Automation & Control Systems Engineer

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automation & Control Systems Engineer to join a leader in advanced manufacturing in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will design, implement, and maintain PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for automated production lines and industrial processes.

The role blends hands-on client work with office-based design and development, offering opportunities to work with robotics, networking, and safety-compliant automation across Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 6+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficient in major PLC platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software (Wonderware, Ignition, FactoryTalk View).

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for industrial applications.
• Develop and maintain automation control strategies and logic.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation and control system issues in production.
• Integrate new technologies and equipment into existing automation infrastructure.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, and clients to define system requirements and specifications.
• Develop and execute test plans for control systems.
• Create and maintain detailed system documentation, including electrical schematics, network diagrams, and program backups.
• Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance teams.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation and control technologies.
• Ensure all implemented solutions comply with safety standards and best practices in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Skills

PL C programming

SCADA & HMI

Robotics integration

Troubleshooting

Teamwork & communication

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

Wonderware

Ignition

FactoryTalk View

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing solutions, is seeking a talented Automation & Control Systems Engineer to join their innovative team in Pretoria, Gauteng. This role is integral to the design, implementation, and maintenance of sophisticated control systems for automated production lines and industrial processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and HMI development. You will be responsible for optimizing system performance, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring the reliability of our clients' automation infrastructure. This position offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities to work on cutting-edge technology and collaborate with a team of highly skilled professionals. The hybrid work arrangement balances the need for hands-on work at client sites and office-based design and development, providing a flexible yet productive work setting. We are committed to technological advancement and seek individuals who share this passion.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for various industrial applications.
• Develop and maintain automation control strategies and logic.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation and control system issues in production environments.
• Integrate new technologies and equipment into existing automation infrastructure.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, and clients to define system requirements and specifications.
• Develop and execute test plans for control systems.
• Create and maintain detailed system documentation, including electrical schematics, network diagrams, and program backups.
• Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance teams.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation and control technologies.
• Ensure all implemented solutions comply with safety standards and best practices in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 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 SCADA and HMI software (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, FactoryTalk View).
• Knowledge of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Familiarity with robotics programming and integration is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to travel to client sites as needed within Gauteng and surrounding areas.
• A proactive approach to identifying and implementing system improvements.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package reflecting expertise.
• Performance-driven incentives.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Professional development opportunities and training.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging automation projects.
• Generous leave policy.
• A collaborative and innovative work culture.