Automation and Control Systems Specialist

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Site allowances

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Automation and Control Systems Specialist for its Upington operations in the Northern Cape. You will design, implement, maintain and optimize industrial automation across mining processes, ensuring safe, reliable operation and continuous improvement.

The role requires hands-on troubleshooting, strong PLC/SCADA expertise, and collaboration with operations and maintenance teams to support daily production and safety compliance in a heavy industrial setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) and developing SCADA systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols and networking.
• Experience with instrumentation and control hardware selection.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and program PLC and SCADA systems for process control and plant automation.
• Implement and maintain industrial networks and communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues in real-time to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain system documentation, including P&IDs, control narratives, and programming logic.
• Participate in HAZOP studies and ensure control systems meet safety requirements.
• Specify and select instrumentation and control hardware.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to perform scheduled maintenance and upgrades.
• Support the integration of new automation technologies and systems.
• Provide technical training and support to operators and maintenance personnel.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and safety regulations.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

Industrial networking

Process control

Motion control

Education

Electrical/Mechatronics degree

Tools

Siemens

Rockwell

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and resources sector, is seeking an Automation and Control Systems Specialist to join their operational team based in Upington, Northern Cape . This role is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of industrial automation and control systems across their mining operations. You will ensure the efficient, reliable, and safe operation of plant machinery and processes through advanced automation technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in PLC/SCADA systems, industrial networking, and process control within a heavy industrial environment. This is an on-site position requiring a practical, hands-on approach to problem-solving and system integration. You will work closely with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to support daily production needs and drive continuous improvement initiatives. We are looking for a dedicated professional who can contribute to maximizing operational efficiency and safety in the challenging environment of Upington, Northern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and program PLC and SCADA systems for process control and plant automation.
• Implement and maintain industrial networks and communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues in real-time to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain system documentation, including P&IDs, control narratives, and programming logic.
• Participate in HAZOP studies and ensure control systems meet safety requirements.
• Specify and select instrumentation and control hardware.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to perform scheduled maintenance and upgrades.
• Support the integration of new automation technologies and systems.
• Provide technical training and support to operators and maintenance personnel.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and safety regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) and developing SCADA systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols and networking.
• Experience with instrumentation and control hardware selection.
• Knowledge of mining or heavy industrial processes is highly advantageous.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Willingness to work on-site in Upington, Northern Cape and adhere to site-specific safety requirements.
• Experience with motion control and variable speed drives is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, site allowances, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• This role provides an excellent opportunity to work on significant projects within the mining sector in the Upington, Northern Cape region.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the company are available.
• Join a robust team dedicated to operational excellence in a challenging and rewarding environment.