Senior Automation & Control Engineer

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 54,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Pension fund

Training and certifications

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automation & Control Engineer for an on-site role in Welkom, Free State. You will design and implement PLC/SCADA systems, test software, and configure industrial networks.

The position requires 6+ years in automation, with Siemens S7 and Rockwell experience; mining/ heavy industry exposure is a plus. You will lead projects, ensure safety compliance, and produce technical documentation while collaborating with operations and maintenance teams to optimize

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 6+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in major PLC brands (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell) and SCADA/HMI software.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC/SCADA/HMI systems for industrial projects.
• Program, test, and debug automation control software across platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley).
• Configure and commission industrial networks and protocols (Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Troubleshoot automation system issues and minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation (P&IDs, electrical drawings, manuals).
• Collaborate with operations/maintenance to identify automation improvements.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

Automation design

Troubleshooting

Industrial networks

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens S7

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley

SCADA/HMI software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a talented and driven Senior Automation & Control Engineer to join their expanding operations in Welkom, Free State . This role is central to optimizing and modernizing industrial processes through the design, implementation, and maintenance of sophisticated automation and control systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in industrial automation, PLC programming, SCADA systems, and process control. You will be responsible for ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and safety of automated machinery and production lines. This position offers a dynamic work environment where you can leverage your expertise to solve complex technical challenges and contribute to significant improvements in operational performance. Our client is committed to investing in its employees, providing opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive team setting. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about innovation and continuous improvement in automation technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC/SCADA/HMI systems for industrial automation projects.
• Program, test, and debug automation control software across various platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley).
• Configure and commission industrial networks and communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation system issues, minimizing downtime.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including P&IDs, electrical drawings, and operation manuals.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to identify areas for automation improvement.
• Oversee the integration of new automation technologies into existing plant infrastructure.
• Conduct training for operational staff on new automation systems and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations for automated systems.
• Participate in the selection and evaluation of automation hardware and software vendors.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming and configuring major PLC brands (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell Logix) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks, robotics, and variable speed drives.
• Experience with process control strategies and implementation.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in the mining or heavy industry sector is a plus.
• Willingness to work on‑site in Welkom, Free State with occasional travel.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, commensurate with experience, and provides performance-based bonuses.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid and a substantial pension fund.
• We support continuous professional development through training programs and opportunities to acquire new certifications.
• Generous annual leave and other paid time off benefits are provided.
• This role offers the chance to work on exciting automation projects that significantly impact operational efficiency.
• Relocation assistance is available for suitable candidates relocating to Welkom, Free State .
• Join a company that values innovation and employee growth.