Company
Sappi
Location
Durban
Posted
13 days ago
Via
via LinkedIn
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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
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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Quick answers about Electrician Jobs in South Africa
Q
What is the national minimum wage for electricians in South Africa in 2026?
The national minimum wage applicable to electricians is R31.75 per hour as of 1 March 2026, as gazetted by the Minister of Employment and Labour. This equates to a minimum of R5,780 per month for a standard 45-hour week over 173 working hours. Electricians covered by bargaining councils may have higher rates set by those agreements.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour
Q
What visa do I need as a foreign electrician to work in South Africa in 2026?
Foreign electricians qualify for the Critical Skills Work Visa if listed under electrical occupations on the Critical Skills List, valid for up to 5 years with no labour market test required. Applications require a job offer, SAQA-verified qualifications, and proof of 3 years experience, processed within 20 working days at R1,520 fee. Spouses receive dependent visas with work rights.
Source: Department of Home Affairs
Q
What qualifications and experience are required to become a certified electrician in South Africa?
A National N2 Certificate in Electrical Engineering plus 24 months practical experience and a passing trade test (Section 13) from an accredited Trade Test Centre are required for Red Seal certification. Holders must register as an Installation Electrician with the Department. Apprenticeships last 36 months minimum.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour
Q
What are the standard working hours, leave, and benefits for electricians in South Africa?
Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, electricians work a maximum 45 ordinary hours per week, with overtime at 1.5 times the rate up to 10 hours/week. Employees get 21 consecutive days annual leave per year, 30 days sick leave over 36 months, and 2 weeks paid family responsibility leave. Employers contribute 1% to UIF and skills levy.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour