Lead Industrial Automation Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Industrial Automation Engineer for a fully remote role. You will design, implement, and optimize advanced automation systems across global operations, guiding a team of engineers and collaborating with cross-functional groups to meet strategic goals.

The role requires substantial experience with PLCs, robotics, SCADA/HMI, and industrial networks, plus strong leadership and remote collaboration skills to drive projects from concept to delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science with automation focus.
• 8+ years in industrial automation with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell), SCADA systems, and HMI design.
• Proven robotics integration experience with KUKA, Fanuc, ABB.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of complex automation systems including robotics, PLC programming, SCADA, and HMI.
• Develop automation strategies and roadmaps aligned with business objectives for efficiency and scalability.
• Oversee automation projects from conception to commissioning, ensuring on-time, within-budget delivery.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of automation engineers.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and IT to integrate automation solutions.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for automation projects.

Skills

PLC programming

Robot system integration

SCADA/HMI design

Remote team leadership

Industrial networking

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical/Mechanical/CS with automation focus

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

KUKA robots

Fanuc robots

ABB robots

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a visionary Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to spearhead their advanced automation initiatives. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere. You will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and optimizing sophisticated automation systems that drive efficiency and innovation across our global operations. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical knowledge in automation technologies, a strategic approach to problem‑solving, and the ability to lead and mentor a team of engineers. This remote‑first role requires excellent communication and collaboration skills to effectively manage projects and stakeholders virtually. You will be at the forefront of integrating cutting‑edge technologies to redefine our manufacturing and operational capabilities, ensuring we remain competitive and agile in the ever‑evolving industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of complex industrial automation systems, including robotics, PLC programming, SCADA, and HMI.
• Develop automation strategies and roadmaps aligned with business objectives, focusing on efficiency, scalability, and cost‑effectiveness.
• Oversee automation projects from conception through to commissioning, ensuring on‑time and within‑budget delivery.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of automation engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including R&D, operations, and IT, to integrate automation solutions seamlessly.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for automation projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation system issues remotely, minimizing downtime.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and best practices, recommending their adoption where appropriate.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automation systems, including design specifications, programming logic, and operational manuals.
• Ensure automation solutions adhere to safety standards, regulatory requirements, and cybersecurity best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with a strong automation focus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), SCADA systems, and HMI design.
• Proven expertise in robotic system integration and programming (e.g., KUKA, Fanuc, ABB).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex automation projects remotely, utilizing collaboration tools effectively.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills for effective virtual team management and stakeholder engagement.
• Proficiency in simulation software for automation system design and testing.
• Knowledge of IIoT, AI, and machine learning applications in industrial settings is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently and manage workload effectively in a remote setting.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package that recognizes the value of remote expertise. This includes an attractive annual bonus, superior health and wellness benefits, and a generous retirement savings plan. We are committed to your professional growth, providing access to cutting‑edge training, virtual conferences, and opportunities to lead impactful projects on a global scale. Enjoy the flexibility and autonomy of a fully remote role while making a significant impact on our client's technological advancements. Join our innovative team and help shape the future of industrial automation from Tembisa, Gauteng.