Automation and Control Engineer

Placements24; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 41,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Automation and Control Engineer to design, program, and commission advanced automation systems for diverse industrial clients. The role blends remote work with on-site client visits for project implementation and support.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in industrial automation, strong PLC programming (Siemens S7, Rockwell) and HMI/SCADA (Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC), plus knowledge of Profinet/EtherNet/IP/Modbus TCP/IP.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or related field.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proven PLC programming proficiency (Siemens S7, Rockwell).
• Strong HMI/SCADA software experience (Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC).
• Strong understanding of Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC and DCS control strategies.
• Program and configure HMI/SCADA systems for visualization and control.
• Specify automation hardware and select I/O modules, sensors, actuators.
• Create detailed electrical drawings, control narratives, and docs.
• Commission new systems; conduct FAT/SAT; provide client support.
• Troubleshoot complex automation issues and resolve quickly.
• Collaborate with clients, PMs, and other engineering disciplines.
• Stay current with automation tech, software updates, best practices.
• Provide technical training and client support.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of automation solutions.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Industrial networking

Troubleshooting

Client engagement

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens S7

Rockwell Logix 5000

Wonderware

Ignition

WinCC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialist provider of industrial automation solutions, is seeking a skilled Automation and Control Engineer to join their team in Randburg . This position embraces a hybrid work model, blending remote flexibility with essential on‑site client visits for project implementation and support. You will be instrumental in designing, programming, and commissioning advanced automation systems for a diverse range of industrial clients. The ideal candidate will possess a strong command of PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, industrial networking, and robust troubleshooting capabilities. Your role will involve working closely with clients to understand their needs, developing tailored automation solutions, and ensuring seamless integration into their operations. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with cutting‑edge technology and contribute to the efficiency and modernization of various industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC and DCS control strategies for various industrial processes.
• Program and configure HMI/SCADA systems for effective process visualization and operator control.
• Specify and select automation hardware, including controllers, I/O modules, sensors, and actuators.
• Develop and maintain detailed electrical drawings, control narratives, and system documentation.
• Commission new automation systems, conduct loop checks, and perform Factory and Site Acceptance Tests (FAT/SAT).
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation issues, providing timely support to clients.
• Collaborate with clients, project managers, and other engineering disciplines to ensure project success.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies, software updates, and industry best practices.
• Provide technical training and support to client personnel.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of automation solutions and project execution methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell Logix 5000) and HMI/SCADA software (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC).
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Experience with VFDs, servo drives, and robotics is advantageous.
• Ability to read and interpret complex electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control system architecture diagrams.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients and team members.
• Willingness to travel locally and occasionally internationally for project assignments.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, commensurate with your experience and skills. This hybrid role provides a significant degree of flexibility, balancing remote work with essential on‑site engagement. Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and a retirement savings plan. Our client invests in its employees' professional growth, offering opportunities for advanced training, certifications, and exposure to diverse industrial projects. You will work in a dynamic environment with a team of highly skilled professionals, contributing to innovative automation solutions. Join a company that values expertise, collaboration, and forward‑thinking technology implementation.