Automation and Control Systems Engineer

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 960,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automation and Control Systems Engineer to join our team in Gauteng. You will design, implement, and maintain advanced control systems for manufacturing, process control, and infrastructure projects, driving efficiency, safety, and reliability through PLC programming, HMI development, and robust documentation.

The role requires a strong background in control theory, PLC programming, and modern automation practices, with travel to client sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Strong PLC programming skills (Ladder Logic, Structured Text) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Experience with Profibus, Modbus, and Ethernet/IP communication protocols.
• Ability to read P&IDs, electrical schematics, and control logic.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities; willing to travel to client sites.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop automation and control system architectures (PLC, SCADA, HMI).
• Program and configure PLC platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron) and related software.
• Develop user-friendly HMI/SCADA interfaces for process visualization and control.
• Perform system integration, testing, and commissioning on-site at client locations.
• Provide technical support, troubleshooting, and maintenance for existing systems.
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams to define project requirements.
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices in automation and control.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation.

Skills

PLC programming (Ladder Logic, ST)

HMI/SCADA development

System integration & commissioning

Reading P&IDs and electrical schem

Cybersecurity best practices (industry

Communication & teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Omron PLC

Profibus

Modbus

Ethernet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent industrial automation company, is seeking an experienced Automation and Control Systems Engineer to join their dedicated team in Tembisa, Gauteng . This role is critical for designing, implementing, and maintaining sophisticated control systems for various industrial applications, including manufacturing, process control, and infrastructure projects. You will play a key role in enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and reliability through the application of advanced automation technologies. The successful candidate will possess a strong aptitude for control theory, PLC programming, HMI development, and a commitment to delivering high-quality engineering solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to industrial advancement and grow your expertise in a challenging and rewarding setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop automation and control system architectures, including PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems.
• Program and configure various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron) and associated software.
• Develop user-friendly and efficient HMI/SCADA interfaces for process visualization and control.
• Perform system integration, testing, and commissioning of automated systems on-site and at client locations.
• Provide technical support, troubleshooting, and maintenance for existing automation systems.
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams to define project requirements and deliver tailored automation solutions.
• Stay current with industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in industrial automation and control.
• Develop and maintain detailed technical documentation, including functional design specifications, programming manuals, and wiring diagrams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Strong proficiency in PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, etc.) and HMI/SCADA software development.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
• Knowledge of industrial networking and cybersecurity best practices.
• Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, electrical schematics, and control logic.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities, capable of interacting with diverse stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel to client sites for installation, commissioning, and support as required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including a performance-based bonus structure, comprehensive health insurance, and retirement savings contributions. Opportunities for professional development, specialized training courses, and career advancement within the company are provided. You will work with a team of skilled professionals on diverse and challenging projects in the industrial sector around Tembisa . The company culture values innovation, collaboration, and employee well‑being, offering a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.