Automation Controls Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng is seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to join our on-site manufacturing facility. You will design, implement, troubleshoot, and support PLC, HMI, robotics, and SCADA systems to enhance efficiency and safety.

With a strong focus on continuous improvement, you will collaborate with engineers and maintenance teams to optimize control strategies, reduce downtime, and ensure quality.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (Siemens S7, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software (WinCC, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Experience with motion control and robotics integration.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems for manufacturing equipment.
• Develop and maintain HMI screens and interfaces for operator control and monitoring.
• Implement and support SCADA systems for data acquisition and plant-wide visualization.
• Work with robotic systems, including programming and integration.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers on new equipment installations and upgrades.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics integration

Troubleshooting

Communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens S7

Rockwell Studio 5000

WinCC

Wonderware

Ignition

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Modbus

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Automation Controls Engineer to join their dynamic manufacturing facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This role is integral to maintaining and improving the efficiency, reliability, and safety of our automated production lines. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, troubleshooting, and support of control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and SCADA systems. This is an on-site position requiring a hands-on approach and the ability to work effectively within a plant environment. The successful candidate will possess strong technical expertise in industrial automation, a problem-solving mindset, and a commitment to continuous improvement. You will play a critical role in ensuring seamless operations and driving innovation in automation technologies within the facility, contributing directly to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) for manufacturing equipment.
• Develop and maintain HMI screens and interfaces for operator control and monitoring.
• Implement and support SCADA systems for data acquisition and plant-wide visualization.
• Work with robotic systems, including programming and integration.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers on new equipment installations and upgrades.
• Perform root cause analysis of control system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including control narratives, network diagrams, and user manuals.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards (e.g., LOTO) and industry best practices.
• Optimize control strategies to improve machine performance, reduce downtime, and enhance product quality.
• Provide technical support to maintenance and operations teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software packages (e.g., WinCC, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Experience with motion control and robotics integration.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Flexibility to work occasional overtime or non-standard hours as required.
• Understanding of industrial safety standards is essential.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, and a provident fund. You will be part of a stable and reputable company with a strong focus on employee development and career progression. Opportunities for further training and skill enhancement in the latest automation technologies are provided. Work within a modern manufacturing facility equipped with advanced technologies. We offer a supportive team environment and opportunities to contribute to significant operational improvements. Performance-based incentives and annual bonuses are also part of our compensation structure.