Automation Engineer - Robotics and Control Systems

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Professional development

Generous leave

Company vehicle or travel allowance

Exposure to advanced automation

Collaborative culture

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks an Automation Engineer focused on robotics and control systems to design, implement, and optimize automated solutions across production lines.

You will collaborate with engineering, production, and maintenance teams to advance PLC programming, HMI development, and safe commissioning while thriving in a hybrid on-site/remote setup.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering with focus on robotics and control systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Hands-on experience with industrial robots and their programming environments.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, control system architecture, and networking.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and implement PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for automated manufacturing processes.
• Develop and integrate robotic systems into production lines.
• Create and modify control system logic to optimize machine performance and safety.
• Perform system troubleshooting, debugging, and commissioning of new automation projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and project scopes.
• Develop technical documentation including architecture and programming logic.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

HMI development

SCADA systems

Electrical schematics

Troubleshooting

Hybrid work environment

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or related field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI/SCADA software

Robotics programming environments

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing technologies, is seeking an innovative Automation Engineer with expertise in robotics and control systems for their facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and optimizing automated solutions that enhance production efficiency, quality, and safety. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial automation, PLC programming, robotics, and HMI development. You will work closely with engineering, production, and maintenance teams to integrate cutting-edge automation technologies into our operations. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on challenging projects that push the boundaries of industrial automation in a key region of the Northern Cape . The hybrid nature of this role allows for essential on-site collaboration and system integration, balanced with focused work on design and programming. We are looking for a creative and technically adept engineer who can translate complex operational needs into robust and scalable automated systems. Your contributions will be vital in modernizing our manufacturing processes and maintaining our competitive edge. The successful candidate will possess excellent problem-solving skills, a keen understanding of control system architecture, and the ability to manage projects from conception through to commissioning. We value a proactive approach to identifying and implementing innovative automation solutions that deliver tangible business benefits. The scope includes integrating various robotic platforms and advanced control logic.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and implement PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for automated manufacturing processes.
• Develop and integrate robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) into production lines.
• Create and modify control system logic to optimize machine performance and ensure safety.
• Perform system troubleshooting, debugging, and commissioning of new automation projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and project scopes.
• Develop technical documentation, including control system architecture, programming logic, and operating manuals.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology, robotics, and control systems.
• Conduct training for operators and maintenance personnel on automated systems.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations for automated equipment.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of automation strategies and implementation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering, with a focus on robotics and control systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Hands-on experience with industrial robots and their programming environments.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, control system architecture, and networking protocols.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage projects and work effectively in a hybrid environment.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Familiarity with safety standards for industrial automation.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Upington, Northern Cape , and comfortable with a hybrid work arrangement.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and skills.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced certifications and training.
• Generous annual leave and flexible working arrangements.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance for on-site work.
• Exposure to state-of-the-art automation projects.
• Collaborative and innovative work culture.