Automation Engineer - Food & Beverage Production

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Training and certifications

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks an experienced Automation Engineer to design, implement, and maintain automated systems across production lines. You will work on PLC programming, HMI development, and robot integration to optimize manufacturing processes.

The role combines on-site execution with remote strategic planning, requiring strong teamwork and problem-solving in a dynamic Food & Beverage environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics or related field.
• 4+ years in industrial automation focusing on PLC programming and HMI.
• Hands-on experience with robotic systems is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for production lines.
• Troubleshoot automation systems to minimize downtime and improve reliability.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality assurance to define automation requirements.
• Conduct feasibility studies and propose automation projects.
• Develop and maintain P&IDs, electrical schematics, and user manuals.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of new equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations in Cape Town.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robotics (FANUC/KUKA)

Control system design

Networking

Troubleshooting

Food & Beverage knowledge

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics or related field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI software

Robotic systems (FANUC/KUKA)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the Food & Beverage industry, is actively seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to enhance their operations in Cape Town, Western Cape . This exciting role focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems to optimize production processes, improve efficiency, and ensure the highest quality standards. The successful candidate will be instrumental in leveraging technology to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge. This position offers a unique blend of on-site operational engagement and remote strategic planning, reflecting a modern approach to engineering challenges within the dynamic Manufacturing & Production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for production lines, including PLC programming, HMI development, and robotic integration.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation system issues, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous operation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, production, and quality assurance, to define automation requirements and project scope.
• Conduct feasibility studies and provide technical recommendations for new automation projects.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, and user manuals.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and propose innovative solutions.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of new automated equipment.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with industry standards and safety regulations in Cape Town .

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in industrial automation, with a strong focus on PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Hands-on experience with robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA) is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in control system design, network configuration, and troubleshooting.
• Experience in the Food & Beverage industry is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with Manufacturing & Production best practices.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive remuneration package, reflecting the candidate's expertise and contribution. Benefits include a comprehensive health insurance plan, retirement savings contributions, and ample opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and certifications. Our client also provides a dynamic and innovative work environment, encouraging collaboration and the pursuit of technological advancements. Employees will have the chance to work on challenging projects that shape the future of food production in Western Cape .