Automation Engineer

Network Finance; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Network Finance is seeking a hands-on automation specialist to design, develop, implement and maintain automated machinery across production facilities. You will drive improvements with manufacturing, R&D and external partners, improving efficiency and equipment reliability.

The role involves PLC programming, HMI design, E-Plan schematics and remote support for international locations, with local and international travel expected.

Qualifications

• BEng/BTech or relevant degree in mechatronics or electrical engineering.
• Experience with automation hardware, software, and systems integration.
• Proficient in PLC/HMI development and system commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Provide automation support to manufacturing operations and drive improvements.
• Design, develop, implement, and maintain automated machinery and control systems.
• Modify PLC programs and HMI interfaces; support installation, commissioning and maintenance.
• Develop electrical schematics using E-Plan and collaborate with R&D teams.
• Provide remote support to local and international facilities and manage supplier relationships.
• Lead continuous improvement projects focused on productivity, reliability and quality.

Skills

Automation engineering

PLC programming

HMI design

Beckhoff & Festo PLCs

Pneumatic control

Profinet

Modbus TCP

Ethernet/IP

E-Plan electrical design

Linux commands

Troubleshooting

Stakeholder management

Valid driver's license

Education

BEng in Mechatronic Engineering (Preferred)

BTech / Advanced Diploma in Mechatronics, Electronics, or Electrical Engineering (Light Current)

Job description

This exciting opportunity is suited to a hands-on automation specialist who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining automated machinery and control systems while driving continuous improvement initiatives across production operations. Working closely with manufacturing, R&D, and external automation partners, you will play a key role in improving process efficiencies, enhancing equipment reliability, and supporting the implementation of innovative automation technologies across multiple production facilities.

Education:

• BEng in Mechatronic Engineering (Preferred)
• BTech / Advanced Diploma in Mechatronics, Electronics, or Electrical Engineering (Light Current)

Job Experience & Skills Required:

• 5-8 years' experience within an automation engineering environment.
• Minimum 3-4 years' experience in automated machinery design and development.
• Strong PLC programming experience.
• HMI design and configuration experience.
• Experience with Beckhoff and Festo PLCs advantageous.
• Knowledge of pneumatic control systems and programming.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols including:
  • Profinet
  • Modbus TCP
  • Ethernet/IP
• Exposure to Festo Vision Systems advantageous.
• Strong E-Plan electrical design experience.
• Working knowledge of Linux commands and SSH.
• Excellent fault-finding and troubleshooting abilities.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Valid driver's licence and own transport.
• Willingness to travel locally and internationally.

Duties:

• Provide automation support to manufacturing operations.
• Design, develop, and improve automated machinery and equipment.
• Modify and optimise PLC programs and HMI interfaces.
• Support installation, commissioning, maintenance, and calibration activities.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics using E-Plan.
• Provide remote support to local and international manufacturing facilities.
• Collaborate with R&D teams on new product development initiatives.
• Manage relationships with automation suppliers and integration partners.
• Drive continuous improvement projects focused on productivity, reliability, and quality.
• Develop engineering standards, procedures, and automation documentation.
• Ensure compliance with ISO quality requirements.
• Assist with troubleshooting and resolving complex automation-related production issues.