Electrical Controls Technician - All Interested Applicants/ All Sources at U.S. Embassy South Africa

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• The incumbent reports to the Facilities Manager and serves as a journeyman-level Electrical Controls Technician responsible for skilled maintenance, repair, and optimization of electrical power control systems across the New Consulate Compound (NCC). This includes critical and non-critical components within office buildings, ancillary support and residential facilities, above- and below-ground infrastructure, recreational areas, and other owned or leased properties. The role ensures reliable power supply, safety compliance, and supports facility projects, requiring technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to respond to emergencies 24/7.

Operations & Maintenance Support 

• Operate and maintain Electrical Power Control Systems and building electrical systems (generators, fire alarms, switchgear, transformers, motor control centers).
• Assist with Building Automation System reports for troubleshooting and diagnostics.
• Perform preventive maintenance to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
• Respond to scheduled, unscheduled, and emergency maintenance work orders.
• Inspect, test, calibrate, and update electrical systems for reliability, safety, and compliance.
• Monitor vendor and contractor work for quality and safety.
• Ensure proper use of tools, materials, and maintain inventory.
• Respond to emergency calls 24/7 for critical system failures or safety threats.

Maintenance and Project Support 

• Analyze performance of electrical power generation and distribution systems, report efficiency data.
• Assist in preparing Statements of Work (SOW) and construction documents for repairs and projects.
• Monitor contractor work for compliance with specifications and quality standards.
• Provide guidance and training to staff and contractors on equipment operation and maintenance.
• Support development and implementation of preventive maintenance programs for new or recommissioned systems.

Logistic Support 

• Contribute to workplace safety programs; ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Stay current with technological developments through training and research.
• Perform collateral duties as assigned (e.g., Assistant POSHO, project monitor, vendor escort).
• Participate in training programs sponsored by DOS, manufacturers, and vendors.

Qualifications and Evaluations
Requirements:

• All selected candidates must be able to obtain and hold a SBU security clearance. 
• All selected candidates will be subject to a background investigation and may be subject to a pre-employment medical exam.  
• Selected candidate must be able to begin working within a reasonable period of time 12 weeks upon receipt of agency authorization and/or clearances/certifications or their candidacy may end.

Education Requirements:

• Completion of secondary school is required.
• Successful completion of specialized vocational training program from an accredited institute recognized as producing journeyman level electricians and mechanical system specialist trained in the maintenance of commercial or industrial buildings/facilities is required. A portion of the training must be in Electrical Controls and Automated Systems Technology.

Qualifications:
Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience at the journey level in installation, repair, and maintenance of commercial building electrical systems, including power generation and distribution, grounding, and digital building controls/automation systems.
• Demonstrated progression of responsibility with proven ability to troubleshoot and repair complex equipment, components, and systems.
• At least 2 years’ experience operating and maintaining 3-phase electrical equipment with ampere ratings of 1600 Amps or higher.
• Career history should reflect increasing responsibility in working with complex equipment, control circuits, and building automation systems.

Language: 

• Good English Reading/Writing/Speaking is required
• Please address this language requirement in your ERA application. 

Job Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of electrical theory, Ohm’s Law, and sizing of electrical equipment (generators, transformers, motor starters, circuit wiring, circuit breakers, and related components).
• Proficient in using test instruments to diagnose and repair electrical issues and determining required materials and equipment for repairs.
• Knowledge of safe work practices, including lockout/tag-out procedures for electrical components.
• In-depth technical knowledge of electrical control systems and their integration with other operating systems.
• Familiarity with all makes and models of installed electrical systems, power generation and distribution equipment, switchgear, and mechanical systems.
• Strong technical understanding of major building electrical and mechanical systems, with a specialty in controls.
• Knowledge of International Building Code standards, including electrical and mechanical requirements, as well as fire and life safety codes.
• Please address this factor in your ERA application under Major Duties and Responsibilities.

Skills And Abilities:

• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, riser diagrams, wiring schematics, equipment schedules, O&M manuals, and construction documents.
• Skilled in testing electrical components, taking equipment readings with meters, and using hand tools, power tools, and specialty tools to diagnose and repair issues.
• Proficient in installing, troubleshooting, and repairing building electrical controls, automated systems, and associated components.
• Experience working with emergency standby generator systems and ability to identify frequencies, sounds, color codes, and odors for troubleshooting.
• Strong comprehension of engineering reports, specifications, and technical materials in English.
• Ability to respond efficiently to emergency situations and work in adverse conditions (tight spaces, heights, temperature extremes, indoors/outdoors).
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) for interaction with co-workers, contractors, and vendors.
• Computer literacy: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), report drafting, spreadsheet creation, email communication, and online research.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to manage multiple tasks, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Closing Date: 02/10/2026