Automation Control Systems Technician

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24, based in Vereeniging, seeks an Automation Control Systems Technician to maintain and optimize industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA, across production facilities.

The role is hybrid, combining on-site support with potential off-site analysis, requires at least four years of hands-on automation experience, and offers opportunities for professional development, a supportive team, and a strong commitment to safety.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years hands-on experience with industrial automation.
• Experience with PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMIs, SCADA.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, control system diagrams, and manuals.
• Willingness to work shifts and be available for emergencies.
• Residence or commutable to the Vereeniging area.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, program, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and software issues.
• Perform routine maintenance on control systems and equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic diagrams, and P&ID drawings.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to implement system upgrades.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety regulations and industry standards.
• Develop and maintain documentation for automation systems, including programming logic, wiring diagrams, and operational procedures.
• Respond to control system failures and provide timely resolution to minimize production downtime.
• Stay current with new automation technologies and best practices.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLCs (Siemens/AB)

HMIs

SCADA

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Education

National Diploma or equivalent in Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics

Tools

Electrical schematics reading

P&ID diagrams

Robotics programming

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturing firm, is seeking an experienced Automation Control Systems Technician to join their team based in Vereeniging. This role is crucial for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and SCADA systems. You will play a key part in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of our production facilities by proactively identifying and resolving technical issues. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial automation and a keen eye for detail, contributing to the smooth running of operations in the Gauteng province. This hybrid role offers a blend of on-site operational support and potential for off-site technical analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, program, and maintain Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and software issues within automated production lines.
• Perform routine maintenance on control systems and equipment to prevent failures and ensure optimal performance.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic diagrams, and P&ID drawings.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to implement system upgrades and modifications.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety regulations and industry standards.
• Develop and maintain documentation for automation systems, including programming logic, wiring diagrams, and operational procedures.
• Respond to control system failures and provide timely resolution to minimize production downtime.
• Stay current with new automation technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• National Diploma or equivalent qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience with industrial automation systems, PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMIs, and SCADA.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics, control system diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for diagnosing issues in complex automated systems.
• Experience with robotics programming and integration is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Good communication skills for interacting with cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to work shifts and be available for emergency call-outs as needed.
• A strong commitment to safety protocols and quality workmanship.
• Must reside within or be able to commute to the Vereeniging area for on-site duties.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and skills.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility between office/on-site and remote work.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced automation technologies.
• Access to company benefits including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• Work with a stable company in a vital industrial sector.
• Contribute to operational excellence in the Gauteng region.