Automation and Control Systems Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automation and Control Systems Engineer for our client in Nelspruit. You will design, implement, and maintain PLC and HMI systems to optimize production efficiency and product quality in a food and beverage processing environment.

The role requires 5+ years in industrial automation, a relevant bachelor's degree, and hands-on experience with PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics is required.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficient in PLC/ HMI programming and control systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC and HMI systems for automated production machinery.
• Develop and maintain control system architecture and software documentation.
• Integrate new automation technologies and equipment into existing production lines.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control system issues to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, production staff, and project managers to define automation requirements.
• Perform root cause analysis for system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality requirements.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology, including robotics, vision systems, and IIoT.
• Optimize existing automation processes for improved efficiency, reliability, and throughput.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robotics experience

Industrial networking

Electrical schematics

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics degree

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

P&ID interpretation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the food and beverage processing industry, is seeking an experienced Automation and Control Systems Engineer to join their dynamic engineering team in **Nelspruit**. This role is essential for designing, implementing, and maintaining the automated systems that drive production efficiency and product quality. You will work with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), robotics, and other industrial control technologies to optimize manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of electrical and mechanical automation principles, excellent programming skills, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Join our client's operations in **Nelspruit** and play a key part in modernizing their production facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC and HMI systems for automated production machinery.
• Develop and maintain control system architecture and software documentation.
• Integrate new automation technologies and equipment into existing production lines.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control system issues to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, production staff, and project managers to define automation requirements.
• Perform root cause analysis for system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality requirements.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology, including robotics, vision systems, and IIoT.
• Optimize existing automation processes for improved efficiency, reliability, and throughput.

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.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix) and developing HMIs (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP).
• Experience with industrial robots (e.g., KUKA, ABB) is a significant advantage.
• Knowledge of servo motor control and VFDs.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and PFDs.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to work flexible hours or occasional shifts during critical project phases or plant shutdowns.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, ample opportunities for professional development and training, and a collaborative work environment. Become a vital part of our manufacturing team in Nelspruit .