Automation Engineer

Hire Resolve; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Career development opportunities

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Johannesburg is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to lead the design of automation systems, focusing on pneumatic systems. The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, alongside substantial experience in system design and PLC programming. This role rewards innovative problem solvers who thrive in collaborative environments, offering a competitive salary based on experience and the opportunity to play a key role in cutting-edge projects.

Qualifications

• Experience in designing automation systems with a focus on pneumatic systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming and HMI development.
• Familiar with safety standards and regulations for automation systems.
• Familiarity with Modbus/Profibus or similar industrial protocols.
• Hands-on pneumatic components and circuit design knowledge.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulations for automation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automation systems.
• Optimize system performance, reliability, and efficiency.
• Conduct rigorous testing and validation of automation systems.
• Provide training and technical support to operators.
• Conduct testing and validation for functionality, accuracy, and safety.
• Identify and fix technical issues with corrective actions.
• Create system specs, drawings, test plans and procedures.
• Provide progress updates to stakeholders and document milestones.
• Deliver training and technical support to operators and maintenance staff.
• Develop training materials and hands-on workshops.
• Drive continuous improvement for performance and cost-effectiveness.

Skills

Pneumatic systems design

PLC programming

HMI development

Industrial communication protocols

Problem-solving skills

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Pneumatic components (actuators, valves, compressors)

Job description

We are currently seeking a skilled and experienced Automation Engineer to join our client's team in Johannesburg. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in designing automation systems, with a primary focus on pneumatic systems. Experience in this field is crucial for the successful execution of this role.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automation systems, with a specialization in pneumatic systems, from concept to implementation.
• Utilize engineering principles and innovative techniques to optimize system performance, reliability, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate automation systems into existing manufacturing processes and equipment.
• Ensure seamless communication and interoperability between automation components and control systems.
• Conduct rigorous testing and validation of automation systems to verify functionality, accuracy, and safety.
• Identify and troubleshoot any technical issues or discrepancies, implementing corrective measures as needed.
• Generate comprehensive documentation, including system specifications, design drawings, test plans, and operating procedures.
• Provide regular progress updates and status reports to stakeholders, highlighting key milestones, challenges, and achievements.
• Provide training and technical support to operators and maintenance personnel on the proper operation and maintenance of automation systems.
• Develop training materials and conduct hands‑on workshops to enhance end‑user proficiency and confidence.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the performance, reliability, and cost‑effectiveness of automation systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Proven experience in designing automation systems, with a strong emphasis on pneumatic systems.
• Demonstrated proficiency in PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus).
• Hands‑on experience with pneumatic components, such as actuators, valves, and compressors, as well as pneumatic circuit design and optimization.
• Familiarity with safety standards and regulations applicable to automation systems, ensuring compliance with industry guidelines and protocols.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
• Proactive and self‑motivated, with a passion for innovation and a commitment to delivering high‑quality solutions.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing project requirements and deadlines, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently.

Contact Hire Resolve for your next career‑changing move.

Benefits and How to Apply

• Our client is offering a highly competitive salary for this role based on experience.
• Apply for this role today, contact Alyssa Marson, Elma Pelser, Henker Harmse, Wernardt Snyman, Chandre Cordier or Tameaka Futcher at Hire Resolve or on LinkedIn.
• You can also visit the Hire Resolve website hireresolve.us or email us your CV [e-mail].

We will contact you telephonically in 3 days should you be suitable for this vacancy. If you are not suitable, we will put your CV on file and contact you regarding any future vacancies that arise.