Automation Electrical Engineer - Industrial Control Systems

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid plan

Provident fund

Performance-based incentives

Specialized training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Automation Electrical Engineer to lead design, implementation and maintenance of industrial control systems in Durban. You will design control panels, program PLCs, develop HMIs/SCADA, configure VFDs and support electrical installations across manufacturing facilities.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree, 6+ years in automation, strong electrical skills and a collaborative approach with mechanical engineers. Hybrid work applies in Durban with occasional site visits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text).
• Experience with major HMI/SCADA software packages.
• Solid understanding of industrial electrical systems, motor control, and power distribution.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs.
• Problem-solving skills and a methodical approach to troubleshooting.
• Willingness to work in a Hybrid model in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, with occasional site visits.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical control panels and schematics for automated machinery and processes.
• Program and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) from various manufacturers (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron).
• Develop and configure Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.
• Configure and commission Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and servo systems for motor control.
• Perform electrical system troubleshooting and provide technical support to production and maintenance teams.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers and project managers to integrate automation solutions into new and existing equipment.
• Ensure all electrical installations and systems comply with safety regulations, including OHS Act and relevant electrical standards.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology and recommend improvements.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

VFD configuration

Electrical systems understanding

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Omron PLC

HMI/SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the manufacturing and industrial automation sector, is seeking an adept Automation Electrical Engineer to join their expanding operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial for the design, implementation, and maintenance of sophisticated industrial control systems (ICS) and automation solutions. You will be instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency, reducing downtime, and ensuring the seamless integration of new technologies within our client's production facilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in PLC programming, HMI development, VFD configuration, and a thorough understanding of electrical systems within an industrial context. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the modernization of industrial processes in a key economic hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical control panels and schematics for automated machinery and processes.


• Program and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) from various manufacturers (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron).


• Develop and configure Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.


• Configure and commission Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and servo systems for motor control.


• Perform electrical system troubleshooting and provide technical support to production and maintenance teams.


• Collaborate with mechanical engineers and project managers to integrate automation solutions into new and existing equipment.


• Ensure all electrical installations and systems comply with safety regulations, including OHS Act and relevant electrical standards.


• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology and recommend improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.


• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.


• Proficiency in PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text).


• Experience with major HMI/SCADA software packages.


• Solid understanding of industrial electrical systems, motor control, and power distribution.


• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).


• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs.


• Problem‑solving skills and a methodical approach to troubleshooting.


• Willingness to work in a **Hybrid** model in **Durban, KwaZulu‑Natal**, with occasional site visits.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including a comprehensive medical aid plan, provident fund, and potential for performance-based incentives. Opportunities for specialized training in cutting-edge automation technologies will be provided. This role offers a chance to work with advanced industrial equipment and contribute to significant process improvements. Being based in the industrial heart of Durban , you'll be part of a dynamic manufacturing environment with ample scope for professional growth and development within the KwaZulu‑Natal region.