Senior Electrical Technician

Senior Electrical Technician

Durban, South Africa

Company
Sappi
Location
Durban
Posted
13 days ago
Via
via LinkedIn

Job Description
Job description:

We are hiring!

At Sappi, we are a leading global provider with a reputation for delivering high-quality sustainable Woodfibre products and solutions for the global markets. We lead through our values centred around safety, integrity, courage, making smart decisions which we execute with speed. We are seeking unique people who believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive and safe environment.

We’re on the lookout for an experienced Senior Electrical Technician to provide expert high-level technical support to the Electrical and related departments, specifically relating to plant optimization, plant automation, electrical reticulation, and fault diagnosis to maximize the plant's availability.

As a Senior Electrical Technician, you will be responsible for:
• Administer and ensure compliance with accepted standards
• Responsible for the maintenance of all PLC and SCADA Installations and Profibus Networks. Perform system backups. Implementation and commissioning of electrical and PLC system-related projects
• Ensures that all modifications/projects conform fully to Mill Change Management Procedures, Mill Standard Specifications, Mill Safety Standards, and the OHS Act
• Optimisation of plant performance and control characteristics to maintain high plant availability
• Review equipment in line with technological advancement within the industry on an ongoing basis
• Explore quality products at reduced costs in the event of replacement
• Fault-finding malfunctions of field devices and system components with the aid of electrical drawings and test equipment
• Proficiency in specialist areas such as BQS, BCU, PLCs, VFD’s, HV and LV reticulation and Protection Equipment, Power Generator, and Auxiliary Equipment
• Provides on-going training to personnel to perform specific tasks on new equipment, completed projects, and maintenance of equipment. Operator training (limitations due to system interlocks/sequences explained).
• Manages varied multi-disciplinary plant modifications/project work from concept to commissioning and closeout

What are we looking for?
• National Diploma or B Tech in Electrical Engineering
• 5 years of industrial experience in PLC / Profibus knowledge and experience in heavy industrial electrical equipment and systems
• Project Management Experience
• Supervisory experience

What’s in it for you?
• Opportunity to work within a global organisation that continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world even after 80 years of existence
• Learning and development programmes to fast-track your career within Sappi
• Opportunities to travel (dependent on the role)
• Market-leading leave benefits
• Employee wellbeing benefits
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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Electrician Jobs in South Africa

Q What is the national minimum wage for electricians in South Africa in 2026?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage is R32.21 per hour for electricians effective 1 March 2026. This equates to R6,281 per month based on 195 ordinary hours. Sectoral determinations or bargaining councils may set higher rates up to R45 per hour.
Q What work visa do foreign electricians need to apply for jobs in South Africa?
Foreign electricians qualify for the Critical Skills Work Visa as the occupation is listed, valid for up to 5 years from date of issue. The application fee is R1,520 payable at VFS Global centres as of 2026. Processing takes 10-20 working days if documents including qualification verification are complete.
Q What qualifications and experience are required to become a registered electrician in South Africa?
A National Technical N2 Certificate in Electrical Engineering plus passing a trade test at an accredited test centre is mandatory. Applicants need 24 months supervised practical experience before the trade test. Only trade-tested artisans can apply for Wireman's registration.
Q What documents and process are needed to register as an electrician with the government?
Submit certified trade test certificate, ID copy, proof of 24 months experience, and medical fitness certificate to the provincial DOL office. The Wireman's Licence issuance fee is R495, valid for 5 years from 2026. Processing takes 30 working days upon payment.
View all 7 FAQs