Remote Industrial Automation Specialist

Placements24; Willows (CA); Remote; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health & retirement benefits

Home office stipend

Company laptop

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a talented Remote Industrial Automation Specialist to design, develop, and support automated control systems for industrial processes from a home office. The role requires strong PLC/SCADA, robotics, and process control expertise, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize manufacturing efficiency on a global scale.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in electrical or related engineering, 6+ years of hands-on automation experience, and proficiency with Siemens

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 6+ years hands-on industrial automation experience.
• Proficient in PLC programming (Siemens S7, Rockwell).
• Experience with SCADA/HMI platforms (Wonderware, Ignition, FactoryTalk).
• Knowledge of industrial protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Experience with robotic programming (KUKA, FANUC) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement automation solutions including PLC programming, HMI/SCADA, and robotic cell integration.
• Develop and maintain control system software for performance, reliability, and safety.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation issues, remotely or on-site as needed.
• Conduct system testing, commissioning, and validation to meet specifications.
• Collaborate with mechanical/electrical engineers and production managers to define automation requirements.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation (P&IDs, schematics, FDS, user manuals).
• Stay current with IIoT and advanced robotics for process optimization.
• Develop and implement predictive maintenance and remote monitoring strategies.
• Provide technical training and support to plant personnel.

Skills

PLC Programming

SCADA

Robotics integration

VFD configuration

Troubleshooting

Remote collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Tools

Siemens S7

Rockwell ControlLogix/CompactLogix

HMI/SCADA software

Ethernet/IP

Modbus

Profibus

VFDs

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a talented and experienced Remote Industrial Automation Specialist to join their forward-thinking engineering team. This position is fully remote, allowing you to work from anywhere, but based within Welkom, Free State for administrative purposes. You will be responsible for the design, development, implementation, and support of automated control systems for industrial processes. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and process control strategies, coupled with strong programming and troubleshooting skills. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your expertise in automation technologies from the comfort of your home office and contribute to optimizing manufacturing and production efficiency on a global scale.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement industrial automation solutions, including PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI/SCADA development, and robotic cell integration.
• Develop and maintain control system software, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation system issues, both remotely and through on-site support when required.
• Conduct system testing, commissioning, and validation to ensure adherence to design specifications and functional requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and production managers, to define automation requirements and project scope.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, functional design specifications, and user manuals.
• Stay current with advancements in industrial automation technologies, including IIoT, machine learning for process optimization, and advanced robotics.
• Develop and implement strategies for predictive maintenance and remote monitoring of automated systems.
• Provide technical training and support to plant personnel on automated systems.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations throughout all automation projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation, control systems engineering, or a similar role.
• Proficiency in programming and configuring PLCs (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell ControlLogix/CompactLogix) and VFDs.
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software platforms (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, FactoryTalk View).
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Experience with robotic programming (e.g., KUKA, FANUC) is a strong plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a methodical approach to troubleshooting.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, essential for remote teamwork.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and prioritize tasks effectively in a remote setting.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for on‑site commissioning or critical support if absolutely necessary.

Benefits

• Highly attractive annual salary package.
• Significant opportunities for remote work flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Home office stipend for setting up an optimal workspace.
• Continuous professional development and access to specialized training.
• Exposure to cutting‑edge automation technologies and challenging projects.
• Performance‑based bonuses and potential for stock options.
• Company‑provided laptop and necessary software licenses.
• A dynamic and innovative work culture that values remote contribution.