Automation and Controls Engineer - Pretoria

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan with company‑m

Generous paid time off

Professional development and training

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria seeks an experienced Automation and Controls Engineer to design, develop, implement, and maintain automated systems across diverse industrial applications. The role emphasizes PLC/HMI/SCADA programming, control strategies, and hands-on troubleshooting in a hybrid setting.

The ideal candidate has a strong engineering background, proficiency in major PLC platforms, and experience with HMI/SCADA software, with a focus on reliable, efficient industrial operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software (FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition).
• Strong networking knowledge (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork, able to work with Pretoria team and clients.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Develop control strategies to optimize industrial processes.
• Troubleshoot automation issues remotely and on-site.
• Prepare technical specifications and feasibility studies.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, and clients.
• Maintain technical documentation (P&IDs, schematics, narratives).
• Provide training and technical support to plant personnel.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA development

Industrial networking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Travel readiness

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics/CS

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

FactoryTalk View

WinCC

Ignition

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in industrial automation solutions, is seeking an innovative and experienced Automation and Controls Engineer to join their team in **Pretoria**. This hybrid role offers the flexibility to work both remotely and from our **Pretoria** office, focusing on the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of automated systems for diverse industrial applications. You will play a crucial role in optimizing manufacturing processes, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring the reliability of complex control systems. The ideal candidate possesses a strong engineering background, proficiency in PLC programming, HMI development, and a passion for driving technological advancements in the field of industrial automation. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of industrial operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.
• Develop and implement control strategies to optimize industrial processes for improved efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control system issues, both remotely and on-site as needed.
• Conduct feasibility studies and prepare technical specifications for new automation projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, project managers, and clients, to ensure project success.
• Perform preventative maintenance and upgrades on existing automation systems.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in automation and control systems.
• Develop and maintain detailed technical documentation, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, and program narratives.
• Provide technical support and training to plant personnel and junior engineers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software development (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Experience with robotics integration and motion control systems is a plus.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration within the **Pretoria** team and with clients.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a hybrid work environment.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel occasionally for on‑site support.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development and training opportunities to enhance skills.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance between remote flexibility and office collaboration.