Control Systems Technician

Placements24; Queenstown (MD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a skilled Control Systems Technician to install, maintain and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems in Queenstown. You will work with engineers and maintenance staff to ensure high reliability of automated production lines and support improvements in control architectures.

The role requires a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics, at least 3 years of experience, and proficiency with Siemens/Allen-Bradley platforms, VSDs and industrial networking.

Qualifications

• Bachelors/technician level electrical qualification or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in maintaining and troubleshooting industrial control systems.
• Must be able to read electrical schematics and control diagrams.
• Experience with major PLC platforms (Siemens/AB) and HMI software.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems and related control hardware.
• Diagnose and resolve faults in control systems to restore operations quickly.
• Perform preventive maintenance on control system components and instrumentation.
• Update PLC programs and HMI configurations per procedures.
• Troubleshoot industrial networks and communication protocols.
• Interpret electrical schematics and control diagrams.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards.
• Maintain records of maintenance activities and diagnostics.
• Collaborate with engineers to implement improvements and upgrades.
• Provide technical support to operators and maintenance personnel.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Electrical troubleshooting

Fault diagnosis

Education

National Diploma in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

VSDs

Industrial networking

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Control Systems Technician to join their dynamic operations team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This pivotal role involves the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of sophisticated control systems that underpin their production processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Variable Speed Drives (VSDs), and industrial networking. You will be responsible for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of automated machinery, minimizing downtime, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives. Working within the industrial landscape of Queenstown, this position demands a proactive approach to problem‑solving, meticulous attention to detail, and a firm commitment to safety standards. The successful candidate will work closely with engineers and maintenance staff to maintain and enhance system performance. This is a hands‑on role requiring technical expertise and a dedication to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and related control hardware.
• Diagnose and resolve faults in control systems and automated machinery, ensuring rapid restoration of operations.
• Perform regular preventive maintenance on control system components and instrumentation.
• Update and modify PLC programs and HMI configurations as required, following established procedures.
• Troubleshoot industrial networks and communication protocols.
• Interpret electrical schematics, control diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Ensure all work complies with relevant safety regulations and industry standards.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, system changes, and diagnostic findings.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to implement system improvements and upgrades.
• Provide technical support to operators and maintenance personnel on control system‑related issues.

Requirements

• National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical qualification.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in maintaining and troubleshooting industrial control systems.
• Proven experience with major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) and HMI software.
• Knowledge of VSDs, motor control, instrumentation, and industrial networking (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Ability to read and interpret complex electrical schematics and control system diagrams.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a methodical approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel within the Eastern Cape, particularly in the Queenstown vicinity.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, often under pressure.
• Willingness to participate in standby duties and work overtime when necessary.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a retirement fund, and opportunities for specialized training in control system technologies. They provide a supportive work environment and a commitment to employee development. Join a key player in the industrial sector of Queenstown and contribute to advancing their automation capabilities. This role offers a stable career path and the chance to work with modern control systems in the Eastern Cape.