Automation Engineer (Production Systems)

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 780,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Ongoing training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automation Engineer for our Durban facility to design, implement, and optimize automated systems that boost throughput, safety, and quality. You will program PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and robots while collaborating with engineering and production teams.

The role requires a strong technical aptitude, 5+ years in industrial automation, and a passion for innovative manufacturing technologies.

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in industrial automation within manufacturing.
• Proficient in PLC programming and HMI/SCADA software.
• Experience with robotics and vision systems is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement automation solutions for production lines.
• Program, troubleshoot and maintain PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and robots.
• Develop test plans to verify reliability and performance.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams on requirements.
• Identify process improvements and implement automation strategies.
• Create design specs, manuals, and operating procedures.
• Provide training and support to maintenance staff.
• Stay updated on new automation technologies.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
• Manage vendor relationships for third-party components.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotic programming

Vision systems

Electrical diagrams

CAD software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens

Allen-Bradley

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the industrial manufacturing sector, is seeking an innovative and results-driven Automation Engineer to join their advanced production facility in Durban. This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems that enhance production efficiency, safety, and quality. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of industrial automation technologies, PLC programming, robotics, and process control systems. You will work collaboratively with engineering and production teams to integrate cutting-off automation solutions into our Durban operations, driving significant improvements in throughput and operational reliability. This is a hands-on role requiring a strong technical aptitude and a passion for innovation within the manufacturing landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for new and existing production lines.
• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and robotic systems.
• Develop and execute test plans to ensure the reliability and performance of automated systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and specifications.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement automation strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Develop technical documentation, including design specifications, programming manuals, and operating procedures.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and production personnel on automated systems.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and industry trends.
• Ensure all automation projects comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Manage vendor relationships and oversee the integration of third-party automation components.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering, specifically within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA software.
• Experience with robotic programming (e.g., KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) and vision systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and schematics.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience with CAD software for designing automation layouts is a plus.
• Willingness to work onsite in Durban and potentially travel occasionally.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including potential performance bonuses, along with a comprehensive benefits plan covering medical aid, a provident fund, and life insurance.
• Employees will have access to ongoing training and development opportunities, fostering career growth within a technologically advanced organization.
• This role provides the chance to work on challenging and innovative projects within the vibrant industrial hub of Durban, contributing directly to operational excellence.
• Join a company that invests in its people and cutting-edge technology.