Automation Controls Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Retirement plan

Career growth

Challenging projects

Mahikeng location

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, South Africa, seeks an Automation Controls Engineer to design, implement, and support advanced control systems for complex industrial processes. You will work on PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and motion control to boost production efficiency and safety across our client's manufacturing facilities.

The ideal candidate has a strong electrical background, at least five years in automation, and a track record of delivering robust control solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of progressing automation controls engineering experience.
• Proficient with PLC platforms (Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley) and HMI software.
• Strong analytical, communication, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC-based control systems for industrial applications.
• Develop HMI and SCADA screens for process visualization and control.
• Configure VFDs and servo drives for precise motion control.
• Troubleshoot complex automation systems and implement solutions.
• Create and maintain control system documentation and manuals.
• Collaborate with mechanical, project, and operations teams.
• Ensure designs meet safety standards and company policies.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance staff.
• Stay current with automation trends and best practices.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Motion control

Electrical engineering

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

Siemens S7

ControlLogix/CompactLogix

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in advanced manufacturing and process automation, is seeking an accomplished Automation Controls Engineer to join their innovative engineering department in Mahikeng, North West . This dynamic role involves the design, development, implementation, and support of automated control systems for complex industrial processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in electrical engineering, PLC programming, HMI development, and motion control, with a proven ability to deliver robust and efficient automation solutions. You will be instrumental in enhancing production efficiency, improving system reliability, and ensuring operational safety through state-of-the-art control system design. This is an exceptional opportunity for an engineer passionate about automation technology and eager to contribute to cutting-edge projects. We are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented individual with excellent problem-solving skills and a commitment to innovation. Your expertise will be crucial in supporting our client's advanced manufacturing facilities in the Mahikeng area, driving operational excellence and competitiveness. Join a team that is shaping the future of industrial automation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC-based control systems for various industrial applications.
• Develop HMI (Human-Machine Interface) screens and SCADA systems for effective process visualization and control.
• Configure and integrate variable frequency drives (VFDs) and servo systems for precise motion control.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex automation systems, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Develop and maintain control system documentation, including electrical drawings, logic narratives, and user manuals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, project managers, and operations personnel.
• Ensure all automation designs and implementations adhere to industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.
• Participate in the conceptualization and design phases of new automation projects.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations staff.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in automation and control systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in automation controls engineering.
• Proficient in programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix) and HMI software (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Solid understanding of industrial networks (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP) and communication protocols.
• Experience with VFDs, servo drives, and motion control applications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a demanding industrial environment in Mahikeng .
• Valid driver's license.
• Experience with robotics programming is a plus.

Benefits

• highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and an excellent retirement plan.
• significant opportunities for professional growth, advanced training, and career advancement within a leading automation solutions provider.
• Employees benefit from working on challenging and diverse projects utilizing the latest technologies.
• The Mahikeng location provides a dynamic industrial setting.
• Our client is committed to fostering an innovative and collaborative work environment, offering exceptional job security and rewarding career opportunities.
• You will be an integral part of a team driving industrial innovation.