Automation Engineer - Robotics & PLC Programming

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 720,000 - 980,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonuses

Health insurance and retirement plan

Paid time off and professional dev.

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer in Stellenbosch to design, program, and commission PLCs and robotic systems for diverse manufacturing clients. You will lead integration projects, develop HMI/SCADA solutions, and ensure safe, compliant operations with ISO 13849 standards.

The role requires hands-on PLC and robotics experience, strong problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate with clients and internal teams across complex automation projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or computer science, or an equivalent field.
• 5+ years in industrial automation with PLC programming and robot integration.
• Proficient with major PLC platforms and associated software.
• Hands-on experience programming robots from leading manufacturers.
• Solid knowledge of Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus and other protocols.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA tools such as Wonderware, Ignition or WinCC.
• Strong analytical, communication, and team collaboration skills.
• Willingness to travel for project deployment and support.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLCs for industrial applications using ladder, structured text, and function blocks.
• Integrate and program robots (FANUC, KUKA, ABB) for pick-and-place, assembly, welding, and handling.
• Develop HMI/SCADA systems for monitoring and control of processes.
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and perform root-cause analysis on automation issues on-site or remotely.
• Collaborate with clients and project teams to define automation requirements and scope.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance (ISO 13849) across systems.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics, code documentation, and manuals.
• Provide training and ongoing technical support to customers and staff.
• Stay updated with automation advances, robotics, and PLC platforms.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

HMI/SCADA development

Industrial communication

Team collaboration

Travel readiness

Education

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

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix

Wonderware

Ignition

WinCC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge technology solutions provider for the manufacturing sector, is seeking an accomplished Automation Engineer specializing in Robotics and PLC Programming for their operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is integral to designing, implementing, and commissioning advanced automation systems that enhance production efficiency and capability for our diverse clientele. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of industrial automation hardware and software, with a proven ability to develop robust PLC logic and integrate robotic systems. This is a dynamic role offering the chance to work on diverse projects and contribute to the technological advancement of various industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) for various industrial applications using ladder logic, structured text, and function block diagrams.
• Integrate and program industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) for tasks such as pick-and-place, assembly, welding, and material handling.
• Develop Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for process monitoring and control.
• Perform system troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis for automation issues, both remotely and on-site.
• Collaborate with clients and internal project teams to define automation requirements and project scope.
• Ensure automation systems meet safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849) and regulatory compliance.
• Create and maintain detailed system documentation, including electrical schematics, programming code, and operating manuals.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and internal staff on automation systems.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology, robotics and PLC platforms.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation, with a strong focus on PLC programming and robot integration.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix) and associated software.
• Hands‑on experience with programming and integrating industrial robots from leading manufacturers.
• Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software packages (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a project‑driven environment.
• Willingness to travel for project implementation and support as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to attract top talent, including performance bonuses and professional development allowances.
• Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and ample paid time off.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, attending industry‑leading training, and career advancement within a rapidly growing technology firm are significant.

This role is based at our facility in scenic Stellenbosch, Western Cape , offering a stimulating work environment and access to world‑class technological resources.