Electrical, Automation & Commissioning Engineer

Responsibilities / Tasks

Commissioning & Project Execution

• Lead and execute mechanical, electrical, and automation commissioning activities on refrigeration plants and projects.
• Schedule, manage, and execute all commissioning activities in consultation with project managers and electrical engineers.
• Perform and support Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) with mechanical and electrical engineers and, where applicable, the end customer.
• Study, interpret, monitor, and discuss project design and planning to establish effective commissioning and shutdown schedules.
• Test electrical panels and ensure FAT results are signed off and properly filed.
• Prepare and use standardized commissioning sheets and documentation.
• Compile and finalize project commissioning documentation in prescribed locations.
• Ensure commissioning tasks are assigned efficiently to minimize duration and maximize billable hours.
• Proactively engage with project managers to plan commissioning schedules and travel arrangements.
• Compile functional narrative/software philosophy documents in conjunction with mechanical engineers based on P&IDs.
• Ensure each electrical panel includes a pre-commissioning sheet in the project file.
• Compile detailed site visit and commissioning reports after each site visit.
• Ensure commissioning documentation is complete, of high quality, and signed off by all required parties.
• Responsible for setting up soft starters and variable speed drives (VSDs), including ABB, WEG, Danfoss, and Omni units. This includes parameter configuration, generating and maintaining backup files.
• Ensuring accurate documentation for all configurations. Applies equally to parametric controllers and PLC systems.
• Responsible for maintaining records of laser alignment reports and ensuring all relevant backup copies are securely stored for traceability history.

Automation & Electrical Systems

• Program, configure, and test PLC and HMI software (Allen Bradley, Schneider Electric, Danfoss, Carel, Siemens, etc.).
• Develop and review control philosophies, functional narratives, and I/O lists.
• Interface automation systems with mechanical processes based on P&ID logic.
• Support panel design, pre-commissioning checks, and review/sign-off of electrical drawings (experience with E-Plan/Cortex is advantageous).
• Update and maintain electrical drawings to reflect changes; ensure the latest approved versions are shared with relevant teams and properly archived for record-keeping and future reference.
• Ensure testing of electrical panels is signed off, and delegate responsibly when unavailable.

Cloud Connectivity:

• Set up hardware for cloud connection devices.
• Simulate cloud connection with Omni simulation panel prior to installation.
• Manage data protection documentation with clients and ensure that documentation is received prior to equipment being released.
• Assist with support during installation phase.
• Ensure connection to devices is active.
• Log in and check status. E.g.: alarms and shutdowns, basic operating conditions.

Technical Support & Troubleshooting

• Perform root cause analysis of automation, electrical, and refrigeration system faults.
• Provide direct and remote technical support to field service engineers and project managers.
• Manage field service engineers when required to execute commissioning tasks.
• Support the service and service projects team on commissioning, technical support, and troubleshooting.
• Provide on-site assistance and guidance during system failures and startup processes.
• Attend to technical queries and customer complaints, ensuring satisfaction and follow-up during client meetings.
• Maintain accurate technical records and commissioning files.

Collaboration & Communication

• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, including engineering, service, and project teams, to meet milestones.
• Attend design reviews, risk assessments, and site meetings.
• Guide and coach colleagues in engineering, service, and project teams, promoting knowledge sharing.
• Escalate work-related issues to the Team Leader - Engineering.
• Transfer technical knowledge across the organization to support innovation and continuous improvement.

Process & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement improvements to standard commissioning processes and templates.
• Ensure best practices and lessons learned are documented and reused across projects.
• Promote compliance with GEA QHSE regulations and exceed industry standards where possible.
• Use and maintain latest standardized documentation templates.
• Optimize time booking efficiency to projects, service jobs, or internal activities.

Your Profile / Qualifications

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Trade Test in Industrial Refrigeration (advantageous).
• SAQCC Category B Registered Refrigeration Gas Practitioner.

Skills & Experience

• 5–10 years’ experience in industrial refrigeration and automation commissioning.
• Proven experience with PLC/HMI/SCADA systems (Allen Bradley, Schneider Electric, Danfoss, etc.).
• Proficient in interpreting P&IDs, CAD drawings, electrical schematics, and E-Plan.
• Knowledge of instrumentation, sensors, soft starters, VFDs, and industrial networks.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with QHSE regulations, relevant SANS codes, and electrical safety standards.
• Skilled in MS Office and other engineering support tools.

Key Competencies

• Strong ownership and accountability
• Customer-focused and proactive communicator
• Analytical and detail-driven
• Collaborative team player and mentor
• Adaptable, self-driven

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