coupled with practical experience in automotive electrical engineering. This hybrid position allows for a blend of on-site collaboration and remote work, offering flexibility while ensuring close interaction with project teams in our Durban facility. Join us to shape the future of automotive technology in Kwa Zulu-Natal.

• Design and develop electrical system architectures, schematics, and wiring harnesses for automotive applications.
• Specify and select automotive-grade electrical components, including ECUs, sensors, actuators, and power management devices.
• Perform simulations and analyses (e.g., circuit analysis, signal integrity, EMC) to validate electrical system designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, software, manufacturing) to ensure seamless integration of electrical systems.
• Develop and execute test plans for electrical components and systems, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical system issues during prototype development, validation, and production phases.
• Ensure designs comply with automotive industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and failure analysis reports.
• Support the validation and release of new electrical features and components.
• Stay current with emerging trends and technologies in automotive electrical engineering, including electrification and advanced driver‑assist systems (ADAS).

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in automotive electrical system design and development.
• Proficiency with electrical CAD tools (e.g., Zuken E3, Mentor Graphics Capital) and simulation software (e.g., SPICE, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Strong understanding of automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN, Ethernet).
• Knowledge of power electronics, battery management systems, and charging technologies is a plus.
• Experience with automotive functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262) is desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work effectively in both team-based and independent settings.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working in a hybrid work model is beneficial.
• Must be able to work on-site in Durban as required.

This hybrid role offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and pension contributions, and ample opportunities for professional growth and development. You'll be part of an innovative company culture that values collaboration and technological advancement, located in the vibrant city of Durban.