Industrial Automation Specialist — Robotics & Optimization

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based incentives

Training in automation technologies

Generous leave policy

Supportive and innovative work env

Job summary

Placements24 client in Welkom, Free State, seeks an Industrial Engineering Specialist with a strong focus on automation. You will evaluate systems, identify automation opportunities, and lead the implementation of robotic and automated solutions across manufacturing and logistics processes.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering with an automation focus, 6+ years of related experience, and hands-on PLC/robotics experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering with automation focus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial engineering with a strong automation background.
• Experience with PLC programming (Siemens/Rockwell) and robotic system integration (KUKA/ABB).
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, control systems, and data acquisition.
• Experience with simulation software for automation design and validation is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration with diverse technical teams.
• Willing to relocate to Welkom, Free State, or be based there.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing and logistics processes to identify automation opportunities.
• Design and develop automation strategies, including robot systems and PLC integration.
• Manage automation projects from conception to implementation and validation.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and operations to ensure integration.
• Create and maintain technical documentation and control logic.
• Conduct process capability studies and data analysis for performance targets.
• Troubleshoot automation systems and equipment.
• Stay updated on emerging automation technologies and recommend adoption.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Automation

PLC programming

Robot integration

Project management

Lean Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering (automation focus)

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

KUKA robotics

Job description

Placements24 client in Welkom, Free State, seeks an Industrial Engineering Specialist with a strong focus on automation. You will evaluate systems, identify automation opportunities, and lead the implementation of robotic and automated solutions across manufacturing and logistics processes.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering with an automation focus, 6+ years of related experience, and hands-on PLC/robotics experience.