Automation Engineer - Industrial Control Systems (Hybrid)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health and retirement benefits

Training programs

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria seeks an experienced Automation Engineer to design, develop, implement and maintain sophisticated industrial control systems for diverse manufacturing clients.

You will program PLC/SCADA/HMI and DCS solutions, develop automation strategies to cut costs and improve quality, and troubleshoot complex issues to minimize downtime. The role blends on-site work with remote collaboration and ongoing professional training.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or Computer Science or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software packages (Ignition, WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Knowledge of industrial networks (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Robotic programming experience (Fanuc, KUKA, ABB) is a significant advantage.
• Strong understanding of control system architecture, instrumentation, and process control principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and specifications.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with client-facing experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, SCADA, HMI, and DCS systems for industrial applications.
• Develop and implement automation strategies to improve processes and product quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation hardware and software issues to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams to define project requirements and scope.
• Create detailed technical documentation including designs, wiring diagrams, and manuals.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and industry standards.
• Perform root cause analysis for automation failures and implement preventive measures.
• Conduct FAT and SAT for automation systems.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and staff on automation systems.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA/HMI

Industrial networks

Robotics programming

Analytical thinking

Project collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Tools

Ignition

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

Profinet

Job description

Placements24 in Pretoria seeks an experienced Automation Engineer to design, develop, implement and maintain sophisticated industrial control systems for diverse manufacturing clients.

You will program PLC/SCADA/HMI and DCS solutions, develop automation strategies to cut costs and improve quality, and troubleshoot complex issues to minimize downtime. The role blends on-site work with remote collaboration and ongoing professional training.