Automation Engineer - Industrial Control Systems

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Hybrid work

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer in Mahikeng, North West. You will design, program, and implement PLC and SCADA solutions for diverse manufacturing projects, interfacing with MES/ERP and providing remote or on-site support.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years of automation experience, strong PLC/HMI skills, and solid communication abilities to work with clients and staff across regions. Hybrid work options available near Mahikeng.

Qualifications

• BEng/BSc in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Computer Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming multiple PLC platforms (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software packages (Ignition, Wonderware, WinCC).
• Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols (Profibus, Ethernet/IP).

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and configure PLC systems for various industrial applications.
• Develop and implement HMI/SCADA designs with screen development and data logging.
• Create and maintain system documentation (FDS, user manuals).
• Perform system testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting on-site or remotely.
• Collaborate with clients to define automation requirements and project scopes.
• Integrate automation systems with MES/ERP.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA/HMI

Industrial networking

Robotics

Problem solving

Client-facing

Travel ready

Education

BEng/BSc Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Eng

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

Ignition

Wonderware

WinCC

Profibus

Ethernet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading industrial automation solutions provider, is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to join their innovative team, serving clients across various sectors from their Mahikeng, North West regional hub. This role focuses on the design, development, programming, and implementation of industrial control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems, for manufacturing and process industries. You will work closely with clients to understand their automation needs, deliver tailored solutions, and provide ongoing technical support. The ideal candidate possesses strong programming skills, a deep understanding of control theory, and excellent problem-solving abilities. This role offers a dynamic mix of project-based work, occasional travel to client sites, and remote development, providing a stimulating career path in automation technology. The position supports clients primarily within the North West province, with a base in Mahikeng, North West.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and configure PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron) for various industrial applications.
• Develop and implement HMI/SCADA system designs, including screen development and data logging.
• Create and maintain system documentation, including functional design specifications and user manuals.
• Perform system testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting on-site or remotely.
• Collaborate with clients to define automation requirements and project scopes.
• Integrate automation systems with other plant systems (e.g., MES, ERP).
• Provide technical support and training to clients' operational and maintenance staff.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.
• Manage project timelines and resources effectively for assigned automation projects.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations related to industrial automation.

Requirements

• BEng/BSc in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Computer Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming multiple PLC platforms (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software packages (e.g., Ignition, Wonderware, WinCC).
• Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with robotics, VFDs, and servo systems is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a project team.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to client sites within the region.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses, medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth through advanced training, certifications, and exposure to diverse automation projects.
• A flexible hybrid work arrangement supports a healthy work-life balance.
• You will be part of a forward-thinking company at the cutting edge of industrial technology.
• This role based near Mahikeng, North West, provides an excellent platform for career development in the automation field.