Automation Engineer - Production Systems

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual bonuses

Training & development

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto, Gauteng is seeking an Automation Engineer to design, implement, and maintain automated systems across production lines. You will work to improve efficiency, reliability, and product quality while collaborating with engineering and operations teams to deliver scalable automation solutions.

The role requires a degree in a relevant engineering field, PLC/HMI programming, robotics experience, and familiarity with SCADA; the company offers hybrid work, competitive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Proven experience designing and maintaining industrial automation systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Experience with robotic programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of sensor tech, motion control, and industrial networks.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in manufacturing/production is desirable.
• Good communication for cross-functional collaboration.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and data acquisition.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated control systems for production equipment.
• Troubleshoot automation hardware and software issues.
• Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and robots.
• Collaborate with engineering and production to identify automation opportunities.
• Create and maintain technical documentation (schematics, manuals, code).
• Perform feasibility studies and advise on new automation tech.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of new automation equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
• Monitor system performance and implement upgrades.
• Provide training and technical support to staff in Soweto plant.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robotics integration

Sensor technology

Motion control

Read blueprints/schematics

Analytical skills

Manufacturing domain

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the manufacturing and production industry , is actively seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to enhance their production systems in Soweto, Gauteng . This role is crucial for driving efficiency, reliability, and innovation in our client's manufacturing operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated solutions that improve production output and product quality. This is an exceptional chance to join a forward-thinking company that values technological advancement and offers a platform for significant professional growth. We are looking for an individual with a deep understanding of automation technologies and a passion for optimizing complex production environments in the heart of Gauteng 's industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated control systems for production machinery and processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with existing automation hardware and software.
• Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and robotic systems.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to identify areas for automation and efficiency improvements.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including schematics, manuals, and programming code.
• Conduct feasibility studies and provide recommendations for new automation technologies.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of new automated equipment.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Monitor system performance and implement upgrades or modifications as needed to enhance efficiency.
• Provide training and technical support to production staff on automated systems in the Soweto plant.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Proven experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining industrial automation systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Experience with robotic programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of sensor technology, motion control, and industrial networks.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in the manufacturing and production sector is highly desirable.
• Good communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and data acquisition.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Our client provides excellent benefits, including a generous medical aid scheme, a retirement fund, and annual performance bonuses. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including access to advanced training and certifications in automation technologies, are available. The role is based in Soweto, Gauteng , offering a hybrid work model that balances on-site collaboration with remote flexibility. Employees can also participate in company-sponsored wellness programs and enjoy a supportive work culture focused on innovation and growth within the automation and manufacturing fields.