Automation Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking an Automation Engineer to join a hybrid team focused on advancing manufacturing automation. You will design, implement, and maintain automated systems, integrating PLCs, HMIs, robots, and sensors while troubleshooting to minimize downtime and improve production efficiency.

The role requires 4+ years in automation engineering, strong control-system knowledge, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement and safety

Qualifications

• Must-have degree in a relevant field and 4+ years in automation engineering.
• Proficient PLC, HMI, and SCADA skills with robot and vision experience.
• Strong problem-solving and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automated systems.
• Integrate PLCs, HMIs, robots, and sensors.
• Troubleshoot machinery to minimize downtime.
• Maintain automation software, P&IDs and docs.
• Collaborate with engineering and production for improvements.
• Ensure safety, quality, and performance standards.
• Stay updated on new automation tech and practices.
• Conduct feasibility studies and recommend solutions.
• Provide technical support and training to staff.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Troubleshooting

Communication

Teamwork

Reading schematics

Education

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

Tools

PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley)

HMI development

SCADA systems

Industrial robots (FANUC, KUKA)

Vision systems

Electrical design

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing , is seeking a skilled and forward-thinking Automation Engineer to join their innovative team in Sandton, Gauteng . This role is integral to enhancing production efficiency and consistency through the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated systems and processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in automation technologies, programming, and control systems, coupled with excellent problem-solving skills. This hybrid role allows for a balance between hands-on work on the factory floor and remote system design and analysis, contributing to the technological advancement of our client's operations in the bustling economic hub of Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automated systems and control solutions.
• Integrate various automation components, including PLCs, HMIs, robots, and sensors.
• Troubleshoot and repair automated machinery and control systems to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain automation software, documentation, and P&IDs.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to identify opportunities for automation and process improvement.
• Ensure that all automation projects meet safety, quality, and performance requirements.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and industry best practices.
• Conduct feasibility studies and recommend appropriate automation solutions.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to manufacturing automation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in automation engineering within a manufacturing or industrial setting .
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI development, and SCADA systems.
• Experience with industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, KUKA) and vision systems.
• Strong understanding of control system architecture, networking, and electrical design.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret complex electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience with machine vision and AI in manufacturing is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to commute to Sandton, Gauteng .

Benefits

• Annual salary of R .
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in automation technologies.
• Work with cutting-edge technology in a dynamic environment in Gauteng .
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.