Automation and Controls Engineer

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Paid annual leave

Opportunities for specialized training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Automation and Controls Engineer to join a leading manufacturing client in Welkom, Free State. You will design, program, and maintain PLC/HMI systems, ensuring reliable operation of automated equipment on the shop floor.

The role requires hands-on work on site, collaboration with maintenance and production teams, and a strong focus on safety, FAT/SAT tests, and continuous improvement of production processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 3+ years in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency with PLC platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI (FactoryTalk View, WinCC) and SCADA.
• Knowledge of Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP.
• Robotics familiarity with KUKA or FANUC is a plus.
• On-site work in Welkom, Free State.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC and HMI systems for new and existing equipment.
• Program and troubleshoot industrial control systems including motion, robotics, and SCADA.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements.
• Perform FAT and SAT for automated systems.
• Provide training to maintenance personnel and operators.
• Develop electrical schematics and control panel designs.
• Stay current with industry automation trends and safety standards.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Optimize systems for performance and downtime reduction.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics familiarity

Electrical schematics

Control panel design

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Mitsubishi PLCs

FactoryTalk View

WinCC

KUKA robotics

FANUC robotics

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent player in the manufacturing sector, is actively seeking a skilled Automation and Controls Engineer to join their operational team in Welkom, Free State. This role is critical for optimizing production processes, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring the reliable operation of our automated systems. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, programming, and maintenance of control systems, PLCs, HMIs, and robotics. This is an on-site position requiring hands-on engagement with machinery and control panels, working closely with production and maintenance teams. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mind, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for industrial automation. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking company that values innovation and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems for new and existing automation equipment.
• Program and troubleshoot industrial control systems, including motion control, robotics, and SCADA systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and integrate new technologies into production lines.
• Perform root cause analysis on equipment failures and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control panel designs, and technical documentation.
• Conduct factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) for automated systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance personnel and operators on automated equipment.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in automation and control technologies.
• Ensure all automation projects comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Optimize existing automation systems for improved performance, efficiency, and reduced downtime.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI software (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC) and SCADA systems.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Familiarity with robotics programming (e.g., KUKA, FANUC) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, control panel design, and troubleshooting.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Must be able to work on-site in Welkom, Free State.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Paid annual leave.
• Opportunities for specialized training and certification.
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Stable and supportive work environment.