Industrial Engineering Specialist - Automation

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

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing entity in the agricultural technology sector based in Welkom, Free State, is looking for an Industrial Engineering Specialist with a strong focus on Automation. This role is crucial for driving innovation and efficiency in their manufacturing and operational processes through the integration of advanced automation solutions. You will be responsible for evaluating current systems, identifying automation opportunities, and managing the implementation of robotic and automated technologies. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of industrial engineering principles, coupled with hands-on experience in automation projects. This is a pivotal role within a forward-thinking company located in the heart of the Free State province, offering a unique blend of challenging work and regional charm.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing and logistical processes to identify opportunities for automation.
• Design and develop automation strategies, including the selection and integration of robotic systems, PLCs, and other automated equipment.
• Manage automation projects from conception through to implementation and validation, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of automated solutions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including functional specifications, control system logic, and troubleshooting guides.
• Perform process capability studies and data analysis to ensure automated systems meet performance targets.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to automated systems and equipment.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and recommend adoption where beneficial.
• Contribute to the overall continuous improvement efforts within the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with an automation focus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a significant portion dedicated to automation projects.
• Proven experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) and robotic system integration (e.g., KUKA, ABB).
• Strong understanding 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 skills, with the ability to work with diverse technical teams.
• Familiarity with Lean and Six Sigma principles.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Welkom, Free State.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Medical aid and provident fund.
• Performance-based incentives and annual bonus structure.
• Opportunities for specialized training and certifications in automation technologies.
• Generous leave policy.
• A supportive and innovative work environment.