Automation Engineer

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Attractive salary package

Comprehensive medical and retirement

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

State-of-the-art facility in Richards

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automation Engineer for our Richards Bay operations in KwaZulu-Natal. This role focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems to boost production efficiency, reliability, and safety.

You will lead PLC/HMI/SCADA projects, troubleshoot, and integrate robotics solutions to keep manufacturing processes at the industry forefront. The ideal candidate has a strong background in automation technologies, with 5+ years in industrial automation, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics.
• Minimum 5 years in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA.
• Experience with robotics programming and integration (FANUC, KUKA).
• Strong analytical and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automated control systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA.
• Troubleshoot and maintain existing automation equipment and processes.
• Identify opportunities for automation to improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to integrate new automated solutions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics, programming code, and operating manuals.
• Conduct performance testing and validation of automated systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Stay current with the latest automation technologies and industry best practices.
• Ensure all automation projects comply with safety regulations and company standards.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics programming

Electrical systems

Mechanical systems

Industrial networks

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

FANUC Robotics

KUKA Robotics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent industrial leader, is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join their expanding operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role involves designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems to enhance production efficiency, reliability, and safety. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in automation technologies, PLC programming, and robotics, coupled with a passion for innovation and problem-solving. You will be instrumental in driving the technological advancement of our client's manufacturing processes, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant projects and shape the future of automated manufacturing in a key industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automated control systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Troubleshoot and maintain existing automation equipment and processes.
• Identify opportunities for automation to improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to integrate new automated solutions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics, programming code, and operating manuals.
• Conduct performance testing and validation of automated systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Stay current with the latest automation technologies and industry best practices.
• Ensure all automation projects comply with safety regulations and company standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA systems.
• Experience with robotics programming and integration (e.g., FANUC, KUKA).
• Strong understanding of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of industrial networks and communication protocols.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to read and interpret complex electrical schematics and technical drawings.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience in the (Specify relevant industry, e.g., mining, chemical processing, pulp and paper) sector is advantageous.

Benefits

• attractive salary package
• comprehensive medical and retirement benefits
• performance-based bonuses
• This role provides excellent opportunities for professional development, including advanced training in cutting-edge automation technologies.
• Employees will work in a state-of-the-art facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , and be part of a highly skilled and supportive team.
• The position offers the chance to lead critical automation projects and contribute significantly to the operational excellence of a major industrial player.