Electrical Control Systems Technician

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Provision of diagnostic equipment

Contributory medical aid and pension

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Electrical Control Systems Technician for a hybrid role based in Welkom, South Africa. You will install, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-based control systems across mining-related equipment, including SCADA, HMIs, and VFDs.

The role requires strong automation knowledge, the ability to read schematics, and hands-on diagnostic work with some remote analysis. Travel to client sites may be required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Electrical Control Systems Technician, Industrial Electrician, or Automation Technician.
• Strong knowledge of PLC hardware and software (e.g., Siemens S7, TIA Portal, Rockwell RSLogix).
• Experience with SCADA, HMI development, and VFD configuration.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and control diagrams.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Relevant technical qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A valid driver's license and ability to travel to client sites within the Free State.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a hybrid setting.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to work overtime or be on standby when required.

Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain electrical control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and SCADA systems.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose electrical and automation faults in industrial machinery and process equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance on control panels, sensors, actuators, and associated electrical components.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control logic.
• Develop, modify, and debug PLC programs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) as required.
• Configure and calibrate control system parameters to optimize performance.
• Assist with the integration of new automation technologies and upgrades.
• Respond to urgent breakdowns and provide timely resolutions to minimize operational disruptions.
• Ensure compliance with electrical safety standards and company policies.
• Maintain detailed records of all maintenance, troubleshooting, and programming activities.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

Industrial automation

Electrical control systems

HMI development

VFD configuration

Electrical schematics reading

Profibus/Ethernet/IP

Education

Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics qualification

Tools

Siemens S7

TIA Portal

Rockwell RSLogix

Job description

About the Role

About the Role Our client, a growing mining support services company in Welkom, Free State , is seeking a skilled Electrical Control Systems Technician to join their dedicated team. This role is essential for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of complex electrical control systems used in heavy machinery and processing equipment. We are looking for a candidate with a robust background in industrial automation, PLC programming, and SCADA systems. The ideal individual will possess a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work effectively in a challenging industrial environment. Your responsibilities will include ensuring the reliability and efficiency of critical control systems, minimizing downtime, and contributing to the overall operational success of our clients. This position requires a combination of on-site diagnostic work and the potential for some remote system analysis or programming adjustments, offering a dynamic hybrid work experience. The role is based in Welkom , a key center for mining operations in the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain electrical control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and SCADA systems.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose electrical and automation faults in industrial machinery and process equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance on control panels, sensors, actuators, and associated electrical components.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control logic.
• Develop, modify, and debug PLC programs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) as required.
• Configure and calibrate control system parameters to optimize performance.
• Assist with the integration of new automation technologies and upgrades.
• Respond to urgent breakdowns and provide timely resolutions to minimize operational disruptions.
• Ensure compliance with electrical safety standards and company policies.
• Maintain detailed records of all maintenance, troubleshooting, and programming activities.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Electrical Control Systems Technician, Industrial Electrician, or Automation Technician.
• Strong knowledge of PLC hardware and software (e.g., Siemens S7, TIA Portal, Rockwell RSLogix).
• Experience with SCADA systems, HMI development, and VFD configuration.
• Proficiency in reading and understanding electrical schematics and control diagrams.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Relevant technical qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A valid driver's license and ability to travel to client sites within the Free State.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a hybrid setting.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to work overtime or be on standby when required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
• Opportunity to work on advanced automation and control systems.
• Exposure to the mining and industrial sectors.
• Continuous learning and professional development opportunities.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Provision of necessary diagnostic equipment and tools.
• Contributory medical aid and pension fund.