Advanced Automation Systems Technician

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle provided for site Vis

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is working with a client in Mossel Bay, Western Cape to recruit an Advanced Automation Systems Technician. This hands‑on role involves installing, configuring, maintaining and troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs and SCADA systems in demanding industrial environments.

A strong electrical/mechanical background and experience with major PLC brands, industrial networking, and reading schematics are essential to support projects, provide technical guidance, and ensure reliable operation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in automation/industrial technician role.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, P&ID diagrams and control documentation.
• Experience with SCADA configuration and maintenance.
• Proficiency with PLC brands and HMI software.

Responsibilities

• Install, wire, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems per project specs.
• Perform preventive maintenance and calibration of automation equipment.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot hardware/software issues to minimize downtime.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics and P&ID diagrams.
• Collaborate with engineers and production teams on new automation projects.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA systems

Industrial networking

Electrical schematics

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Technical qualifications in electrical engineering / mechatronics / automation

Tools

Siemens

Allen-Bradley

Schneider Electric

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in industrial automation and control systems, is seeking an Advanced Automation Systems Technician to join their dedicated team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This critical role involves the installation, maintenance, configuration, and troubleshooting of complex automation solutions, including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human‑Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong electrical and mechanical background, coupled with a deep understanding of industrial networking and software. You will play a key role in ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of automated processes across various industrial sectors, contributing to productivity and innovation. This is a hands‑on position requiring precision and a commitment to excellence in a challenging operational environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, wire, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems according to project specifications.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and calibration on automated equipment and control systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot hardware and software issues within automation systems, minimizing downtime.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, P&ID diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Modify PLC code and HMI screens under supervision to improve system performance or implement changes.
• Ensure all installations and modifications comply with relevant safety standards and industry regulations.
• Test and validate system functionality before handing over to operations.
• Maintain detailed logs of all maintenance, repair, and configuration activities.
• Collaborate with engineers and production teams to identify automation opportunities and support new project implementations.
• Provide technical support and guidance to site personnel on automation system operation and basic troubleshooting.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Automation Technician or similar role in an industrial setting.
• Proficiency with major PLC brands (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Schneider Electric) and HMI software.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control system documentation.
• Experience with SCADA system configuration and maintenance.
• Excellent diagnostic and problem‑solving skills, with a systematic approach.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Flexibility to work occasional overtime or be on call for urgent issues.
• Relevant technical qualifications in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or automation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advanced training in automation technologies.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging industrial automation projects.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Company vehicle provided for site visits.