Automation and Controls Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Health benefits

Professional development budget

Remote work flexibility

Diverse projects

Laptop provided

25 days annual leave

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automation and Controls Engineer for a fully remote role based out of Port Elizabeth. You will design, program, and troubleshoot PLCs (Siemens, Rockwell), configure SCADA/HMI (FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition), and integrate robotics across production lines.

You will collaborate with clients and field technicians remotely, ensure safety standards, and stay updated on automation trends. Travel is occasional for on-site commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years hands-on experience in industrial automation and controls.
• Proficiency in Siemens S7 and Rockwell RSLogix/Studio 5000.
• Strong SCADA/HMI experience: FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition.
• Knowledge of industrial networking and protocols.
• Experience with robotics programming (KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) is a plus.
• Understanding of ISO 13849 and IEC 61508 safety standards.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills for remote work.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems for various industrial applications.
• Develop and configure SCADA and HMI systems for process monitoring and control.
• Implement and maintain industrial networks and communication protocols.
• Integrate robotic systems and automation hardware into production lines.
• Develop functional design specifications and sequence of operations.
• Perform system commissioning, testing, and validation remotely or on-site.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for automation systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA/HMI

Robotics integration

Industrial networking

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics background

Tools

Siemens S7

Rockwell RSLogix/Studio 5000

FactoryTalk View

WinCC

Ignition

KUKA

ABB

Fanuc

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading firm in advanced manufacturing solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Automation and Controls Engineer to join their dynamic, fully remote team. This role offers a unique opportunity to design, develop, and implement sophisticated control systems for industrial automation projects, all while working from your home base. You will be instrumental in enhancing efficiency, precision, and safety in manufacturing processes through innovative automation solutions. This position requires a deep understanding of PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and industrial communication protocols. As a remote team member, you will collaborate closely with clients, project managers, and field technicians to deliver state-of-the‑art automation systems. If you are passionate about industrial automation and seeking a challenging, rewarding career in a flexible remote setting, this opportunity based out of **Port Elizabeth** (operating remotely) is ideal for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Rockwell) for various industrial applications.
• Develop and configure SCADA and HMI systems for effective process monitoring and control.
• Implement and maintain industrial networks and communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Integrate robotic systems and other automation hardware into existing and new production lines.
• Develop functional design specifications and sequence of operations.
• Perform system commissioning, testing, and validation both remotely and potentially on‑site as required.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for automation systems.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to define automation requirements and solutions.
• Ensure all automation designs comply with relevant industry standards and safety regulations.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and propose innovative solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation and controls engineering.
• Proficiency in programming and configuring major PLC platforms (Siemens S7, Rockwell RSLogix/Studio 5000).
• Strong experience with SCADA and HMI software (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition).
• Knowledge of industrial networking and communication protocols.
• Experience with robotic programming (e.g., KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) is a significant advantage.
• Understanding of safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849, IEC 61508).
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple project tasks effectively.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for on‑site commissioning or client meetings.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance‑based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Significant budget for professional development, including certifications and training.
• Flexible remote work schedule.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and innovative automation projects.
• Company‑provided high‑performance laptop and essential software.
• 25 days of paid annual leave.
• Retirement savings plan.