Automation Engineer - Remote Implementation

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive salary

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automation Engineer for a fully remote role focused on designing, developing, and implementing automation systems for manufacturing processes. You will work with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA, program robotics, and perform remote commissioning and troubleshooting from a home office.

A strong control systems background and excellent communication are essential. The role emphasizes collaboration with clients and internal teams, adherence to safety and regulatory standards, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a relevant engineering field.
• Minimum 5 years in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficient in PLC programming across major platforms (SIEMENS, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software such as Wonderware, WinCC, or FactoryTalk View.
• Knowledge of robotics programming and integration; strong electrical and control theory foundations.
• Excellent remote communication and collaboration skills; able to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for industrial projects.
• Program and configure robots, servo drives, and automation hardware.
• Create electrical schematics and control system documentation.
• Conduct remote commissioning and testing of automation systems.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for installed solutions.
• Collaborate with clients and project managers to define requirements and scope.
• Stay updated with advancements in automation technology and adoption.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics programming

Electrical principles

Control theory

Remote collaboration

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics / Control Systems

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley

Mitsubishi PLC

Wonderware

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in providing cutting-edge automation solutions for the manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Automation Engineer. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to design, develop, and implement automation systems from your home office. You will play a critical role in enhancing manufacturing processes through the application of robotics, PLCs, and other automation technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in control systems engineering, a proven ability to design and program automated machinery, and experience with commissioning and troubleshooting. You will collaborate closely with clients and internal project teams, providing remote expertise and support throughout the project lifecycle. This role demands creativity, a problem‑solving mindset, and excellent communication skills to effectively convey complex technical concepts. Our client is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and supportive remote work environment where innovation thrives and employees are empowered to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for industrial automation projects.
• Program and configure robots, servo drives, and other automation hardware.
• Create detailed electrical schematics and control system documentation.
• Conduct remote commissioning and testing of automation systems.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for installed automation solutions.
• Collaborate with clients and project managers to define automation requirements and scope.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology and recommend their adoption.
• Participate in project planning, risk assessment, and resource allocation.
• Ensure automation solutions meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software (e.g., Wonderware, WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Knowledge of robotics programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of electrical principles, control theory, and industrial networking.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts clearly and effectively in a remote setting.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage project timelines remotely.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and the significant advantage of a fully remote work arrangement.
• You will have the opportunity to work on challenging and diverse automation projects, contributing to advancements in manufacturing technology.
• Our client invests in continuous professional development, offering access to online training, certifications, and industry conferences.
• Enjoy the flexibility and autonomy of a remote role, promoting an excellent work‑life balance.
• Join an innovative and growing company that values technical expertise and empowers its employees to drive technological progress.
• We provide the necessary tools and support for you to excel in a remote environment.