Automation Engineer - Remote

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

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Health insurance

Generous leave

Training budget

Remote-first work

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks an innovative Automation Engineer to join a remote-first team. You will design, implement and maintain automated systems that boost manufacturing efficiency and product quality, with a focus on PLC programming, robotics, and industrial control.

This role operates mainly remotely, collaborating across engineering and production to deliver scalable automation solutions. You should hold a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics, have at least four

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency with PLC programming (Siemens/Allen-Bradley) and robotics.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and program PLC systems, HMI interfaces, and robotic cells.
• Implement and optimize automated manufacturing processes for throughput and cost reduction.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for automation equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering and production to define automation requirements.
• Conduct feasibility studies and evaluate new automation technologies.
• Ensure reliability, safety, and efficiency of automated systems.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotic programming

SCADA systems

Industrial networks

Data acquisition

Remote work capability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI/SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an innovative and experienced Automation Engineer to join their fully remote team. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems and processes that enhance manufacturing efficiency and product quality. This role requires a strong understanding of PLC programming, robotics, and industrial control systems, with the ability to troubleshoot complex automation challenges from a distance. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate automation solutions, optimize existing systems, and drive technological advancements within the company's production environments, all managed within a remote-first framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and program PLC systems, HMI interfaces, and robotic cells.
• Implement and optimize automated manufacturing processes for improved throughput and reduced costs.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for automated equipment and systems.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to define automation requirements and specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new automation projects and evaluate new technologies.
• Ensure the reliability, safety, and efficiency of all automated systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and robotic programming.
• Experience with SCADA systems, industrial networks, and data acquisition.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage projects effectively in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary with potential performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous vacation and personal leave policies.
• Budget for professional development, training, and certifications.
• Flexible and fully remote work environment.