Automation Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing Systems

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonus

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Automation Engineer in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, to design, implement, and maintain automated systems across manufacturing environments. You will work with engineering and production teams to identify opportunities and oversee integration of new technologies.

The role emphasizes robotics, PLC control, HMI development, and industrial networks, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and quality improvements. A growth‑driven, hybrid work setting is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechatronics Engineering or related field.
• 4–6 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC-based control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Develop and implement robotic automation solutions, including robot programming and cell design.
• Create and build HMI applications for process monitoring and control.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with automated systems (hardware and software).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and project scopes.
• Perform system integration, testing, and validation for operational readiness.
• Produce and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics and programming code.
• Stay updated on trends in industrial automation and control systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations teams.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics

HMI development

Electrical schematics

Industrial networks

Vision systems

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI software

FANUC robotics

KUKA robotics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in implementing cutting‑edge automation solutions for advanced manufacturing , is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer. This hybrid role, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , will focus on the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated systems that enhance efficiency, quality, and safety in production environments. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of robotics, PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial control systems. You will work closely with engineering and production teams to identify automation opportunities, develop project specifications, and oversee the integration of new technologies. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to be at the forefront of manufacturing innovation, contributing to the digital transformation of our client's operations. Join a forward-thinking company committed to technological advancement and employee development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC‑based control systems for various manufacturing processes.
• Develop and implement robotic automation solutions, including robot programming and cell design.
• Design and build Human‑Machine Interface (HMI) applications for process monitoring and control.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with automated systems, including hardware and software components.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to define automation requirements and develop project scopes.
• Perform system integration, testing, and validation to ensure operational readiness.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics, programming code, and user manuals.
• Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in industrial automation and control systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 4-6 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC brands (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) and HMI software.
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., FANUC, KUKA) and vision systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, industrial networks, and control system architecture.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience with SCADA systems and data acquisition is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a performance‑based bonus structure.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training courses and certifications in automation technologies, are provided.
• The company fosters an innovative and collaborative work environment.
• This hybrid role offers flexibility, and employees receive paid time off and other company‑mandated benefits.